Olivia Wilde has described it as a “miracle” that the intense public scrutiny over her relationship with Harry Styles never affected their connection. The 42-year-old actress and director dated the former One Direction star, now 32, for nearly two years before their split at the end of 2022.
Rare Comments on Relationship
Speaking on the Call Her Daddy podcast, Wilde addressed the backlash for the first time, telling host Alex Cooper: “Oh man, it really did upset people.” She continued: “It was crazy. I don’t know how much I understand it yet. I understand it had very little to do with me. People were f****** p***ed. I think it also had a lot to do with the kind of parasocial relationship people have with him which is a burden that is very weighty and not something I envy. He carries it with grace.”
A 'Sweet and Beautiful' Bond
Wilde emphasized that the negativity never penetrated their private world: “I think that is an enormous responsibility that all those stars have to carry, and it’s impossible. It’s wild because we had the loveliest relationship, so sweet and beautiful, and really very domestic and lovely. I think we existed in this little bubble, and the judgment never got in, which was a miracle, a testament to us making that happen. I think that people were mad. It was almost like the happiness made them mad.”
Previous Comments and Age Gap
During their relationship, Wilde told Vogue: “I’m happier than I’ve ever been. And I’m healthier than I’ve ever been, and it’s just wonderful to feel that.” Of the age-gap criticism, she said: “It’s obviously really tempting to correct a false narrative. But I think what you realise is that when you’re really happy, it doesn’t matter what strangers think about you. All that matters to you is what’s real, and what you love, and who you love.”
Styles' Current Relationship
In recent months, Styles has been linked to actress Zoe Kravitz, 37, with engagement rumors swirling. Kravitz told British Vogue she is “aware” of the public discussion but finds it “overwhelming.” She said: “I’m aware it’s happening. I’m aware of when it’s happening, like when there are eight people outside my house, that’s super uncomfortable. I’m aware of all the ingredients that create the thing we’re talking about. But that doesn’t mean you’re necessarily OK with it.”
PA has contacted representatives for Harry Styles for comment.
