Taylor Swift’s “Patient Zero” has secured a second consecutive week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, extending the chart success of her latest release. The song debuted at the top of the chart and marks Swift’s 16th career No. 1 hit. Released on September 25 as one of four new tracks on The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore, the song has maintained its position at the summit, reinforcing Swift’s continued commercial strength.
Taylor Swift’s Patient Zero Keeps Ella Langley at No. 2
“Patient Zero” initially claimed the No. 1 position by ending Ella Langley’s historic run with “Choosin’ Texas,” which spent a record 24 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100. Langley’s hit remains at No. 2 on the latest chart.
Swift’s latest achievement also comes with a strong showing from her expanded album. Three other new tracks, “Cleveland!,” “Babylon” and “Pink Clouding,” entered the Hot 100’s top five alongside “Patient Zero” during their debut week. The four-track surge demonstrated the reach of the album’s expanded edition, with Swift occupying four of the chart’s top five positions.
FAQs
Is Taylor Swift’s Patient Zero still No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100?
Yes. “Patient Zero” holds the No. 1 position for a second consecutive week on the Billboard Hot 100 chart dated October 17, 2026.
How many No. 1 hits does Taylor Swift have?
Taylor Swift has 16 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, placing her third behind The Beatles, with 20, and Mariah Carey, with 19.
Which album features Patient Zero?
“Patient Zero” appears on The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore, the expanded edition of Swift’s 2025 album The Life of a Showgirl, released on September 25, 2026.
Who was No. 1 before Taylor Swift’s Patient Zero?
Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” held the No. 1 spot before “Patient Zero” debuted at the top, ending Langley’s record-setting 24-week run.
What other Taylor Swift songs entered the Billboard Hot 100 top five?
“Cleveland!,” “Babylon” and “Pink Clouding” joined “Patient Zero” in the top five during their debut week.
Can Patient Zero remain No. 1 for another week?
It is possible, but its next position will depend on the song’s performance across streaming, radio airplay and sales in the following chart-tracking period.
Taylor Swift Adds Another No. 1 to Her Record
With “Patient Zero,” Swift has collected 16 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, placing her third among artists with the most chart-toppers. The Beatles lead with 20, followed by Mariah Carey with 19. The song’s second week at No. 1 adds to Swift’s already extensive chart record. Its performance also keeps attention on The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore, which helped bring the new tracks to a wide audience.
For Swift, the latest chart result is another major milestone. Whether “Patient Zero” can extend its reign beyond two weeks will be the next development to watch.
