It was just over a year ago when we were all in shock and dismay at the sudden passing of one of the most iconic pop culture figures of all time. Gone too soon was the beloved heartthrob and Hollywood superstar, Robert Pattinson. As time has passed and we’ve all had the chance to come to terms with his loss, it’s been interesting to see how his personal life has evolved since the tragedy. We take a look at how his career, his relationships, and his home life have changed since the tragic events of February 28, 2018.
Career
For those of you who are fans of the Harry Potter books or the films, you’ll know that Robert’s character, Ron Weasley, is often described as being “at the center of the madding crowd.” As it turns out, Ron was indeed at the center of the madding crowd, but he was also at the heart of his own special kind of crowd. With a small, yet loyal group of friends, he basked in the celebrity that came with being Hollywood’s latest heartthrob while also keeping true to his working-class roots.
After Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 was released, Ron came out of retirement to attend the London premiere. Fans lined the streets from early in the morning to catch a glimpse of the actor as he made his way to the Leicester Square marquee. It was a truly iconic image: the heartthrob making his entrance in character as Pottermore’s brightest star – and one of the greatest pop culture phenomenon creators of all time.
After the premiere, it was back to work and more premieres. When the final Harry Potter film was released, it set a new record for the fastest-ever box office opening for a film series. As fans of the final chapter in the Potter saga know, the story ends on a happy note as we see Ron and his friends taking their places at the Hogwarts Express to begin their second year of teaching. Naturally, we want to believe that all good things must come to an end, and while it’s been a pleasure following along with Ron’s adventures as Harry Potter grew up, it’s time for the adventures to come to a close.
After completing the last Harry Potter film, Robert went on to star in the psychological thriller, Equus. The film itself was a critical and commercial disappointment, but it was another notch on his belt. With this film, Robert was clearly demonstrating that while he may be a heartthrob, he’s also got the chops to back it up on the big screen. He wrapped up 2018 with another triumph: starring opposite Alicia Vikanda in the historical drama, The Woman in the Window. Directed by Anton Corbijn and based on the best-selling novel of the same name by James Mark Polka, this adaptation of the late author’s acclaimed work tells the story of Edith Wharton’s (Alicia Vikanda) life in New York City during the Great Depression. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was universally praised for its star power and cinematic quality. It also marked the second time in as many years that Robert had collaborated with one of his favorite directors, Anton Corbijn. Naturally, this was well-deserved acclaim for a talented and versatile actor.
2019 was a banner year for Robert as he continued to rack up the awards. He not only starred in several high-profile film projects, but was also responsible for shaping some of the major events of the year. For example, he co-founded the NGO, Real Artists’ Co-op, with J.K. Rowling and Lin-Manuel Miranda. The organization promotes “equality and diversity in the art world by creating a welcoming space for artists of all genders and ethnicities to learn and grow.” He’s also an avid animal welfare supporter and spearheaded the campaign to #FreeTheNipple. The hashtag took off and gained popularity throughout the year, as more and more people came together in solidarity to fight back against the stigma that’s often attached to going au naturelle. The trend caught on like wildfire and continues to gain momentum as we speak. It was an awesome display of solidarity and support for all those who choose to liberate themselves and be at peace with their bodies.
Relationships
If we’re to believe the tabloids, fame and fortune didn’t exactly spoil Robert. While he may have been a dedicated bachelor for much of his life, he finally found happiness in 2019 with long-term partner and Creative Director of DMC Studio, Lydia Hearst. The two became even more famous this year as they welcomed their first child, a daughter named Daisy Alice Victoria, into the world on June 6th. Their happy family portrait was beamed around the world, as Daisy became the first member of the British royal family to be born into the digital age. Naturally, this didn’t stop the tabloids from throwing shade and wondering if the baby bump was a fluke with regards to Robert’s royal status. It wouldn’t be the first time that the press have tried to stir the pot regarding the Twilight actor’s marital status. Back in 2018, the tabloids had a field day after it was announced that Princess Beatrice was set to wed businessman Gavin Long in an intimate church ceremony. Like Princess Beatrice, Robert and Lydia decided that wedding bells were in order, and they exchanged vows in a beautiful setting in the summer of 2019. It was a family affair, as both of Beatrice’s and Gavin’s parents were there to witness the historic event. Naturally, the press had a field day with regards to this wedding, too. Some outlets dubbed it the “royal wedding of the year,” while others went so far as to compare it to the much-hyped but ultimately disappointing royal wedding of 2018. While there was a silver lining to this year’s wedding: it was an event that Robert and Lydia wanted private, due to Beatrice’s royal status. The two have since been photographed on several joyous occasions, including their first anniversary celebration and the christening of their daughter, Daisy. They continue to be an exemplary public figure and role model for young people, showing that love and happiness are possible for everyone no matter how famous or well-connected you may be.
Home Life
As we’ve established, Robert’s been fortunate enough to enjoy a long and successful career. He’s also maintained close ties to his fans, often appearing at charity events and festivals to celebrate and connect with his audience. Naturally, many of these fans have grown up idolizing the actor and have followed his every move. It’s been fascinating to watch their excitement and elation surrounding each new project or milestone and have been reminded of how fortunate we are to have experienced this phenomenal talent and influence in our lifetimes. He’s still passionate about connecting with his fans and frequently releases videos and social media updates to keep in touch and provide helpful information regarding upcoming projects. He’s also made a concerted effort to be more visible and accessible to his audience, as he often attends meet and greets with fans and allows them to get a glimpse of his private life. It’s been great to see how he’s handled the transition to a new phase of his life and continues to be an inspiration to others.