Florence Pugh, aged 29, recently shared her experiences coping with the public scrutiny surrounding her former relationship with director Zach Braff, who is 50. In an interview on the *Louis Theroux* podcast, Pugh discussed the emotional toll that the backlash over their 21-year age difference took on her, stating that she felt “hurt” by the negative reactions from social media users. The couple dated for three years before their split in 2022, and Pugh has confirmed that she is now in a new relationship.
Reflecting on her past romance with Braff, Pugh expressed no regrets about defending their relationship. She emphasized that she felt entitled to make her own choices and stood firm against critics who she believed had “no right to educate” her on her personal life. Pugh remarked, “It was an insane amount of abuse being hurled at my relationship just because there was an age gap.”
During the conversation, she also acknowledged the challenges of navigating public interest in her romantic life. “With relationships and romance, it doesn’t matter how much you speak on it or how little you speak on it; people want a story,” she explained. Pugh noted that the desire for a narrative often overshadows genuine emotions, leading to misunderstandings and hurt.
New Beginnings
In a significant shift from her past, Pugh revealed that she is now in a new relationship but chose to keep the identity of her current partner private. Previously, she was linked to actor Finn Cole, known for his role in *Peaky Blinders*. The two reportedly began dating after being spotted together at events, including the after-party for the London premiere of *The Perfect Couple* in September 2025.
Pugh’s candidness extended beyond her romantic life. She opened up about a difficult period in her past, during which she experienced a breakdown following a previous relationship. In this vulnerable moment, she admitted to turning to self-harm as a way to cope with her emotional pain. “I found myself injured; I would injure myself,” she shared, describing her struggle with anxiety and the physical manifestations of her distress.
The actress highlighted the importance of recognizing signs of mental health issues, stating, “When you are hurting your body, that’s your body screaming at you.” This reflection on her past indicates a desire to foster understanding around mental health challenges.
Looking Forward
As she navigates her new relationship, Pugh seems to be focusing on her personal well-being and happiness. The *Don’t Worry Darling* star expressed optimism, saying her current romantic situation feels “very good.” This new chapter in her life marks a positive transition, contrasting with the intense scrutiny she faced in her earlier relationship.
Pugh’s experiences underscore the challenges that public figures often encounter regarding their personal lives, especially in the age of social media. Her willingness to share these insights not only provides a glimpse into her life but also encourages a broader conversation about mental health and the importance of self-advocacy in the face of public judgment.
