Gwyneth Paltrow has recently stirred the pot with revelations from her upcoming biography, “Gwyneth: The Biography,” written by Amy Odell. Among the most talked-about topics in the book are the longstanding rumors surrounding her relationship with fellow actress Winona Ryder, particularly concerning the Oscar-winning role of Viola de Lesseps in the 1998 film “Shakespeare in Love.”
Paltrow, now 52, has faced persistent speculation that she may have “stolen” this coveted role from her friend Ryder, who is now 53. The narrative suggests that Paltrow initially declined the part, which was later awarded to her, igniting a feud that has captured Hollywood’s attention for decades. Odell’s book includes an excerpt published by People, indicating that Ryder was never formally offered the role, despite her desire to play it.
The biography also features an interview with disgraced producer Harvey Weinstein, who purportedly claimed that Paltrow had recommended Ryder for the role. The drama intensified when rumors surfaced that Paltrow had taken the script from Ryder’s coffee table, leading to accusations of betrayal. According to the book, Paltrow contended that Ryder was the source of these rumors and maintained that she had obtained the script through her agent.
“Shakespeare in Love” was a monumental success, receiving critical acclaim and multiple awards after its release in December 1998. The film’s triumph only added fuel to the fire of speculation regarding the friendship between Paltrow and Ryder, which had been a significant part of Hollywood’s 1990s landscape. Both actresses were romantically linked to actors Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, respectively, solidifying their bond during that era.
Despite the swirling rumors, Ryder has remained largely silent, choosing not to directly address the allegations. Paltrow, on the other hand, has spoken about the supposed fallout during various interviews. In a notable 2015 appearance on “The Howard Stern Show,” she dismissed the script-stealing claims as an “urban myth,” asserting her innocence. “I swear to God I did not, I’m raising my right hand on the Bible,” she stated emphatically.
The biography also revisits a 2009 Goop newsletter where Paltrow alluded to a past friendship that had soured, leading fans to speculate that she might have been referring to Ryder. In that newsletter, she described a “frenemy” who had allegedly sought to undermine her, expressing feelings of betrayal and anger. “I was deeply upset, I was angry, I was all of those things you feel when you find out that someone you thought you liked was venomous and dangerous,” she wrote.
As the release date of “Gwyneth: The Biography” approaches on July 29, fans are eager to delve deeper into the complexities of Paltrow’s life and her relationships within Hollywood. The book promises to shed light on not only her career but also the intricate dynamics that have shaped her experiences in the industry.
The saga of Gwyneth Paltrow and Winona Ryder serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny that Hollywood friendships can face. As both actresses continue to navigate their careers, the lingering questions surrounding their past remain a topic of fascination for fans and the media alike. With each new revelation, the story of their friendship and rivalry becomes even more compelling, leaving audiences eager for more insights into the lives of these iconic stars.