Hollywood Duo Steps Out at BFI London Film Festival for “Is This Thing On?” Premiere
London, England – Actor Will Arnett, 55, and supermodel Carolyn Murphy, 51, officially stepped into the spotlight as a couple on Tuesday, October 14, making their highly anticipated red carpet debut at the BFI London Film Festival. The elegant pair graced The Royal Festival Hall for the premiere of Arnett’s latest film, Is This Thing On?, solidifying their budding relationship months after initial sightings sparked romance rumors.
The couple presented a picture of coordinated sophistication. Arnett, known for his roles in BoJack Horseman and Arrested Development, sported a tailored tan suit over a sharp black button-down shirt. By his side, Murphy, a renowned Vogue cover model and environmental advocate, exuded classic glamour in a shoulder-baring, long-sleeved black Alberta Ferretti cocktail dress, complemented by a black clutch purse, shimmering silver chandelier earrings, and sleek black pumps.
Their appearance marks a significant step for the duo, whose relationship was first confirmed by PEOPLE magazine on September 5. Prior to their red carpet moment in London, Arnett and Murphy had been seen together at several high-profile events, offering glimpses into their developing connection.
A Timeline of Their Budding Romance
The earliest public sighting of the pair occurred in late August in London’s West End, where they attended a performance of Sean Hayes’ play, Good Night, Oscar. Hayes himself shared a backstage photo on Instagram, featuring the smiling trio alongside his husband, Scott Icenogle, with the affectionate caption, “Another recent surprise visit from one of the greats. Love you, Willie.” In the image, Murphy was seen with her hand gently resting on Arnett’s chest, his arm wrapped around her back – a tender moment that hinted at their growing closeness.
Just weeks later, on September 12, the couple was spotted on a date night during New York Fashion Week. Cameras captured them attending a presentation for designer Jenni Kayne in the chic SoHo neighborhood of New York City. Murphy opted for an all-black ensemble accessorized with a vibrant cheetah-print purse and black flats, while Arnett maintained a more casual look in denim jeans, a white short-sleeved T-shirt, and a denim jacket.
Personal Lives and New Beginnings
Both Arnett and Murphy bring storied personal lives to their new chapter. Arnett quietly ended his five-year relationship with Alessandra Brawn in late 2024. They share a 5-year-old son, Denny, and reportedly “remain committed co-parents.” Arnett is also father to sons Archie, 16, and Abel, 15, from his previous marriage to comedian and actress Amy Poehler. Murphy, a mother herself, shares 24-year-old daughter Dylan Blue with Pavel Bureslavsky and was previously married to Jake Schroeder from 1999 to 2002.
About “Is This Thing On?”
The occasion for their red carpet debut, Is This Thing On?, features Arnett alongside Laura Dern, portraying a couple on the brink of divorce. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Andra Day, Christine Ebersole, Ciarán Hinds, Sean Hayes, Scott Icenogle, Peyton Manning, and Amy Sedaris, with Bradley Cooper taking on both directing and starring roles. The film first premiered at the New York Film Festival on October 10 and is set to open in select theaters on December 19.
