Joe Alwyn is not just another rising star in Hollywood—he’s a multifaceted artist whose talents span both acting and songwriting. With a calm and private demeanor that sets him apart from many of his peers, Alwyn has carved out a distinctive path in the entertainment world. From starring in acclaimed films to co-writing Grammy-winning songs with Taylor Swift, his career continues to evolve in exciting ways.
Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a Swiftie, or someone curious about the man behind some of today’s popular music, Joe Alwyn is a name worth knowing.
Early Life and Education
Joseph Matthew Alwyn was born on February 21, 1991, in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, England, and raised in North London. His father is a documentary filmmaker, while his mother works as a psychotherapist—so it’s no surprise that creativity runs in the family.
Alwyn attended the City of London School, where he developed an early interest in acting. Though naturally shy, he began performing in school productions and eventually pursued the craft more seriously. He studied English literature and drama at the University of Bristol before enrolling at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, one of the UK’s most prestigious drama institutions. This strong academic foundation helped shape his thoughtful and restrained acting style.
Acting Career
Joe Alwyn’s entrance into the film industry was anything but ordinary. While still in drama school, he landed the lead role in Ang Lee’s war drama Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk (2016). The film, based on the novel by Ben Fountain, followed a young soldier’s emotional return home from Iraq. Alwyn’s quiet intensity and natural presence earned him praise, especially considering it was his screen debut.
Following his breakthrough, Alwyn continued to build an impressive filmography:
Boy Erased (2018): Alwyn played a supporting role in this powerful drama based on the memoir by Garrard Conley, which tackled the controversial subject of conversion therapy.
Mary Queen of Scots (2018): In this historical drama, he portrayed Robert Dudley, a close confidant to Queen Elizabeth I, played by Margot Robbie.
Harriet (2019): Alwyn took on the role of Gideon Brodess in this biographical film about Harriet Tubman, which received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the American abolitionist.
His acting career also moved into television with a leading role in Hulu’s adaptation of Conversations with Friends (2022), based on the novel by Sally Rooney. Alwyn played Nick Conway, a married actor entangled in a complex relationship. The series explored themes of love, emotional distance, and vulnerability—all of which played to Alwyn’s strengths as a subtle and introspective performer.
Music Collaboration with Taylor Swift
Though primarily known for his acting, Joe Alwyn surprised many by stepping into the music world—quietly, yet significantly.
Under the pseudonym William Bowery, Alwyn co-wrote two songs on Taylor Swift’s critically acclaimed album Folklore (2020):
“Exile” (featuring Bon Iver)
“Betty”
Both tracks were praised for their storytelling, emotional depth, and poetic lyrics. In fact, Folklore went on to win Album of the Year at the 2021 Grammy Awards, earning Alwyn a Grammy as a co-writer.
He didn’t stop there. On Swift’s follow-up album Evermore (2020), he co-wrote three more songs:
“Champagne Problems”
“Coney Island”
“Evermore”
Alwyn even co-produced some of these tracks, revealing a deeper level of involvement. While many were surprised to learn of his contributions, those close to the couple noted that music had always been a shared interest and creative outlet for them.
Relationship with Taylor Swift
Joe Alwyn and Taylor Swift’s relationship was one of the most private—and intriguing—celebrity romances in recent memory. The two reportedly met in 2016 and managed to keep their relationship largely out of the public eye for years. This intentional privacy allowed them to grow closer away from media scrutiny.
Swift often credited Alwyn as a grounding presence in her life. In interviews, she hinted at how important emotional stability was to her, especially after years of high-profile breakups and public attention. Their creative collaboration on Folklore and Evermore became a unique hallmark of their bond.
Though unconfirmed, reports in 2023 suggested the couple had quietly split after six years together. Neither party has publicly addressed the details, maintaining the same privacy that defined their relationship.
Awards and Recognition
While Alwyn hasn’t yet amassed a long list of awards for his acting, his talents haven’t gone unnoticed. His contribution to Folklore earned him a Grammy Award, making him one of the few actors to also win music’s highest honor.
His performances in ensemble films have often been praised, and critics continue to commend his ability to convey deep emotion with subtle gestures—a skill that is harder to master than it may appear.
Personal Life and Interests
Despite his growing fame, Joe Alwyn has remained relatively low-key. He’s not very active on social media and rarely gives interviews. When he does speak publicly, his tone is thoughtful and grounded.
He has expressed a love for literature, music, and the arts more broadly—interests that no doubt shaped his collaborations and acting choices. Alwyn has also spoken about the challenges of fame, especially when it comes to balancing a personal life with public attention.
Recent and Upcoming Projects
Alwyn continues to take on roles that challenge him artistically. Most recently, he appeared in the period drama The Favourite (2018), directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, and has reportedly signed on for upcoming film projects with acclaimed directors.
As he transitions into more mature roles, audiences can expect to see him explore characters that reflect both emotional complexity and narrative depth.
Conclusion
Joe Alwyn is far more than just a headline figure or a Hollywood heartthrob. He’s a thoughtful actor, a talented writer, and someone who clearly values artistry over fame. Whether he’s portraying emotionally torn characters on screen or penning heartfelt lyrics behind the scenes, his creative range continues to impress.
As he steps into the next phase of his career, it’s clear that Joe Alwyn is a name we’ll be hearing a lot more of—for all the right reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies is Joe Alwyn known for?
Joe Alwyn is best known for his roles in Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, Mary Queen of Scots, Harriet, and Boy Erased.
Did Joe Alwyn win a Grammy?
Yes, he won a Grammy Award for his contributions to Taylor Swift’s Folklore, which won Album of the Year in 2021.
What songs did Joe Alwyn co-write with Taylor Swift?
He co-wrote “Exile” and “Betty” on Folklore, and “Champagne Problems,” “Coney Island,” and “Evermore” on Evermore.
Are Joe Alwyn and Taylor Swift still together?
While never officially confirmed, multiple sources reported in 2023 that the couple had split after nearly six years together.
What is Joe Alwyn working on next?
While specific titles have yet to be announced, Alwyn is expected to appear in new film projects that align with his taste for character-driven storytelling.