Elle Fanning’s relationship with Gus Wenner, Rolling Stone’s executive chairman and heir to a media empire, signals a merging of Hollywood stardom and legacy media power, with ripple effects for both industries.
Elle Fanning, fresh off her first Oscar nomination for Sentimental Value, and Gus Wenner, the man steering Rolling Stone into its next era, represent a Hollywood pairing that transcends tabloid curiosity. Their relationship, which began in 2023 and debuted publicly at the 2024 Golden Globes, is a narrative about media dynasties, modern celebrity, and the synergy between film and journalism.
Born into Media Royalty
Gus Wenner‘s connection to Rolling Stone is hereditary. He is the son of Jann Wenner, who co-founded the iconic magazine in 1967. This lineage has shaped Gus’s worldview; he has publicly called his father his “best friend” and “mentor,” a bond highlighted in a Father’s Day tributeBrown Alumni Magazine.
His entry into the family business was deliberately humble. After graduating from Brown University in 2012, Wenner accepted a “lowly” entry-level position at Rolling Stone, despite his father’s warning that it might “go nowhere.” Wenner later recalled telling his father, “I just want to learn for a year and then move on”—a modest start that catalyzed a swift rise through the ranksBrown Alumni Magazine.
Leading Rolling Stone Into the Digital Age
Wenner’s career trajectory accelerated when he was named CEO of Rolling Stone in January 2022, a pivotal appointment as the brand expanded its digital focusAdweek. Prior to this, he had served as president and COO since 2017, roles that laid the groundwork for his leadershipPMC.
In May 2025, Wenner transitioned to executive chairman, with Julian Holguin assuming the CEO role to pursue strategic initiatives. This shift freed Wenner to launch Wenner Media Ventures in early 2026, which made its inaugural investment in the social media platform Public Opinion, with Wenner as its executive chairmanThe Hollywood Reporter.
The Musical Side of Gus Wenner
Beyond media, Wenner has a creative past. During his time at Brown, he formed the folk-rock duo Gus + Scout with Scout Willis, daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore. The band released a self-titled EP in 2012, capturing a brief but memorable chapter in Wenner’s lifeW Magazine.
Scout Willis later described their relationship as one that evolved from childhood acquaintances to musical collaborators in college, underscoring Wenner’s long-standing ties to entertainment circlesW Magazine.
A Hollywood Romance Takes Center Stage
Elle Fanning and Gus Wenner were first linked in November 2023, when they were photographed holding hands during a dinner date in New York CityPage Six. The couple, who have been together since 2023, chose the 81st Golden Globe Awards in January 2024 for their official red carpet debut, a moment that solidified their status in Hollywood’s social hierarchyPeople.
Fanning has been notably open about the relationship. In a January 2026 interview with Who What Wear, she praised Wenner as “the best” and shared their philosophy: “We want to be a part of each other’s lives and share these fun times and experiences together.” When questioned about social media transparency, she responded, “Why hide? The future looks bright.”AOL.com
The actress also revealed aspirations for a family, stating, “I definitely do want kids. I’ve always wanted kids.” This glimpse into their private plans adds depth to a public romance.
Why This Couple Captivates and What It Means
The Fanning-Wenner partnership is significant for several interconnected reasons. First, it bridges the gap between cinematic acclaim and media influence. Fanning’s 2026 Oscar nomination for Sentimental ValueAOL.com positions her among film’s elite, while Wenner’s stewardship of Rolling Stone and his new investment ventures tie him to the evolving media and tech landscapes.
Their public displays of affection—from red carpet appearances to Fanning’s Valentine’s Day tribute calling Wenner her “funny Valentine”—reflect a modern couple unafraid of scrutiny. Wenner’s reciprocal engagement on social media, including heart emoji reactions, showcases a mutually supportive dynamic that resonates with fansAOL.com.
Wenner’s cultural capital extends beyond business. His deep appreciation for music, evident in his designation of Bob Dylan as his lifelong “hero” and memories of meeting the legend as a child, roots him in a legacy that complements Fanning’s artistic worldBrown Alumni Magazine. This shared appreciation for creative industries suggests a partnership that could influence cross-promotion, from film coverage in music publications to artist collaborations.
For entertainment observers, this relationship exemplifies how legacy media families are integrating with Hollywood’s new generation. As Wenner navigates digital investments and Fanning pursues award-season glory, their union may shape narratives in both spheres—from how stories are told to who tells them.
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