Paul Mescal: Everything You Need To Know About Normal People Star

2020 may have been a year of crippling isolation, problematic wine consumption and the omnipresent threat of a deadly virus, but it was also a year for bloody good TV. From Tiger King to Normal People, the era spawned some of the biggest series streaming platforms had ever seen, and if you watched the latter, you're probably a bit in love with Paul Mescal. Ever since winning the Best Leading Actor award at the Virgin Media TV BAFTAs in 2021, all eyes have been on the star to see what he would do post-Connell.

Here's everything you need to know about Paul Mescal - who was recently named an ambassador for Cartier - and his upcoming projects...

How old is Paul Mescal and where is he from?

Paul is 26 - his birthday is 2 February - and was born in Maynooth in County Kildare, Ireland. He was raised by his parents Paul and Dearbhla and grew up with two siblings, his sister Nell and brother Donnacha.

What did Paul Mescal do before Normal People?

Although Normal People was Paul's screen debut, he's done rather well in the world of theatre. After studying acting at The Lir Academy at Trinity College Dublin, he landed roles in theatre productions in London and Dublin, including a role in a Gate Theatre production of The Great Gatsby and another in The Plough And The Stars at Lyric Theatre and Gaiety Theatre.

Before Normal People, his screen work comprised mainly of an advert for Denny (a popular Irish sausage and bacon brand). In the short ad, which aired on Irish TV, he eats sausages and is then inspired to travel. Yes, it is as strange as it sounds.

What is Paul Mescal starring in next?

Paul is currently racing about the country doing promo for his upcoming film Aftersun - more on that in a minute - but Mescal fans rejoice because a trailer for another upcoming project has just quietly dropped for us to pore over in the mean time.

God's Creatures is being touted as 'Irish Gothic' and is the brain child of film-makers Saela Davis and Anna Rose Holmer, who've got a number of successful indie credits to their names. While there's no release date yet, God's Creatures has already wowed critics, with W Magazine describing it as 'an affecting, clear eyed masterpiece'.

Does everything this guy touches turn to gold?

Watch the trailer below.

Paul Mescal in Aftersun (not that Aftersun)

Paul's movie Aftersun wowed critics at Cannesand won a slew of five-star reviews, including a rare 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Set in the 90s, Paul stars as Calum, a divorced Scottish father who goes on holiday trip with his daughter Soph. A UK release date for Aftersun is set for 18th of November, which, we know, is ages away.

Does Paul Mescal have a girlfriend?

Paul Mescal is dating American singer Phoebe Bridgers. The pair were first reported to be dating in 2020 but it took a while before they finally made things public. Before they confirmed their relationship, Paul told GQ about his mystery girlfriend, saying, 'To have someone to lean on through such a mad, mad time has been invaluable. Really, I don’t know where I’d be without her.'

In December 2020 Paul appeared in the video for Phoebe’s song Savior Complex, but it wasn't until November 2021 that the couple made their red carpet debut at the LACMA Art + Film Gala in California, going 'Insta official' in December 2021.

Is Paul Mescal engaged?

In April 2022 engagement rumours started swirling as The Daily Mail reported that Phoebe had been referring to Paul as her fiancé at Coachella. However, so far, their reps have not confirmed anything.

Where does Paul Mescal live?

Paul used to live in North East London, but inevitably, thanks to his fancy new A list credentials, reportedly moved to Los Angeles to be closer to California native Phoebe. It's recently been reported that the couple are looking to buy - and potentially already have bought - a home in County Cork, South West Ireland.

Is Paul Mescal on social media?

Paul was on Instagram - and luckily we managed to archive his arty posts (see below) - but deactivated his account in 2021. His Twitter account is still there but he hasn't posted since 2020.