In a recent episode of “The Louis Theroux Podcast,” former Little Mix member Jade Thirlwall opened up about her unexpected history with Harry Styles, revealing an encounter that highlights the unpredictability of young relationships in the music industry. During the podcast, Thirlwall candidly recounted a date they shared when they were both around 16 years old, shortly after Styles had rocketed to fame as part of One Direction, a band formed on the British reality show “The X Factor.”
Having hardly settled into their newfound fame, Styles apparently “ghosted” Thirlwall following their initial meeting, a revelation that sent ripples through the episode. The young Thirlwall recollected, “And then the minute they went on live shows, he didn’t message me back. I thought, ‘That’s it now. He’s gone. He’s made it.’” It is a sentiment many can relate to: the anxious feeling after a promising connection suddenly seems to fade away into silence. For both of them, that early experience offered a glimpse into the often-challenging personal dynamics faced by young artists in the limelight.
A Chance Encounter of Apologies
Years later, after both artists found themselves enveloped in their blossoming careers, a chance reunion allowed Styles to extend an olive branch. After Thirlwall achieved monumental success with Little Mix, Styles reached out to her, taking the initiative to apologize for his ghosting behavior. Thirlwall shared, “I saw him… and he was like, ‘I’m really sorry that I ignored you,’” indicating that the burdens of fame can lead to regrettable actions that often require rectification later.
The candid discussion turned lighthearted, with Theroux bluntly stating the situation: “He ghosted you,” to which Thirlwall nodded in acceptance, reinforcing the idea that young hearts can easily be swept away by the tumult of fame and personal ambitions. She added, “I was so young. It didn’t really matter,” emphasizing a mature perspective on the matter.
Growth and Moving On
The iconic singers’ paths have diverged since those early days, and both have moved on to notable romantic relationships. Styles has enjoyed high-profile connections with various celebrities, including Taylor Swift and Olivia Wilde, while Thirlwall has been linked to several figures within the entertainment industry, currently dating rapper and actor Jordan Stephens. Both artists have grown significantly since their brief encounter, developing their individual careers and navigating the complexities of relationships in the public eye.
Reflecting on their past, Thirlwall lauds Styles, labeling him “very talented” and “very charming.” Her words speak volumes about their youthful encounter, transforming what could have been a bitter experience into a narrative of camaraderie and mutual respect. This history serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of young love and the importance of growth, forgiveness, and understanding in one’s journey through fame and personal connections.
As they both continue to carve their paths in the entertainment industry, the story demonstrates how even missteps can lead to meaningful interactions later in life, fostering friendships born from shared experiences and mutual respect.