Anne Hathaway Reveals Taylor Swift's 'Magical' Gesture That Inspired Her New Film
In a recent interview, actress Anne Hathaway has opened up about the surprising and profound impact that global superstar Taylor Swift had on her latest film project, Mother Mary. The 43-year-old star, who is currently promoting The Devil Wears Prada 2, shared heartfelt details during an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, discussing both the psychological drama and Swift's indirect creative influence.
Taylor Swift as a Creative Angel
When asked about Taylor Swift's connection to the film, Hathaway explained with genuine admiration, "I mean, she was kind of like an angel that I felt like was over our heads all the time." She revealed that director David Lowery is a devoted fan of Swift, drawing significant visual and thematic inspiration from the singer's iconic Reputation Stadium Tour. Hathaway herself looked to Swift's documentary, Miss Americana, particularly its emotional openness and vulnerability.
"And I was influenced by her tour film Miss Americana and how vulnerable she just let herself be," Hathaway stated. She reflected on the stark contrast between a polished public persona and the private reality behind it, adding, "What happens when they are kind of in between moments when they're having a moment of metamorphosis?" Hathaway noted that this transitional space can be "so painful," especially for someone navigating personal change in the public eye.
A Heartfelt Note from the Eras Tour
The story took a magical turn when Hathaway recalled a memorable encounter with Taylor Swift during the singer's Eras Tour. While filming Mother Mary in Germany, Hathaway attended one of Swift's shows and initially doubted her own excitement. "The performer makes the audience feel so loved and she made me feel so loved," Anne said. "And I'm like, 'Oh my God, Annie, you're so cute. You think Taylor Swift is waving at you. You are so adorable.'"
However, the moment became unforgettable when someone tapped her on the shoulder and handed her a note from Swift herself. "Somebody tapped me on the shoulder and they said Taylor wants you to have this and I went, what is happening?" The note read: "I'm so happy you're here, I'm going to be enthusiastically waving at you." Hathaway joked about her reaction, "Oh my God! She is so magical! She did the thing. I was right, I am special."
Deepened Admiration and Film Details
Hathaway expressed that the documentary Miss Americana deepened her admiration for Taylor Swift. "I was already a fan but after that I had so much empathy for her and her humanity and of course her talent," she said. This emotional connection clearly influenced her portrayal in Mother Mary, which follows a global pop star confronting unresolved relationships as she prepares for a comeback performance.
The film, set to be released on April 17, features an impressive ensemble cast including Michaela Coel, Hunter Schafer, Kaia Gerber, Jessica Brown Findlay, FKA Twigs, and Alba Baptista. Hathaway also revealed that she spoke directly with Charli XCX, who contributed original music to the film alongside FKA Twigs and Jack Antonoff.
As Hathaway balances promoting Mother Mary and preparing for The Devil Wears Prada 2, this revelation highlights how Taylor Swift's artistry and personal gestures continue to inspire and resonate across the entertainment industry.
