Inside Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor’s Private Romance

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“My life choices are, um, unconventional.”

Sarah Paulson made this statement to The Edit in 2017, and by that, she wasn’t just talking about the diverse characters she played in FX’s American Horror Story, such as witches, conjoined twin sisters, or a drug addict.

Indeed, it’s undeniably true! I can’t help but gush over the fact that the esteemed Golden Globe and Emmy award-winning icon, who’s been making waves in the industry for decades, was subtly hinting at her extraordinary bond with Holland Taylor. The intrigue surrounding their relationship has captured the hearts of many, largely due to their significant age difference – a stunning 32 years! Yet, these remarkable women have bravely chosen to address the curiosity surrounding their romance in public, making headlines and inspiring countless admirers like myself.

Paulson mentioned, “I’m often seen with someone considerably older than myself, which seems quite intriguing and unusual to others. Yet, to me, it’s the least remarkable aspect of my identity.

Among many things that make her stand out, one is her remarkable talent which has garnered her nine Emmy nominations and five Golden Globe nominations. However, despite being nominated for an award in 2021, she lost to Emma Corrin from The Crown. Nevertheless, she still earned another title – a long-term partner of over eight years – during that time.

Taylor, at 82 years old, declared emphatically that no one is more stunning than herself. Not a single soul, she insisted, while adorning her bespoke Prada dress with a haute couture cast.

That’s the kind of connection Paulson spent years looking for. 

In her professional life, she developed unique connections, as evidenced during her 2014 conversation with Julianne Moore for Interview magazine. She expressed fondness for working with the same team on American Horror Story, stating, “I enjoy having the same crew. I’m not married, don’t have children, and my dog passed away at 17. I’m essentially alone, so I appreciate the consistency.” She added, “I like looking around and seeing familiar faces – the camera team, hair, makeup – who were there from the start. I value that sense of family in my work environment, having the same people to interact with.

Next year, I found myself no longer alone; I had fallen in love. However, my blossoming romance unfolded gradually, as my professional life was thriving following my inspiration-turned-muse role for Ryan Murphy and his dynamic projects.

In November 2015, Taylor revealed that she was in a relationship with a woman, describing it as an incredibly amazing and unique experience. Later, she expressed being taken aback by the intensity of the media attention her interview generated. “I come from an older generation,” Taylor said in InStyle, “and for me, it’s quite unusual to discuss personal matters so openly in the press. It feels unnatural.

Initially, what Taylor experienced wasn’t something that came naturally, but over time, it felt appropriate. The former star of “Two and a Half Men” explained that just because it wasn’t instinctive, it didn’t mean it was bad; instead, it required some getting used to. As for Sarah, who is from a more contemporary era, she embodies the spirit of today. At first, Taylor found it challenging to transition through the barrier of being a private individual. However, he has come to appreciate the process, especially since it has been a pleasant experience for him.

Initially, rumors emerged about the Emmy Award-winning actor dating Paulson, but it wasn’t until March 2016 that she publicly acknowledged their relationship. Interestingly, she chose a bold approach by discussing their romance for the first time in a New York Times profile. In an unusual turn of events for celebrity interviews, Paulson was open and candid about her love life.

Paulson expressed that if he had to make his life decisions based on the expectations of communities on both sides, it would feel incredibly restrictive, which he doesn’t want. However, he confirmed unequivocally that he is in love, and that person is Holland Taylor.

Mic drop. 

Embracing confidence, I’m thrilled to announce the emergence of a fresh Hollywood duo that has truly captured everyone’s hearts. The digital world is abuzz with affection for this dynamic pair. One captivating title from Buzzfeed reads, “A Little Nudge: Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor are living a love story more enchanting than any you could imagine.

Indeed, it’s difficult to dispute that, considering their charming first encounter, often referred to as a “meet-cute,” which took place approximately two decades ago and set the stage for a romantic comedy-style beginning to their relationship.

Paulson and Taylor started dating in 2015, but they had already crossed paths a decade earlier at a dinner gathering. During that initial encounter, Paulson was in a relationship with actress Cherry Jones who was 18 years older. However, as reported by the Times, Paulson confessed that Taylor was “undoubtedly the most breathtakingly beautiful woman I had ever laid eyes on” during that time.

Swoon.

Paulson briefly summarized the story of their relationship evolution: After not seeing each other for several years, they reconnected. Interactions through Twitter and private messages ensued, leading to a date. From that point forward, their story became part of history.

In an extensive interview with the newspaper, Paulson candidly discussed his preference for dating older women: “There’s a profoundness to companionship with someone more experienced. I believe there’s a deeper appreciation of time and the significance of shared moments, which can make trivial matters appear insignificant.

She went on to describe, “The light cast is a blend of intense and gentle rays illuminating an object.” Furthermore, she couldn’t find different words to express it other than acknowledging its profound impact, emphasizing the significance and preciousness of the moment.

As a lifestyle expert, I might say: In a subtle nod to our blossoming relationship, Taylor openly acknowledged the age gap between us, expressing that many folks might find it surprising. Even I, for one, was taken aback, but as the saying goes, “If it’s meant to be, it will be.

In 2016, Paulson publicly and enthusiastically expressed her affection for Taylor on the biggest television night of the year. During her Emmy acceptance speech, after winning for her portrayal of Marcia Clark (her date for the event) in “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story,” she declared, “I love you.

Taylor’s response on Twitter as she watched (and live-tweeted) from home? “There it is.” 

Back in 2017, during a chat with The Edit, I myself had my doubts about mentioning Taylor in my acceptance speech. Yet, in the end, I chose to do so, and it was a moment I’ll cherish forever.

Paulson pondered, might I not act that way? And then he questioned himself, why wouldn’t I not? He admitted, “It feels instinctively incorrect. Yet, a fleeting worry crossed my mind about how others who weren’t aware of my background might react, perhaps with confusion or surprise. But eventually, I decided to go ahead and do it.

Despite openly appearing at events such as the 2018 Emmy Awards alongside their partner, Paulson has been reluctant to discuss their relationship in detail. In fact, she even shared with The Edit back in 2017 that some advised her to keep their romance under wraps, fearing it might negatively affect her career. (But to those skeptics, we’d like to point out: Take a look at Paulson’s impressive TV and film accomplishments!)

Paulson stated that the idea of Taylor’s career being negatively impacted by their relationship never crossed her mind at all, but when she does bring it up, it’s on her own accord. As she expressed to Town & Country in January 2018, “I do not wish to be characterized based on who I spend my nights, my home, and my emotional self with.” Her life choices have been unconventional, and that’s her personal matter.

In discussing the subject of maintaining a relationship, Paulson mentioned during an episode of the Smartless podcast in May 2024 that residing separately is crucial for keeping the romance vibrant. “Holland and I spend ample time together, yet we don’t share the same home,” she clarified. Recalling that Taylor had not lived with a partner for some time, she added, “Given my age and the fact that I haven’t cohabited with someone for an extended period—I believe it was quite an adjustment to have me and all my individuality in her living space.

But she has no worries about having them and all their sweetness in the public eye. 

She shared with Town & Country that she strives to live openly, honestly, and without concealment. She acknowledged the complexity of her situation, as the world harbors much hatred but also has potential for good. Her relationship symbolizes a balance between hope and risk, perhaps even embodying courage. It might inspire others to make bold decisions too. In simpler terms, she simply said, “We love each other.

In an interview with Elle magazine in October 2018, the star of ‘Glass’ openly discussed the intrigue and peculiarity surrounding their relationship that many people found captivating.

Paulson shared with the magazine that he didn’t deliberately fall in love with the person he fell for, but finds it intriguing because on the surface, their relationship might seem unconventional. For individuals who may struggle with their situation being misunderstood or judged, they could identify with Paulson living his life honestly and authentically. If this encourages others to do the same, that can only be a good thing.

If an individual encounters difficulties in their romantic life, Paulson has a piece of advice for them. She stated to Modern Luxury, “If someone considers it odd that I love the most extraordinary person in existence, then that’s their concern. I am content with how things are going for me.

And for Paulson, age is nothing but a number, even when it comes to getting older herself.

Occasionally, she would exclaim, “Wow, I’m seven years away from 50, that’s the big 5-0,” in 2018, thinking about her age of 43 at the time. However, she would also remind herself, “Don’t worry about seven years ahead. You never know what your life will be like or where you’ll end up.” And that’s what makes life so delightful. You cross your fingers, take a deep breath, and leap. And that’s essentially all you can do.

Regarding the possibility of motherhood influencing her future, Paulson herself acknowledges being uncertain due to her busy work commitments (as she mentioned during an interview with The Sunday Times that she has frozen her eggs as a precautionary measure).

As an ardent admirer, I shared with Town & Country, “I yearn to avoid being pulled apart. The thought of gazing upon my child, who embodies the pinnacle of extraordinary moments in my life, while simultaneously recognizing them as potential harbingers of downfall, is a torment I wish to evade. Balancing my mother’s role – being present at school plays and sustaining a livelihood – has always been a challenge. From an early age, I’ve had a clear vision for my professional journey, and I didn’t want that path to lead me to lament, ‘If only I had chosen to prioritize this time in my life solely for myself.’ It may seem selfish, but I believe the term ‘selfish’ often gets unfairly maligned.

Instead of attributing her relationship with Taylor to mom-related matters, Paulson clarified during an interview with The Sunday Times, “People may speculate ‘mommy issues,’ but in truth, we both parent each other just as much.

She went on to say, “Many folks tend to perceive elders in a limited manner, it’s a means of avoiding something they believe won’t affect them. I’m fortunate enough to be with someone who is more experienced and insightful than me.

However, just because Paulson didn’t appear pleased, it doesn’t imply that Taylor didn’t have reasons for wearing the sweatshirt during her InStyle interview. When Paulson called during the interview, Taylor, the star of Mr. Mercedes, wasn’t delighted to see a specific piece of clothing on-screen. The magazine reported, “‘That’s my sweatshirt she’s wearing,’ she says, with a calculated dramatic pause. ‘Bitch.’

And in 2023, Paulson provided the ultimate Instagram tribute on Taylor’s birthday:

Can you say relationship goals?

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2025-06-21 10:17