Hi again Crescent Community, it’s your designated Pop Culture friend, here to review the fiasco that was the Don’t Worry Darling press tour. I have so much to cover from wild rumors about Wilde, to “spit-gate,” to feuds, and false firings. When you have an all-star cast featuring Florence Pugh, Chris Pine, and Harry Styles, you’re bound to gain media attention. Now, let’s deep dive into the deception, divorces, and drama that unfolded throughout the press tour:
Shia’s Scandal
When the film was first announced in 2020, Shia Lebouf was originally casted to play Jack. But, after many altercations and disagreements with both Florence Pugh and Director Olivia Wilde, he was let go from the film (at least, that’s how Wilde sees it.) Shia on the other hand, believes he quit. Wilde reiterated the point that she made the right decision after FKA Twigs’ lawsuit against him for abuse. In August 2022, the drama continued when videos were leaked of Wilde addressing the situation, having sympathy for Shia, and controversially referring to Pugh as “Miss Flo.” Out of respect for Florence Pugh, I will not address her as such in the article, although I’d like to.
Falling Apart & Falling “In Love”
Following the announcement of separation between Wilde and her long-term Fiance Jason Sudeikis in 2020, it wasn’t long before Wilde rekindled her love life with a romance (or showmance, depending on who you ask) with Styles. Creating even more of a scandal in the media’s eyes, while promoting the film at Las Vegas’ CinemaCon in April 2022, custody papers were delivered to her!
Photo from Metro.co.uk
Florence’s Feud
To the outside world, Pugh and Wilde seemed to be in the midst of a silent, scratching cat-fight throughout the press tour. From crew members during production reporting screaming matches, to Pugh missing out on panels to drink an Aperol Spritz, to her lack of promotional instagram posts, the tension became clear. When in conversation with Stephen Colbert on September 21st 2022, Wilde continuously refers to how much she appreciates Pugh’s talent…not as much her personality or friendship.
Styles’ Spit?
Now, spit-gate was the ultimate scandal that sucked me down the rabbit-hole of the Don’t Worry Darling press tour. Never in a million years could one have imagined the drama that would unfold after a video was caught of Styles supposedly spitting on Pine’s lap during the film festival in Venice. You’ve already seen the video, I’m sure. Only God and Chris Pine know what truly happened.
Psychological Thriller
Did I still rush to see the film in theaters despite the hectic drama being shoved down my throat from every magazine and publication imaginable? Absolutely. And although the movie was deemed rotten by critics, I was excitedly surprised. It was like an amusement park. Fun for you and your girl gang to enjoy for one day, crazy twists and turns, pleasant scenery, and lots of surprises. But, oftentimes, repetitive and occasionally underwhelming. Pugh’s performance was phenomenal but I was less impressed by Styles. There was a brief moment where Styles’ character Jack began to cry and I audibly laughed out loud in the theater. I know. Embarrassing. What was more entertaining? The press tour. What kept me more on my toes? The press tour. I do think that the drama leading up to the movie was the psychological thriller that the movie claimed itself to be.
About Stella Sarett
Stella Sarett is a sophomore writer for the Entertainment section. She is studying Art History & Communications. Her obsession with popular culture and the world of celebrities is apparent whenever you strike up a conversation with her. You can find her walking around Audobon Park or reading a Romance novel at Rue De La Course.
Stella Sarett is a sophomore writer for the Entertainment section. She is studying Art History & Communications. Her obsession with popular culture and the world of celebrities is apparent whenever you strike up a conversation with her. You can find her walking around Audobon Park or reading a Romance novel at Rue De La Course.
