Lily James has opened up about the lengths she went to in preparing for her role as Bumble and Tinder founder Whitney Wolfe Herd in the new biopic Swiped. Speaking at the London premiere, the 36-year-old actress revealed she used a friend's phone to go incognito on dating apps as part of her 'extensive' research.
James, known for her role in Downton Abbey, said she found Wolfe Herd's story inspiring. 'No matter what happens, no matter what hard times you hit, it's what you do with it,' she told HELLO!. 'She's created real change and had real impact. An individual can really shift and shape culture.'
The film follows Wolfe Herd's journey in the male-dominated tech industry, culminating in her becoming the youngest self-made female billionaire. James said she related to the pressures of working in a high-stakes environment, noting that 'sadly, it's not a singular experience' for women.
Director Rachel Lee Goldenberg described the film as an 'inspirational, feminist story' about navigating a male-dominated workplace. Writer Bill Parker added that the film aims to spark conversations about workplace behaviour, with Goldenberg emphasising the importance of discussing real experiences rather than offering neat resolutions.
Myha'la, who plays Whitney's best friend Tisha, highlighted the film's message of justice for minorities and women. 'There are ways, and never give up on yourself,' she said, adding: 'And bring your friends along!'
