Elle Fanning relationship news has gained widespread attention as the actress confirmed her romance with Gus Wenner, the executive chairman at Rolling Stone, since 2023. Their partnership, highlighted by public appearances and familial approval, has intrigued fans eager to know more about this notable couple.
How Elle Fanning and Gus Wenner’s Relationship Began
Elle Fanning and Gus Wenner first became romantically linked in 2023, with growing speculation after their outing in New York City that November. The paparazzi captured them holding hands on a dinner date, an image later shared by Page Six. While the exact timing of their relationship’s start remains uncertain, this outing marked a shift from private to public attention.
According to Elle, Wenner has become an important part of her life. He’s known for his deep appreciation for music and shares a connection with iconic figures through his work and personal interests. Their relationship appears to have blossomed quickly, with Fanning describing herself as a believer in love’s forceful and unexpected arrival. She once said,
“I believe in love at first sight. Call me crazy, but I believe in those things. I feel that it’s my destiny.”
– Elle Fanning, Actress
Public Appearances Define a New Chapter
The couple’s first major public appearance came at the 2024 Golden Globes, where they made their red carpet debut. Fanning wore a vintage Pierre Balmain gown accented by Cartier jewelry, making a memorable statement alongside Wenner. She explained her choice of attire for the evening:
“This dress was pulled from Balmain’s archives for me, so it’s very special.”
– Elle Fanning, Actress. She remarked on the experience,
“You get nervous wearing something so fragile that’s like a museum art piece, but it’s made so beautifully it’s going to last forever. It’s the perfect dress for tonight.”
– Elle Fanning, Actress
The couple’s united front continued with appearances at several high-profile events, including the U.S. Open, the LACMA Art+Film Gala, and the 2024 Met Gala. At the Met Gala, the Sleeping Beauties theme provided a subtle nod to Fanning’s iconic role as Sleeping Beauty. She chose another Balmain ensemble paired with translucent sandals, aiming for a delicate, icy effect.
“I wanted it to look like ice or like glass, so delicate it could break,”
she shared with Vogue.
“So I’m a glass statue in the [film’s] garden.”
– Elle Fanning, Actress
Social Media and Heartfelt Messages
Social media has become another avenue for the couple to express their affection. Both Fanning and Wenner have not hesitated to share their feelings online, particularly on special occasions. Wenner posted,
“Everyday is valentines day my love 💜🪽🍦✨,”
— Gus Wenner, Executive Chairman. In response, Fanning wrote,
“✨Happy Valentine’s✨Love of my life✨I got your back always✨.”
– Elle Fanning, Actress
Gus Wenner: Influences and Career at Rolling Stone
Gus Wenner, whose father Jann Wenner co-founded Rolling Stone in 1967, was immersed in music culture from an early age. He frequently credits his father as a mentor and guiding influence on his professional journey. After graduating from Brown University in 2012, Gus joined Rolling Stone, where he steadily rose through the ranks from president and chief operating officer to CEO in 2022. In May 2025, following a leadership change, he transitioned into the executive chairman role.
Commenting on the leadership update, Penske Media Corporation’s Jay Penske said,
“Rolling Stone is poised for continued success leveraging Gus’ deep experience and vision for the brand and Julian’s keen business instincts and passion for innovation.”
– Jay Penske, Penske Media Corporation. He emphasized the magazine’s direction:
“Rolling Stone will continue its rich legacy of world class journalism and culture-shaping conversation while creating new avenues for growth.”
– Jay Penske, Penske Media Corporation
Personal Connections and Musical Background
At Brown University, Wenner formed the band Gus + Scout with Scout Willis, the daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore. Both Wenner and Willis grew up together in Idaho, creating a deep bond that later translated into successful musical collaboration. Reflecting on their partnership, Wenner commented,
“When we started writing music together, it was extremely natural.”
– Gus Wenner, Executive Chairman. He added,
“I think in most parts because we had known each other as kids.”
– Gus Wenner, Executive Chairman
Wenner’s ongoing passion for music, particularly as a fan of Bob Dylan, intersects serendipitously with Fanning’s artistic work. In 2024, she portrayed Dylan’s girlfriend in the biopic A Complete Unknown, aligning her on-screen performance with Wenner’s musical interests.
Family Signs of Approval and Support
Fanning’s relationship with Wenner received a meaningful endorsement from her sister Dakota Fanning, adding an important layer to their love story. An early chance meeting between Dakota and Wenner occurred at an after-party in Las Vegas, a pivotal moment in which they developed an immediate bond. Elle recalled the encounter with emotion:
“We were newly dating, and I really cared about him,”
– Elle Fanning, Actress. She continued,
“They were at the same after-party—she turned around, and there he was. They had this whole night of gambling. Dakota was with all of her girlfriends, and I’m getting sent videos. She’s dancing with Gus.”
– Elle Fanning, Actress. Dakota’s response to the evening was just as heartfelt, describing it as “great,” and ultimately stating,
“He’s the brother I never had.”
– Dakota Fanning, Actress
The Lasting Significance of Elle Fanning’s Relationship News
The public emergence of Elle Fanning’s relationship with Gus Wenner has been marked by high-profile appearances, support from family, and a shared appreciation for artistry and music. Their union, now established in the public eye, is shaped by a blend of legacy, culture, and a genuine romantic bond. As they continue to make headlines and inspire discussion among fans and followers, their story resonates with the thrill and vulnerability of new love, set against the backdrop of fame and tradition. Observers will be watching to see how this partnership evolves on both personal and professional stages, with Elle Fanning relationship news likely to remain in the spotlight for the foreseeable future.
