UMVA has learned that Olivia Wilde has opened up about her highly scrutinized relationship with Harry Styles, revealing the singer handled the burden of parasocial relationships formed by some fans with remarkable grace.
The American director, 42, dated the former One Direction star, 32, for nearly two years before their breakup at the end of 2022. Wilde shared her reflections on their relationship in a recent interview, offering a glimpse into the challenges they faced.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Wilde acknowledged that their age-gap relationship sparked intense backlash, but revealed it didn't affect them. She did, however, admit that she knew "it really did upset people," recalling that "it was crazy" and that people were "f*ing p*ed."
Wilde praised her ex-partner, saying he carried the weight of his fans' expectations with ease. She described this burden as "enormous" and "not something I envy," highlighting the immense responsibility that comes with being a celebrity.
The pair met on the set of Wilde's film Don't Worry Darling, which was marred by behind-the-scenes drama. Despite the challenges they faced, Wilde described their relationship as "so, so sweet and beautiful" and "really very domestic and kind and lovely."
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Wilde also referenced the public criticism they faced, saying it was a "miracle" that it never affected her relationship with Styles. She likened their experience to being in a "little bubble," shielded from the judgment and chaos outside.
Wilde shared that during their relationship, she experienced a lot of "real joy and love and happiness." She contrasted their private life with the public madness, saying it was "very far from it and actually kind of wholesome and sweet."
The couple's relationship was subject to intense media scrutiny, particularly during their viral press tour for Don't Worry Darling. Wilde recalled the experience, saying it was like being in a calm space, only to be confronted with chaos when stepping outside.
Recently, Styles has sparked engagement rumors with American actress Zoe Kravitz, 37, after being spotted together in August last year. Wilde's reflections on her past relationship offer a unique glimpse into the challenges of dating in the public eye.
