Actress reflects on unpleasant experience during early career

Oscar-winning actress Anne Hathaway has opened up about a “gross” audition experience from her past, where she was required to kiss 10 men as part of a chemistry test.

In an interview with V Magazine, Hathaway, 41, revealed that the audition took place in the early 2000s, describing it as “a very different time.” She expressed her discomfort with the practice, stating, “It was considered normal to ask an actor to make out with other actors to test for chemistry, which is actually the worst way to do it.”

Despite finding the task unpleasant, Hathaway felt pressured to comply to avoid being labelled “difficult.” She explained, “I was so young and terribly aware how easy it was to lose everything by being labelled ‘difficult’, so I just pretended I was excited and got on with it.”

Hathaway did not disclose the name of the film or the actors involved in the audition. However, she contrasted the experience with her recent casting process for the romantic comedy The Idea of You. In this audition, actors were asked to choose a song that their character would love, leading to a more natural and comfortable interaction.

For her role in The Idea of You, Hathaway plays a 40-year-old single mother who finds herself in an unexpected romance with a 24-year-old boy band singer, portrayed by 29-year-old British actor Nicholas Galitzine.

Reflecting on the chemistry test with Galitzine, Hathaway described it as “just easy” and highlighted the genuine connection they formed during the audition. The relaxed and authentic atmosphere contrasted with her earlier experience, emphasizing the importance of respectful and appropriate casting practices.Anne Hathaway rose to fame with her role in the 2001 Disney hit The Princess Diaries and has since become known for her versatile performances in various films.