It’s no secret that celebrities often date other celebrities, but every so often, a couple will emerge that seems like an odd fit. The latest example of this is Kylie Jenner, a reality TV star and makeup mogul, reportedly dating Timothée Chalamet, an Oscar-nominated actor known for his indie film roles.
Jenner, 24, and Chalamet, 26, have been spotted together on several occasions, sparking rumours of a romance. While neither has confirmed the relationship, the mere possibility of the two datings has ignited a fascination among fans and the media.
But why are we so intrigued by couples that seem like an odd fit? According to relationship experts, it’s because we’re drawn to the idea of opposites attracting.
“Opposites attract is a common phrase for a reason,” says Dr. Rebecca Hendrix, a licensed marriage and family therapist. “We are drawn to people who have qualities that we lack or admire. We also like the idea of bringing together two different worlds or lifestyles.”
In the case of Jenner and Chalamet, their worlds couldn’t be more different. Jenner grew up in a wealthy family and has built a multi-million dollar beauty empire, while Chalamet comes from a more humble background and has become known for his work in independent films.
Their age difference (Jenner is eight years older than Chalamet) and differing interests only add to the intrigue.
But fascination with seemingly odd couples is not a new phenomenon. Throughout Hollywood history, there have been numerous examples of celebrity couples that made fans scratch their heads.
One of the most famous examples is the late Anna Nicole Smith, a former Playboy model who married billionaire oil tycoon J. Howard Marshall when he was 89 and she was 26. Their marriage was heavily scrutinized by the media, with many questioning Smith’s motives for marrying someone so much older and wealthier.
Another example is the relationship between singer Britney Spears and Kevin Federline, a backup dancer she married in 2004. The couple’s marriage, which lasted just two years, was the subject of much gossip and speculation, with many wondering how they could possibly make it work.
So why are we so fascinated by these types of couples? According to Dr. Hendrix, it’s partly because we’re invested in their lives and want to see them happy, but also because we enjoy a good surprise.
“We like to be surprised and challenged in our thinking,” she says. “When a couple seems like an odd fit, it challenges our assumptions about what makes a good match and what we think we know about people.”
Of course, it’s worth noting that just because a couple seems like an odd fit on the surface, it doesn’t mean they can’t have a happy, healthy relationship.
“Compatibility is not just about shared interests or similar backgrounds,” says Dr Hendrix. “It’s about having a deep understanding and respect for each other’s differences, and being able to communicate and compromise effectively.”
As for Jenner and Chalamet, only time will tell if their rumoured romance will go the distance. But regardless of whether they end up together or not, their unlikely pairing has certainly captured our attention and sparked a conversation about what makes a good match.