Iconic Hollywood Romances that Started On Screen

Hollywood is known for its captivating love stories, both on and off the screen. It's not uncommon for actors to develop genuine connections while immersed in the world of their characters. When on-screen chemistry translates into real-life romance, it adds an extra layer of excitement for audiences. This article delves into some of the most iconic Hollywood love stories that blossomed on set, exploring the circumstances that brought these couples together and the trajectories of their relationships.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie: Mr. and Mrs. Smith
The romance between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, famously known as "Brangelina," began amidst the action and intrigue of the film *Mr. and Mrs. Smith*. Although their relationship wasn't officially confirmed until after filming wrapped, rumors swirled around the set. Angelina Jolie reflected on their connection in a 2006 Vogue interview, explaining, "Because of the film, we ended up being brought together to do all these crazy things, and I think we found this strange friendship and partnership that kind of just suddenly happened... I think a few months in I realised, 'God, I can't wait to get to work.". She further elaborated on their teamwork and the joy they found in each other's company. *Mr. and Mrs. Smith* is available for streaming on Prime Video.
Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth: The Last Song
Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth's love story began on the set of *The Last Song*, where they portrayed teenage lovers. The couple got engaged in 2012 but later finalized their divorce in January 2020. Miley opened up about their split on the Howard Stern show, admitting, "Sometimes you miss people more than others, and sometimes, things get easier. Time kind of heals all, but that was at a time where I felt really strong. And then some days I don’t." *The Last Song* can be streamed on Disney+.
Zendaya and Tom Holland: Spider-Man: Homecoming
Zendaya and Tom Holland, the stars of *Spider-Man: Homecoming*, began their on-screen journey together in 2016. While they maintain a relatively private relationship, Zendaya expressed her affection for Tom in an Instagram post featuring The Hollywood Reporter cover, writing, "Amidst all the chaos and sadness…this one good thing did happen to me today. Honored to share it with the very best…Spider-Man himself." Recently, Zendaya was seen sporting a diamond ring at the Golden Globes in January 2025, sparking engagement rumors. *Spider-Man: Homecoming* is available on Disney+.
Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes: The Place Beyond the Pines
Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes played former lovers in *The Place Beyond the Pines*, their connection extending far beyond the screen. The couple now shares two daughters and resides in Notting Hill, London. Ryan praised Eva's mothering abilities in an interview with GQ, stating, "Eva’s the dream mother, and they’re dream babies, and it’s like a dream that I’m having right now. I’m dreaming it all." *The Place Beyond the Pines* can be streamed on Apple TV+.
Jenna Dewan and Channing Tatum: Step Up
Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan's romance ignited on the set of *Step Up* in 2005, where they shared their first on-screen kiss as Tyler Gage and Nora Clark. Channing revealed in a 2013 interview with ELLE that he was initially hesitant to commit, having just ended a long-term relationship. However, after encouragement from a friend, he showed up at Jenna's hotel room wearing a sombrero, marking the beginning of their relationship. *Step Up* is available for streaming on Prime Video.
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson: Bosom Buddies
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson's enduring love story began on the set of *Bosom Buddies* in 1981. Although Tom was married at the time, their connection was undeniable. After his divorce in 1987, the pair became a couple and married the following year, solidifying their place as one of Hollywood's most beloved couples.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck: Gigli
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, famously known as "Bennifer," first fell in love on the set of *Gigli* in 2001, leading to an engagement the following year. Despite separating in 2003, their relationship rekindled in July 2022, culminating in marriage. However, they have reportedly called it quits for the second time. *Gigli* is available on Prime Video.
Jessica Alba and Cash Warren: Fantastic Four
While Jessica Alba and Cash Warren weren't cast as lovers in *Fantastic Four*, their paths crossed on set, with Cash working as a production assistant and Jessica playing Susan Storm. The couple married in May 2008 and welcomed three children together. Sadly, in January 2025, the pair announced their divorce after 17 years of marriage. *Fantastic Four* can be streamed on Disney+.
Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied: Black Swan
Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied met on the set of *Black Swan* in 2009, where Natalie starred as the lead and Benjamin served as a dancer and choreographer. The couple married in 2012 and have two children together. After 11 years of marriage, Natalie filed for divorce in July 2023. *Black Swan* is available on Disney+.
Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell: Overboard
Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell's relationship stands as a testament to enduring love in Hollywood. They met on the set of *Overboard* in 1987, where Goldie played Joanna Stayton and Kurt played Dean Proffitt, having first met way back in 1966 whilst filming The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band. They have one child together, along with two children from previous relationships. *Overboard* is available on Prime Video.