In a shocking revelation, Emma Thompson has admitted that she was completely unaware of her then-husband Kenneth Branagh’s affair with Helena Bonham Carter.
The affair took place while they were working together on the film “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” in 1994.
In an interview with the New Yorker, Thompson spoke candidly about her ignorance, stating, “I was utterly, utterly blind to the fact that he had relationships with other women on set.”
She also reflected on how easy it is to deceive oneself when driven by desire.
Thompson further shared that when she and Branagh decided to divorce in 1995, she felt like she was only “half alive.”
The experience left her feeling unlovable and unworthy.
The couple first met on the set of the series “Fortunes of War” in 1987.
Thompson recalled being won over by Branagh’s singing during their downtime.
She described the moment, saying, “I burst into tears because he sounded exactly like my father singing on ‘The Magic Roundabout.’
He was incandescent with ambition and performance energy.”
Once considered the “Golden Couple” by the British press, Thompson admitted feeling embarrassed by the high-profile nickname.
She clarified that they never aimed to be a power couple and were anything but glamorous.
In fact, they faced ridicule and mockery from the media.
Despite the difficulties surrounding their separation, Thompson eventually found love again with her “Sense and Sensibility” co-star Greg Wise.
She credited him with helping her pick up the pieces and rebuild her life.
Their marriage has lasted for 19 years, and Thompson has learned valuable lessons from their union.
Thompson and Wise have two children together, Tindyebwa Agaba Wise, who they adopted, and Gaia Romilly Wise.
The actress cherishes her second marriage and the growth it has brought her.
In 2018, Thompson expressed that she holds no ill feelings towards Branagh or Bonham Carter.
She stated that any past grievances are now water under the bridge and that she doesn’t have the energy to hold onto negativity.
Thompson even praised Bonham Carter, calling her a wonderful woman.
This revelation provides a glimpse into the personal struggles and triumphs of a beloved actress.
Thompson’s resilience and ability to find happiness after heartbreak serve as an inspiration to many.