Olivia Wilde Denies Florence Pugh Screaming Match on ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ Set

Olivia Wilde denied in an interview with The Cut that a “screaming match” took place on the set of the 2022 film “Don’t Worry Darling.” Wilde also rejected claims that she was unavailable during production, contradicting reports of a feud with star Florence Pugh.

Why did Olivia Wilde deny the “Don’t Worry Darling” rumors?

Wilde told The Cut that the highly publicized rumors of her absence and on-set arguments were not true. She stated she had never had a screaming match on her set and was always available during production.

These comments address a September 2022 report from Vulture. That report alleged a “blowout argument” occurred between Wilde and Pugh roughly three-quarters of the way through filming.

Vulture further reported that Pugh grew “fed up” with Wilde’s unexplained absences. The report claimed Wilde and co-star Harry Styles would disappear from the set due to their romance.

According to the Vulture report, Pugh contacted New Line Cinema’s then-chairman Toby Emmerich. She allegedly sought to ensure she would not have to participate in the film’s life cycle.

How did the studio handle the on-set drama?

Wilde claimed the studio and other involved parties demanded her silence during the controversy. She told The Cut, “I was told, ‘Don’t say a fucking word. Just go out there and smile.’”

Wilde expressed resentment toward this directive in the interview. She noted that the experience taught her this is not how she wants to handle such situations in the future.

In a previous appearance on “Call Her Daddy,” Wilde said she felt “disconnected” from the person the public was discussing. She described it as strange to see “complete fiction traded as fact.”

Wilde recounted advice from Jennifer Garner regarding how the public assigns archetypes, like the “damsel in distress” or the “good girl.” Wilde stated that during this period, she became the “full-on villain. Like Cruella.”

What did the crew say about Olivia Wilde’s professionalism?

The production crew fiercely defended Wilde against claims of unprofessionalism. Producer Katie Silberman and other crew members called the rumors “absurd gossip.”

The group described Wilde as an “incredible leader and director” who remained involved in every aspect of production. They stated that allegations of unprofessional behavior were “completely false.”

The crew’s statement emphasized that they witnessed a “collaborative and safe space” created by Wilde. They specifically denied that any screaming match occurred between the director and any cast member.

What happens next for Olivia Wilde?

Wilde may be more likely to speak out immediately against public narratives in future projects. Her stated resentment toward being silenced suggests a shift in her approach to press management.

The contrast between the Vulture report and the crew’s joint statement could lead to further scrutiny of anonymous sourcing in entertainment reporting. Wilde’s public reflection on her “villain” persona may serve as a template for how she manages her public image moving forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Olivia Wilde and Florence Pugh have a screaming match?

Olivia Wilde and a group of 40 crew members denied that a screaming match ever took place. However, Vulture reported in September 2022 that a “blowout argument” occurred between the two.

Why did Olivia Wilde remain silent during the film’s press cycle?

Wilde told The Cut that she was instructed by the studio and others involved in the movie to not say a word and simply “smile.”

Who supported Olivia Wilde during the controversy?

A group of 40 crew members, including producer Katie Silberman, cinematographer Matthew Libatique, and costume designer Arianne Phillips, issued a statement defending her leadership and professionalism.

Do you think studio-mandated silence helps or hurts a celebrity’s reputation during a scandal?