Ben Afleck and Gwyneth Paltrow (Photo by Ke.Mazur/WireImage)
Gwyneth Paltrow’s forthcoming biography, penned by bestselling British author Amy Odell, has already stirred intrigue and speculation ahead of its release. Set to hit Australian shelves on August 5, Gwyneth: The Biography promises an unfiltered look into the life of the Hollywood A-lister, revealing intimate details of her past relationships, including a candid account of her romance with actor Ben Affleck.
According to Odell, Paltrow shared with her makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin a particular sexual preference she enjoyed with Affleck. As reported by Page Six, Odell writes, “It was the ribald side of her that her friends knew well but that the public didn’t see.” Paltrow reportedly confided that she loved when Affleck engaged in a specific act, showcasing a side of her personality that contrasts with her earlier public image.
The Paltrow-Affleck Romance
Paltrow and Affleck, both now 52, were romantically linked from 1997 to 2000. Their relationship, marked by intense chemistry, eventually succumbed to Affleck’s personal struggles. Odell’s biography highlights Affleck’s battles with alcoholism and gambling, which reportedly strained their bond. “Their physical chemistry couldn’t overcome his self-destructive impulses, which may have even included cheating on her,” Odell notes.
Sources close to the couple revealed to Odell that Affleck’s lack of affection and preference for video games over quality time with Paltrow were additional factors contributing to their breakup. The couple’s split is believed to have been influenced by these challenges, despite their initial connection.
Other High-Profile Relationships
Beyond Affleck, Paltrow’s romantic history includes notable figures such as Brad Pitt and her ex-husband Chris Martin of Coldplay, with whom she shares two children, Apple and Moses. Her relationships have often been in the public eye, reflecting her status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Paltrow’s Evolving Public Persona
While Paltrow initially cultivated an image of purity and innocence, her entrepreneurial ventures, particularly through her Goop wellness brand, have embraced a more open exploration of sexuality. In 2020, Goop famously released a candle titled “This Smells Like My Vagina,” which sold out rapidly, highlighting Paltrow’s willingness to challenge societal norms.
In a 2016 interview with Self, Paltrow emphasized the importance of maintaining her sexuality amidst her roles as a mother and businesswoman. “We have this idea that you can’t be a mother and a businesswoman and like to have sex!” she remarked, advocating for the integration of intelligence and sexuality in women’s lives.
“Like, ‘Gwyneth has sex? Really?’ It doesn’t seem to go together. But I think it’s important, as mothers and as women contributing to society in whatever way we each are, that our true sexuality doesn’t get lost or put aside,” Paltrow added.
Impact and Future Projects
Paltrow’s candidness about her personal life and sexuality has sparked conversations about women’s roles and identities in contemporary society. Her Netflix series Sex, Love & Goop, launched in 2021, further explores these themes, following couples seeking to rejuvenate their relationships.
The forthcoming biography is expected to offer fans and readers a deeper understanding of Paltrow’s journey, both personal and professional. As the release date approaches, anticipation builds around the revelations and insights it promises to deliver.
