Did you know that while Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny fascinated audiences with their unquestionable on-screen chemistry as the iconic duo of The X-Files, there was, in reality, a notable tension simmering away from the cameras? Despite the underlying challenges, this dynamic pair brought FBI agents, Dana Scully & Fox Mulder, to life, delving into paranormal cases that had us on the edge of our seats.
Thus, viewers might assume that the two leads get along because of how long they have been working together, but that is not always the case. However, we obtained old footage of Anderson kissing Duchovny before her then-boyfriend at the 1997 Emmys, prompting many to speculate about the stars’ true off-screen relationship.
Isn’t it like opening Pandora’s box when you peel back the layers of intrigue that cloaked the iconic duo of Dana Scully and Fox Mulder, both on-screen and off?
The X-Files Throwback: Fans React to Old Footage of Gillian Anderson Locking Lips with David Duchovny
As fans of The X-Files bask in the nostalgia of rewatching their favorite paranormal investigators, Dana Scully and Fox Mulder, they are also left asking a question that has haunted them for years: Did Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny ever have a romantic relationship off-screen?
The tension between these actors has been a hot topic among fans for years, with whispers of secret love affairs and tension-filled moments on set (see Screen Rant). Their intense relationship has been likened to a rollercoaster of emotions, with highs and lows that left them at odds with each other at times.
The House of Mirth actress, 55, herself admitted that familiarity bred contempt, and their years of working together led to intense moments of conflict and disagreement (see The Guardian).
And just when we thought we had uncovered all the secrets of their complicated relationship, old footage has emerged that has fans in an absolute state of disbelief. Earlier this year, a clip from Emmy 1997 surfaced showing Anderson planting a kiss on David Duchovny before acknowledging her then-boyfriend (see Washington Post) at the time.
This revelation has sent The X-Files fans into a tailspin, with many questioning whether there was more to their on-screen chemistry than meets the eye. Here are some remarks made by fans (via Instagram):
Didn’t they hate each other or didn’t get along at some point??? -@franpisco_de_callo
Gillian Anderson can do what she wants, in whatever order she wants, and it’s 100% acceptable. -@colleenvangel
Cause a player don’t have to explain what’s already understood. -@creamlolo
Her and David r soulmates and no one can convince me otherwise. -@kiwikillsme
Hey first come, first served! David is fast, he makes the first move. -@stagsanddoes
The X-Files, created by Chris Carter, may be filled with conspiracy theories and paranormal cases, but the real mystery lies in the relationship between Anderson and Duchovny. And while we may never uncover all the secrets of their complicated dynamic, their bond, whether love or hate, has captivated fans for years and will continue to do so for years to come.
What We Know About Gillian Anderson & David Duchovny’s Off-Screen Relationship
In an interview with The Guardian, Gillian Anderson opened up about the rumors surrounding her relationship with David Duchovny. She admitted that there were times when the two of them didn’t see eye to eye, stating,
There were definitely periods when we hated each other. We didn’t talk for long periods of time. It was intense, and we were both pains in the a*se for the other at various times.
Anderson made it clear that, despite their disagreements, they always had mutual respect. Duchovny echoed her sentiments, revealing that they used to argue about nothing and “couldn’t stand the sight” of each other at times.
Like a pair of stormy seas, their relationship weathered many storms but ultimately found calm waters. The saying ‘familiarity breeds contempt’ seemed to ring true for Anderson and Duchovny, but they were able to overcome their differences and forge a lasting bond.
The X-Files is streaming on Hulu.