Twenty years after their iconic roles in the romantic comedy “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” actresses Kate Hudson and Kathryn Hahn reflect on their enduring friendship and evolving careers. The duo, who first captured audiences’ hearts as best friends on a quest for love, now find themselves at the forefront of television comedy, each showcasing their unique talents in distinct roles.
In a candid conversation, Hahn recalls her first major film experience with Hudson. “It was my first movie,” she shares. “To have you as the lead of it was so grounding. I don’t know what I imagined it would be like, but I certainly didn’t imagine it to feel just so freaking fun and loose and supported.” At the time, Hudson had just starred in Cameron Crowe’s “Almost Famous,” earning an Academy Award nomination and cementing her status as a rising star.
The Evolution from Film to Television
Today, both actresses are making waves on the small screen. Hahn transitions from her role in “WandaVision” to lead her own series, “Agatha All Along,” where she plays the captivating witch Agatha Harkness. Her comedic prowess also shines in the Apple TV+ series “The Studio,” portraying an eccentric marketing executive. Meanwhile, Hudson embraces her comedic flair in Netflix’s “Running Point,” a sports comedy where she unexpectedly takes charge of her family’s basketball team. Additionally, Hudson’s musical ambitions came to fruition with her debut album, “Glorious,” which topped the charts last year.
Their reunion in “Glass Onion” rekindled their on-screen chemistry, reminding audiences of their dynamic partnership. Hudson fondly recalls Hahn’s audition for “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” a moment filled with humor and spontaneity. “You came in and you were just like, ‘Oh my God. I’m so sorry. I couldn’t find the parking,’” Hudson reminisces. “I immediately was like, ‘I love this woman so much.’”
From Auditions to Witchcraft
Their shared history is peppered with memorable experiences, including Hudson reading Hahn’s tarot cards on her birthday. “You were saying, ‘It’s time to let things go. There’s something you’re holding on to,’” Hahn recalls, noting the serendipitous timing with her casting as Agatha. “That was nuts. I couldn’t tell anybody for a while, so it just kind of felt like vapors.”
Hahn’s portrayal of Agatha Harkness is both humorous and emotionally resonant, a balance she credits to her showrunners. “I kept saying they were like emotional script supervisors,” she explains. The character’s depth is symbolized by a locket she wears, containing a piece of her son’s hair, a detail mirrored in her real life by a similar gift from her family.
Exploring New Artistic Frontiers
Hudson’s journey into music during the COVID-19 pandemic was driven by a desire to explore her full artistic potential. “In COVID, it really was like, God, if I die, I feel like I’ve left things on the table,” she confides. “Even if it means something to one person, then it means something to me.” Her vulnerability and determination to pursue new avenues serve as an inspiration to many, including Hahn.
Hahn praises Hudson’s courage, recalling a private listening session at Hudson’s home. “I just remember goose bumps,” she says. “It’s inspiring to so many women. It’s like, you don’t just have to do what you’ve been doing; you can change.”
As they continue to break new ground, both actresses remain committed to their craft and to each other. Their friendship, rooted in mutual respect and shared experiences, continues to thrive amid the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood.
As Hudson and Hahn navigate their careers, their stories resonate with audiences seeking authenticity and inspiration. Their journey from rom-com stars to multifaceted performers highlights the power of reinvention and the enduring bond of friendship.
