Timothée Chalamet and Elle Fanning Discuss A Complete Unknown in Viral Interview with Tracy Gilchrist

Timothée Chalamet, 29, and Elle Fanning, 26, stars of the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, recently revisited a viral internet moment during an interview with journalist Tracy Gilchrist.

Known for her interaction with Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in November, Gilchrist brought the “holding space” meme into the spotlight again on December 28.

Gilchrist began the interview by saying, “First off, I just want to let you know that I am holding space for you.”

Chalamet and Fanning, who portray Dylan and Sylvie Russo in the film, responded by recreating the viral interaction. Chalamet extended his index finger, which Fanning pinched lightly—a humorous nod to Grande and Erivo’s moment.

The Origin of the ‘Holding Space’ Meme

The phrase “holding space” first gained traction during Gilchrist’s November interview with Grande and Erivo, who star in the upcoming Wicked.

At that time, Gilchrist mentioned how the LGBTQ+ community resonated with the lyrics of “Defying Gravity.” She said, “People are taking the lyrics of ‘Defying Gravity’ and really holding space with that and feeling power in that.”

Erivo, moved by the sentiment, grew visibly emotional, saying, “I didn’t know that was happening. That’s really powerful. That’s what I wanted.”

Grande, noticing her co-star’s reaction, offered support by gently clutching Erivo’s index finger and tapping it with her acrylic nails.

Grande later admitted in an interview with Variety that she was uncertain about the meaning of “holding space” but acted instinctively to comfort Erivo.

Timothée and Elle’s Take on the Meme

When Gilchrist brought up “holding space” with Chalamet and Fanning, the duo responded with lighthearted humor. “It’s an honor talking to you. I feel sort of starstruck,” Chalamet said.

Fanning added, “There’s nothing we can do to top what happened. We can try, but you know what I mean?” Their playful recreation of the iconic interaction delighted fans and further cemented the meme’s place in pop culture.

Clarifying the Phrase

The phrase “holding space” sparked widespread curiosity when the original interview went viral.

In a video on Out magazine’s Instagram, GLAAD’s Tony Morrison explained its meaning: “Holding space is to physically, emotionally, and mentally be present with something or someone. It’s granting yourself that pause to sit with your emotion.”

Grande, reflecting on the moment in her Variety interview, said she was relieved that others shared her initial confusion.

“I feel really relieved that the world had the same experience with this moment that I did,” she admitted. “The best thing to do is to really hold space with that.”

A Complete Unknown’s Journey

Released on December 25, A Complete Unknown follows the life of Bob Dylan, with Chalamet portraying the legendary musician and Fanning as Sylvie Russo.

Directed by James Mangold, the biopic delves into Dylan’s early career, relationships, and the cultural shifts he influenced.

Chalamet and Fanning’s dynamic performances have been praised by audiences and critics alike. Their on-screen chemistry, paired with the film’s engaging narrative, has made it a standout project in the genre of musical biopics.

Connection to Wicked

Wicked, starring Grande and Erivo, is another cinematic adaptation capturing hearts this season.

The film explores the untold story of the witches from The Wizard of Oz and features iconic songs like “Defying Gravity.” Released in theaters on November 22, it has drawn comparisons to A Complete Unknown for its emotional depth and cultural resonance.

Gilchrist’s interviews with both sets of stars have sparked meaningful conversations about the role of art in connecting communities and evoking personal reflection.

Her viral catchphrase, “holding space,” has become a symbol of empathy and emotional presence.

Impact of Viral Moments

The “holding space” meme’s popularity underscores the power of authentic interactions in media.

Whether it’s Grande supporting Erivo during a vulnerable moment or Chalamet and Fanning’s humorous acknowledgment of the phrase, these instances resonate deeply with audiences.

They remind us of the human connections that art and storytelling can inspire.

Both A Complete Unknown and Wicked continue to play in theaters, offering viewers a chance to experience these powerful narratives.

As fans embrace these films, they’re also celebrating the cultural moments that bring them together—holding space, one interaction at a time.