Gillian Anderson has captivated audiences for decades, not only with her iconic acting roles but also with her refreshingly honest and unapologetic approach to her personal life. The acclaimed actress, known for her empowering voice and formidable talent, is now set to star in a powerful new romantic drama for Netflix and Channel 4.
What is Gillian Anderson's new Netflix project?
Anderson's latest venture is Trespasses, an adaptation of Louise Kennedy's celebrated novel. The series is scheduled to air on 9 November and transports viewers to 1975 Northern Ireland, during the period of conflict known as the Troubles. Set in Holywood, County Down, just miles from Belfast, the narrative centres on a cross-community love affair.
Gillian Anderson takes on the role of Gina, the mother of Cushla, a young Catholic school teacher portrayed by Lola Petticrew. To make ends meet, Cushla works in her family's pub, a gathering spot for locals and soldiers. It is there she encounters and falls for a Protestant lawyer, igniting a forbidden romance.
Reflecting on the project's themes, Anderson shared with BBC News NI her observations on the enduring trauma in Northern Ireland. "What I was surprised at this last time was the degree to which the trauma is still under the surface [in Northern Ireland], all the time," she revealed. "And so it is so much a part of the character of the place, too. Coming as an outsider it's shocking because one's told that it's part of the past, but it's clear that it's on the tip of everyone's tongues still today."
A look at Gillian Anderson's fascinating love life
Anderson's off-screen romances have been as compelling as her on-screen characters. Her journey includes two marriages and several significant relationships.
Her first husband was Clyde Klotz, an assistant art director she met on the set of The X-Files. They married in a Buddhist ceremony in Hawaii on 1 January 1994. Anderson once remarked, "I got pregnant on my wedding night. How old-fashioned is that?" Their daughter, Piper, was born that same year, but the couple divorced in 1997.
Following her divorce, Anderson dated a series of notable figures, including British actor Adrian Hughes and Hollywood producer Randy Stone, who was previously linked to Barbara Streisand. She also had relationships with actor Rod Rowland and restaurateur Keith McNally.
Her second marriage was to filmmaker Julian Ozanne in 2004. Unfortunately, this union lasted just over a year before the couple parted ways.
Long-term relationships and famous connections
After her second marriage ended, Anderson began a relationship with businessman Mark Griffiths, who had previously been linked to Spice Girl Geri Halliwell. This was a significant chapter in her life, as the couple had two sons together, born in 2006 and 2008.
Speaking to the Mirror at the time, Anderson praised Griffiths, saying, "Mark is one of the kindest people I have ever met. He has a very good head on his shoulders and part of me was ready to be grounded. I recognised that in him. That is exactly what has taken place - a grounding for all of us. And really paying attention to what is precious." They separated in 2012 after six years together.
Anderson was also romantically linked to Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, adding another high-profile name to her list of partners, which includes individuals connected to other celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow.
Who is Gillian Anderson dating now?
Anderson's most recent public relationship was with acclaimed screenwriter Peter Morgan, creator of The Crown. The couple, first linked in 2016, had an unconventional arrangement that seemed to work well for them.
Anderson explained their dynamic to The Guardian, stating, "My partner and I don't live together. If we did, that would be the end of us. It works so well as it is and it feels so special when we do come together."
Their relationship experienced several breakups and reconciliations. They initially split in 2020, and Morgan was briefly reported to be with his friend Jemma Goldsmith. However, a month later, Anderson and Morgan were rumoured to have rekindled their romance. While there was speculation of another reconciliation in April 2023, this was never officially confirmed, and Gillian Anderson is currently believed to be single.
Through it all, Anderson continues to champion female empowerment, both through her roles and her candid public persona, making her a beloved and enduring figure in entertainment.
