Overview

• In a Sept. 9 GQ cover interview, Powell addressed ex Gigi Paris’ June podcast remarks, saying he has love and respect for her and that she is entitled to her own narrative.
• He recounted Cruise’s counsel to “turn the volume down” on speculation and to rely on his own judgment as his profile grows.
• Powell and Sydney Sweeney have previously acknowledged leaning into romance rumors to market Anyone But You, which earned about $220 million worldwide.
• Paris has said she felt “shattered,” described being “fed to the dogs,” and criticized Powell for not denying the rumors, saying he told her, “This is what I have to do for my job.”
• Most outlets place the breakup in early 2023 during Anyone But You’s rollout, and note this is Powell’s first substantive reply, with some coverage pointing to skeptical online reaction.