Amanda Seyfried recently reflected on her enduring friendship with Dominic Cooper, her co-star from the hit film ‘Mamma Mia!’, during the Hamptons International Film Festival. Their paths crossed once again as Seyfried was promoting her new film, ‘The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd’, while Cooper was there for the premiere of his own project, ‘The Lightkeeper’.
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Having first met on the set of the original ‘Mamma Mia!’ in 2007, Seyfried and Cooper shared a romantic relationship that lasted three years before they decided to part ways in 2011. Despite the end of their romantic involvement, the pair has successfully maintained their friendship for over a decade, showcasing the evolution of their bond.
At the festival, Seyfried noted that it was the first time in quite a while since she and Cooper had seen each other. Excited to reunite, she shared, “Our lives are very different. We live in very different places and I just have nothing but good feelings about him.” Seyfried currently resides in New York City with her two children and manages a farm upstate. Cooper, on the other hand, has settled in London with his partner, actress Gemma Chan.
The actress spoke candidly about how relationships change and develop over time. “When you’re with somebody for a long time when you’re younger, it just kind of evolves into this familial, nice, soft kind of bond,” she explained. She admitted that although they haven’t remained in constant contact, seeing him again was a pleasant experience. Seyfried expressed her gratitude, stating, “I’m just grateful for him. He’s hilarious. Relationships, friendships, they always evolve. It’s just so crazy that as we get older, you just want to be kind if you can.”
Cooper shared insights with PEOPLE, reflecting on the lasting impact of the ‘Mamma Mia!’ films. He revealed that many fans have told him their children watch the movies repeatedly. “That, for me, is just extraordinary to be part of that,” he remarked, acknowledging the ways these films have provided joy and comfort to families through difficult times.
Seyfried’s new film, ‘The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd’, tells the poignant story of a woman who finds love with an inmate while teaching creative writing classes at an Oklahoma prison. She praised the film’s writer and director, Tim Blake Nelson, saying, “He’s definitely one of a kind.” Seyfried shared her appreciation for working under someone who can provide such specific direction, noting that it has been both a challenging and nurturing experience.
Her previous work with Nelson in the film ‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ further cemented their professional relationship. Excited about her evolving career, Seyfried stated, “I feel like right now people are seeking me out to play these roles, which is just a real privilege.”
The premiere of Seyfried’s film at the Toronto International Film Festival marked an important milestone in her career as she embraces the opportunity to portray more complex and nuanced characters. However, the release date for ‘The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd’ has yet to be announced.
Overall, the rekindled connection between Seyfried and Cooper at the festival serves as a reminder of how friendships can flourish despite changes in life circumstances, further enriched by shared experiences and mutual respect. As both actors continue to navigate their careers, their story remains a testament to the potential for lasting bonds forged in the creative arts.