Paul Mescal girlfriend? It’s one thing that gets the internet more excited than his latest pair of short shorts. The 28-year-old Irish actor became everyone’s “It Boy” following his role as Connell Waldron in the hit series Normal People, an adaptation of the acclaimed 2018 Sally Rooney novel. Mescal’s on-screen romance with co-star Daisy Edgar-Jones, who played Marianne Sheridan, sparked the beginning of the public’s interest in his love life. This curiosity is, arguably, only heightened by his penchant for privacy, which extends to Paul Mescal’s private Instagram account.
Below, is a timeline of his dating history—from high-profile girlfriends to romance rumours and everything in between.
Daisy Edgar-Jones, 2020
Despite the on-screen chemistry between Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal in Normal People—which had us all re-evaluating our own relationships—they’ve always insisted their bond is purely platonic. However, their Halloween costumes in 2022—a Fleabag-themed duo—ignited rumours that set the gossip mill spinning. Adding fuel to the fire was a viral photo from the 2022 Met Gala, where Paul Mescal appeared to be in a trance, gazing intently at Edgar-Jones while posing with his then-girlfriend Phoebe Bridgers. Were there any romantic feelings behind this look? Only the cosmos could tell.
India Mullen, 2020
From one co-star to another, Mescal was linked to Irish actress India Mullen shortly after the release of Normal People where she played the role of Peggy. The two were spotted together frequently in London, though their interactions never seemed anything more than friendly.
Sophie Turner, 2021
In early 2021, romance rumours swirled among fans about Paul Mescal and English-American actress Sophie Turner being spotted together. However, the speculation quickly died down as neither party nor any sources confirmed the claims.
Phoebe Bridgers, 2020-2022 (Paul Mescal Girlfriend)
Paul Mescal and Phoebe Bridgers’ relationship reads like a modern love story straight from the books. It started with a serendipitous tweet from Bridgers in early 2020, where she gushed about her admiration for Normal People. Their connection quickly evolved into one of pop culture’s most loved pairings.
The couple made their grand debut at the 2021 LACMA Art + Film Gala, then attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in coordinated outfits. The most memorable official outing was at the 2022 Met Gala, where Mescal’s intense gaze at Edgar-Jones while posing with his then-girlfriend became an internet sensation, sparking numerous memes.
As engagement rumours swirled, fuelled by their public displays of affection and mutual support (Mescal was often spotted in the crowds at Bridges’ shows), they kept their personal lives mostly private. However it was in late 2022 that they reportedly parted ways. The split was amicable, with both stars claiming to want to focus on their careers. Here’s hoping the memes didn’t have anything to do with it.
Emma Watson, 2023
Gone are the days of Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley’s love affair, as in 2023, rumours of a new magic emerged between British actress Emma Watson and Paul Mescal, who reportedly met through mutual friends in the industry. If there was a romance, it was kept under an invisible cloak, with neither Mescal nor Watson confirming or denying the relationship.
Angelina Jolie, 2023
Hollywood’s golden age meets Gen Z’s dreamboat? The talk surrounding Paul Mescal and Angelina Jolie as a potential item set the celebrity world abuzz. Mescal and Jolie, the iconic actress and humanitarian, first sparked speculation during a series of high-profile events they attended together. Their apparent chemistry was noted at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, where they were spotted engaging in intimate conversations. Whether a fleeting spark or a burgeoning romance, the pairing of Mescal’s fresh, rising talent with Jolie’s seasoned glamour was not on our 2023 bingo card.
Sophie Wilde, 2024
Given Mescal’s tendency to date actresses, it was only a matter of time before one of them hailed from Australian soil. Rumours began swirling when Mescal and Sophie Wilde were reportedly seen kissing at the BAFTA Awards after-party in London. Unfortunately, there’s no photographic proof. Nevertheless, we’re excited that an Aussie might have caught his eye.
Ayo Edebiri, 2024
It was a Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all who celebrate the Irish charm of Mr. Mescal. The American actress and “The Bear” star, Ayo Edebiri, set the internet abuzz when she posted a picture of herself laughing with Mescal on Instagram. This isn’t the first time they’ve been seen together; over the past year, they’ve often appeared very friendly, frequently posing for photos at official events. While a soft-launch relationship might be a possibility, it’s more likely that the pair are simply good friends or, hopefully, collaborating on a new project.
Natalie Portman, 2024
Gracie Abrams, 2024
Paul Mescal and TikTok star Gracie Abrams recently caused a stir when they were spotted together at London’s BRAT restaurant in June 2024. The photograph that went viral? Mescal’s reaching out to touch Abrams’ cheek, which sparked a flurry of romance rumours Adding fuel to the speculation, it’s been reported that the pair followed up with a second date, exploring the shops on London’s Bond Street. As the story continues to develop, we’ll be watching closely for any new updates.
