Actor Glen Powell recently opened up about the heated speculation surrounding his rumored romance with co-star Sydney Sweeney during the filming and promotion of their 2023 rom-com Anyone But You. The swirling rumors became impossible to ignore, contributing to personal tensions and public drama that unfolded after both actors ended their previous relationships.
Ex-girlfriend Gigi Paris breaks silence
Gigi Paris, Powell’s ex-girlfriend of several years, spoke candidly on the Too Much podcast about the strain the rumors caused. She revealed that during the filming in Australia, she was not allowed near the set and felt sidelined as Powell appeared to lean into the marketing strategy that fuelled dating speculation.
Paris recounted that she even traveled to Australia to confront Powell in person and end their relationship, expressing hurt over how the situation was handled publicly. “I wasn’t allowed anywhere close to the set,” she said, “and I traveled just to look him in the eye and break up with him.” She criticized Powell for not putting an end to the rumors sooner and essentially “playing into the whole plan” to promote the film.
Powell’s response on navigating public narratives
Responding to these events in an interview with GQ, Glen Powell expressed respect for Paris while also acknowledging that breakups bring multiple stories. “I will always have nothing but love for her and respect for her,” he said. Powell discussed the overwhelming spotlight and the chaotic narratives surrounding the film and his personal life, recalling timely advice from Tom Cruise during the filming of Top Gun: Maverick: “It’s going to get really, really loud. It’s your job to just turn the volume down. Just remember you have your hand on that switch.” Powell emphasized learning to control the noise and focus on what matters to him.
The chemistry that fueled the rumors
The romantic tension between Powell and Sweeney on-screen was undeniable and widely noted as a major draw for Anyone But You. Both actors admitted that the rumors helped market the film effectively. Powell said, “The two things that you have to sell a rom-com are fun and chemistry. Sydney and I have a ton of fun together, and we have a ton of effortless chemistry. That’s people wanting what’s on the screen off the screen, and sometimes you just have to lean into it a bit—and it worked wonderfully.” Sweeney described the flirtations and buzz as “fun to give it to ’em,” though she repeatedly denied any affair, emphasizing her commitment to then-fiancé Jonathan Davino.
Friendship and industry reality
Despite the rumors, sources confirm Powell and Sweeney have remained close friends, and her engagement ended for reasons unrelated to their professional chemistry. Powell’s sister Leslie invited Sweeney to her wedding, further reflecting their friendly bond rather than romance. Powell’s mother has also dismissed romantic speculation, describing him as “the kindest person” who values family and friendships deeply.
Powell candidly described the experience as an adjustment, comparing the sudden attention to “walking into a rave out of bed” and gradually figuring out how to dance along. The duo is now poised to continue building their careers, with talks ongoing about a potential sequel to Anyone But You. Meanwhile, Powell focuses on maintaining balance amid fame’s demands while learning to navigate the inevitable noise that surrounds Hollywood relationships.
