Sometimes the biggest celebrity moment is not loud or dramatic. It is soft. Quick. Almost shy.
That is exactly what happened at the BAFTA Film Awards 2026 in London. Cameras were flashing, stars were posing, and then suddenly all eyes shifted. Gracie Abrams leaned in and kissed Paul Mescal on the cheek as they stood arm-in-arm on the red carpet.
It was not a press conference. It was not a carefully planned announcement. But in that small second, the months of rumours finally ended. The couple who had been quietly dating since 2024 were now officially red carpet public.
And honestly, it felt natural.
Did Gracie Abrams and Paul Mescal Confirm Their Relationship?
Yes. And they did it in the most effortless way possible.
The pair attended the BAFTAs together, posing hand-in-hand and smiling for photographers. At one point, Gracie planted a sweet cheek kiss on Paul, sealing the moment. That gesture alone was enough to confirm what fans had suspected for nearly two years.
This marked their first official red carpet debut as a couple. While they had been photographed at the same events before, they had never walked a major awards carpet together like this.
It was clear. They are together. No hiding anymore.
What Happened at the BAFTA Awards 2026?
The night was already important for Paul Mescal. He was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role as William Shakespeare in Hamnet. This nomination marked his third BAFTA nod, following recognition for Aftersun in 2023 and All of Us Strangers in 2024.
Some quick highlights from the evening:
- Paul wore a classic black Prada suit with a white shirt.
- Gracie stunned in a delicate Chanel floral gown from Matthieu Blazy’s pre-fall 2026 collection.
- They walked arm-in-arm.
- Gracie kissed him on the cheek in front of photographers.
- Hamnet received 11 nominations, becoming the most-nominated film directed by a woman this year.
It was also a big fashion moment. Their coordinated black-and-romantic look got praise from fans and fashion watchers online.
The couple quickly became one of the most photographed pairs of the night.
Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams at the BAFTAs. pic.twitter.com/RatHjYE3FD
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) February 22, 2026
Gracie Abrams and Paul Mescal Relationship Timeline From 2024 to 2026
Fans love a timeline, so here’s how their love story slowly unfolded.
June 2024 – First Spotting
The first spark happened when they were seen at a cosy dinner. Photos showed Paul gently cupping Gracie’s face. Around the same time, fans wondered if her song Normal Thing subtly referenced his Normal People role. Nothing was confirmed, but speculation started.
August 2024 – London Kisses
They were photographed again in London, holding hands. Onlookers said they looked very close and were “kissing a lot.” Sources described it as early but real.
September 2024 – Public Dating
They stepped out hand-in-hand on a relaxed walk. It was their first clear public signal that they were more than friends.
October 2024 – Eras Tour Support
Paul supported Gracie when she opened for Taylor Swift at the Eras Tour in Miami. He was seen in the VIP section, cheering her on. Fans loved seeing him support her career openly.
November 2024 – Premiere Appearances
Gracie attended the Gladiator II after-party with Paul. They later showed up at a Saturday Night Live after-party as well. These were small but meaningful public appearances together.
February 2025 – Subtle Interview Hints
In an interview with Cosmopolitan, Gracie spoke about love feeling like “home” and being with someone where you do not have to perform. She did not say his name, but many believed she was talking about Paul.
May 2025 – Cannes Support
She attended The History of Sound premiere at the Cannes Film Festival to support him. Still no red carpet debut, but strong quiet support.
June 2025 – Festival Date and Instagram Official
They were seen enjoying Olivia Rodrigo’s set at a music festival. Gracie shared a clip of herself sitting on Paul’s shoulders while music played. Soon after, she posted photos filled with heart emojis, making it social media official.
Paul also became slightly more open in interviews but made it clear he wanted to protect their privacy.
January 2026 – “Also I Love Him Surprise”
During Hamnet promotions, Gracie shared a photo of Paul and wrote, “Also I love him surprise.” It was playful, simple, and very telling.
And now, the BAFTA red carpet moment has fully confirmed it.
A Second Public Outing Before BAFTA
Interestingly, BAFTA was not the first time they stepped out publicly this month.
They were seen at a London screening event for Man on the Run, posing alongside Sir Paul McCartney. They wore matching caps and looked relaxed. That appearance ended weeks of renewed speculation.
But the BAFTA red carpet is what truly made it official.
What Makes Gracie Abrams and Paul Mescal’s Relationship So Special
Both Gracie and Paul are known for being private. They focus on their craft more than publicity.
Paul has spoken about wanting to protect what feels precious in his life. In a recent interview, when asked about going public, he hesitated and said he prefers to keep some things just for himself.
He also shared that he hopes to have a family one day. Not immediately, but someday. That small detail gave fans a glimpse into his future dreams.
Gracie, on the other hand, writes emotional songs that feel like diary pages. Seeing her happy in real life makes fans feel protective and proud.
It does not feel like a PR relationship. It feels calm. Real.
Inside the Lives of Gracie Abrams and Paul Mescal
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Paul previously dated Phoebe Bridgers from 2020 to 2022.
Gracie previously dated producer Blake Slatkin until 2022.
Both have grown professionally and personally since those relationships.
Gracie is also the daughter of filmmaker J.J. Abrams and activist Katie McGrath, though she has built her music career on her own merit.
Why Gracie Abrams and Paul Mescal Are the Internet’s New Favorite Couple
It is not just about a kiss.
It is about the slow build. The quiet support. The pub dates in North London. The festival clips. The protective interviews.
For months, they attended the same events but avoided walking carpets together. That made the BAFTA debut feel earned, almost like a chapter turning.
Social media reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Many fans are calling them a “power couple,” but in a low-key way.
No drama. Just two talented people supporting each other.
How Gracie Abrams and Paul Mescal Turned Rumours Into Reality
Sometimes love stories in Hollywood feel rushed or loud. This one did not.
From quiet dinners to festival clips to a soft cheek kiss at one of the biggest film events of the year, their journey unfolded slowly.
And maybe that is why people care so much.
It feels real. A little shy. A little protective. And now, finally, public.
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Source(Image / Thumbnail): www.aol.co.uk
