At the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics in Italy, late-night television host Seth Meyers found himself in an unexpected situation where a fan confused him for actor Hugh Grant. This amusing mix-up highlighted Meyers’ unique experience mingling with international audiences while attending the global sporting event.
During the Feb. 23 episode of Late Night with Seth Meyers, the 52-year-old comedian recounted how fans from various countries approached him for pictures and greetings. Although he wasn’t seated in the luxury box, instead watching the Team USA women’s hockey team win gold from the general stands, Meyers enjoyed engaging with the crowd.
“I was walking around and Americans were stopping to say hello. Canadians were stopping to say hello. A lot of Scandinavians were stopping to say hello,”
he said.
“A lot of people wanted pictures.”
Meyers affectionately described himself as “a man of the people,” appreciating the chance to connect with viewers firsthand despite his celebrity. However, one interaction stood out during his Olympic visit. A man asked him if he was Hugh Grant, to which Meyers responded, “no.” To convince the man, he showed a photo of himself interviewing Hugh Grant, only for the fan to reply,
“Ahh, I would have got a picture with Hugh Grant.”
The resemblance between the two men has been a source of humor for both, as Meyers has hosted the British actor multiple times, most recently in November 2024. The confusion was thus understandable, though amusing for Meyers.
Beyond this mistaken identity, Meyers shared that many Italians were unfamiliar with who he was, leading to some awkward exchanges.
“They were curious as to why other people knew who I was,”
he explained. He recounted moments when locals would approach, asking,
“Who are you? Who are you?”
After telling them he hosts a television show, their usual response was, “Alright, I’ll get a picture.” Meyers joked, “Don’t do me any favors!”
Despite these moments, the host expressed great enthusiasm about the event and praised Milan for delivering a remarkable Olympic experience. His candid reflections offered a glimpse into the life of a celebrity navigating an international arena where fame isn’t always universal.
Other Notable Celebrities at the Winter Games
The Winter Olympics attracted a range of prominent figures who joined the excitement in Italy alongside Seth Meyers.
Halle Bailey and Rege-Jean Page Supporting Figure Skating
Co-stars from the series You, Me & Tuscany, Halle Bailey and Rege-Jean Page attended the women’s figure skating short program, showing spirited support for the athletes competing in this elegant discipline.
Myles Garrett with Girlfriend Chloe Kim’s Podium Moment
Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett shared an emotional moment as he embraced his girlfriend Chloe Kim after she earned a silver medal in the women’s snowboard halfpipe competition, celebrating her impressive Olympic achievement.
Laurie Hernandez Capturing Figure Skating Excitement
Retired gymnast Laurie Hernandez was seen actively documenting the women’s figure skating short program, bringing her firsthand sports experience to candidly record the thrilling performances unfolding on the ice.
Princess Anne Participates in Medal Ceremony
As an esteemed member of the International Olympic Committee, British royal Princess Anne attended the women’s slopestyle finals, personally presenting medals to the top medalists and lending regal gravitas to the event.
Martha Stewart Attempts Sports Commentary
The famous cookbook author Martha Stewart tried her hand at providing commentary during the women’s figure skating short program, adding a unique voice from outside the traditional sports broadcasting circle.
Jake Paul Emotional over Fiancée’s Record-Breaking Race
YouTuber Jake Paul was visibly moved as he watched his fiancée Jutta Leerdam set an Olympic record in the women’s 1,000-meters long track speed skating final, sharing an intimate and heartfelt spectator moment.
Snoop Dogg Engages with Curling as NBC Correspondent
The rapper turned NBC Olympics correspondent Snoop Dogg took a hands-on approach by trying curling during practice sessions, immersing himself in a sport unfamiliar to many of his fans and viewers.
Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens Support Men’s Figure Skating
Olympic gymnastics legend Simone Biles and her husband Jonathan Owens attended the men’s singles figure skating finals, enjoying the grace and competition of the ice as spectators and fellow athletes.
Shaun White Covers the Opening Ceremony
Retired snowboarder Shaun White viewed the Opening Ceremony as an attendee and provided coverage for NBC, reflecting on the event that marked the official start of the Winter Olympic Games.
Sabrina Impacciatore Performs at the Opening Event
Actress Sabrina Impacciatore, known for The White Lotus, contributed artistically by performing a skit during the Opening Ceremony, enhancing the cultural celebration with her theatrical presence.
Charlize Theron Delivers a Message of Unity
At the Opening Ceremony, Charlize Theron spoke on the theme of peace, inspired by Nelson Mandela’s ideals, emphasizing that peace involves creating a supportive environment for all. She stated,
“Peace is not just the absence of conflict. Peace is the creation of an environment where all can flourish, regardless of race, colour, creed, religion, gender, class, caste or any other social markers of difference.”
Jean Todt and Michelle Yeoh Share a Moment in Milan
The couple, Jean Todt and Michelle Yeoh, were seen affectionately close, adding to the human interest stories woven through the celebration of sport and culture in Milan.
Usher’s Stylish Presence at the Games
Singer Usher brought his signature flair to the Olympics, with an outfit that impressed attendees even though he wasn’t among his usual club scene companions, affirming his status as a fashion icon.
Maggie Rogers’ Striking Appearance
Musician Maggie Rogers captivated audiences in Milan with her stunning white ensemble, standing out amid the diverse styles of stars and spectators at the Games.
Jeff Goldblum and Emilie Livingston’s Family Moment
Actors Jeff Goldblum and Emilie Livingston appeared at the Opening Ceremony with their sons Charlie Ocean and River Joe, sharing a rare family outing visible to the public during the global event.
Stanley Tucci Returns to Italy for the Olympics
Known for his role in The Devil Wears Prada, Stanley Tucci made a heartfelt return to Italy in time for the Opening Ceremony, reconnecting with a country long beloved by the actor.
Marisa Tomei Faces the Cold in Style
Spider-Man star Marisa Tomei opted for a chic yet warm coat to navigate the winter chill of Milan, balancing elegance with practicality as she attended the Games.
Grant Alan Show and Katherine LaNasa’s Olympic Debut
The Pitt star Grant Alan Show and actress Katherine LaNasa stole attention early in the Games, impressing attendees despite it not being their hometown Pittsburgh event.
The 2026 Winter Olympics offered a stage not only for athletic feats but also for moments blending celebrity culture, international interaction, and the warmth of shared human experiences. Seth Meyers’ mistaken identity incident demonstrated how fame can be a curious mix of recognition and mystery in an event bringing together people from around the world. As the Games progress, fans and participants alike continue witnessing not just the sports achievements but also vivid stories woven throughout the celebration in Milan and Cortina.
