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The 2025 Cannes Film Festival was more than just masterful cinema and haute couture—it was a playground for surprise romances, headline-making reunions, and the sort of surprise appearances that lit social media ablaze. Here’s your ultimate guide to the most scandalous scoop from the Croisette this year.

Red Carpet Romance: Josh O’Connor & Alison Oliver

One of the biggest rumors on the Riviera? The speculated romance between The Crown’s Josh O’Connor and Irish actress Alison Oliver.

The couple made a sparkling double-act appearance together at the premiere of The Mastermind, with Alison holding tight to Josh’s arm and both exchanging knowing grins for the cameras.

Their on-screen chemistry was palpable, and fans were quick to spot that Josh’s parents were also in attendance—could this be the one?

The couple hasn’t officially confirmed their relationship, but after being spotted together at weddings in Italy and even in New York over the past year, Cannes may have just been their soft launch as Hollywood’s newest “It” couple.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Statement on Sindoor

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, royalty of Cannes herself, was making headlines not for her gorgeous saree alone but for that stunning, bright sindoor, paying tribute to Operation Sindoor and solidarity, or deliberately sneaking in a message to end pesky divorce rumors over Abhishek Bachchan?

Social media went wild with speculations, but one thing’s certain: Aishwarya knows how to make headlines, set the record straight, and speak volumes without uttering a single word.

Rihanna & A$AP Rocky: Power Couple Goals

If anyone is the king of swiping the limelight, it’s Rihanna. Pop star and fashion influencer Rihanna walked onto the red carpet alongside A$AP Rocky, as chic as ever—she in her blue Alaïa asymmetrical dress, he in his sleek Saint Laurent suit.

There was undeniable chemistry, and with Rihanna’s pregnancy glow illuminating the red carpet, the two were immediately one of the fest’s hottest couples.

Surprise! Ezra Miller Returns

In a surprise no one anticipated, Ezra Miller attended the Cannes Film Festival, showing support for director Lynne Ramsay’s latest film. Dressed in a burgundy tuxedo and beret, Ezra remained enigmatic by avoiding the photo line, but their attendance was all it took to reignite rumors of their future in Hollywood. Following a series of scandals, Cannes was Ezra’s first tentative return to the limelight.

Tom Cruise: Hollywood’s Still Got It

At 62, Tom Cruise demonstrated he’s got it. He dazzled fans with a chic daytime sighting—imagine a vibrant red shirt, coordinating pants, and classic aviators—before wowing on the red carpet in entrance-worthy style for the new Mission: Impossible premiere.

As his theme played in with a live orchestra, Tom’s comeback was movie magic and a reminder that he’s Hollywood’s greatest showman.

Rule Breakers & Fashion Rebels

Cannes 2025 had its fashion drama too. Organizers attempted to curb “puffy dresses” and “nudity-ish” ensembles, but Heidi Klum and Stella Maxwell weren’t about to oblige. Heidi paraded in a showy pink frock with a dramatic train, defying the new ban and reminding everyone that the Cannes red carpet is for making statements, not conforming to dress codes.

Alia Bhatt’s Debut: A Double Fashion Moment

Bollywood star Alia Bhatt finally made her Cannes debut, delivering not one but two unforgettable looks. She dazzled in a bespoke Gucci saree-style drape for the closing ceremony, then dazzled in a midnight navy Armani Privé gown. Her entrance wasn’t only a fashion moment—it was a statement that a new international style icon has arrived.

Final Thoughts

From statement accessories and clandestine couples to comebacks and rule-breaking glamour, Cannes 2025 had it all: drama, romance, and surprise. Until next year, keep your eyes on the stars—because at Cannes, the best stories are always those you don’t see coming.