Grace Van Patten and Jackson White, the adored duo from Hulu’s hit series Tell Me Lies, turned heads at the 2025 Academy Museum Gala, not only with their undeniable chemistry but also with Van Patten’s daring fashion choice of a sheer, braless gown, further cementing their status as a real-life power couple.
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, the annual Academy Museum Gala was illuminated by the presence of Tell Me Lies co-stars and real-life couple Grace Van Patten and Jackson White. Their joint appearance was a masterclass in glamour, with both actors opting for sophisticated all-black ensembles. While White, 29, looked impeccably dapper in a classic tux and matching bowtie, Van Patten, 28, captivated attention with a bold fashion choice that left little to the imagination.
Van Patten embraced the popular “naked dress” trend, stunning in an off-the-shoulder, sheer gown which she wore without a bra. This calculated risk showcased her curves and made a definitive fashion statement on the red carpet. She accessorized her look with a chic black choker necklace and a delicate gold chain. Her glam featured a smoky eye, a rose-colored lip, and her signature blonde tresses styled in loose, elegant waves. Her ensemble, which included archival Margiela x Galliano with Alevì Milano shoes and Cartier jewels, perfectly complemented White’s Canali attire.
A Journey from On-Screen Chemistry to Real-Life Love
The romance between Grace Van Patten and Jackson White has been a subject of fascination for fans since they first graced screens as Lucy Albright and Stephen DeMarco in Hulu’s Tell Me Lies. Their on-screen portrayal of a complex, tumultuous relationship fueled speculation about their off-screen connection, which officially blossomed into a real-life romance in 2022.
Their journey began under unique circumstances, as Van Patten candidly shared during an appearance on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast. “I didn’t like Jackson,” she recalled, reflecting on their initial Zoom chemistry reads during the COVID-19 pandemic. She admitted to seeing him as a “serious, actor-y actor” and was initially put off. However, their dynamic shifted dramatically when they met in person.
Van Patten described an instant connection, saying, “We vibed instantly.” That very night, after hours of discussion on a stoop about why they shouldn’t act on their burgeoning feelings, Van Patten took the leap and kissed him. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of their romantic relationship, much to the delight of their growing fanbase.
Fashion-Forward and Fearless: Grace Van Patten’s Style Evolution
Grace Van Patten’s daring choice at the Academy Museum Gala is hardly a surprise to those familiar with her approach to fashion. The actress has long expressed her interest in experimenting with style. “I’ve always been interested in fashion. It’s something that I’m so fascinated by and love to watch people experiment with,” she told Fashionista in 2021.
She describes her style as “ever-changing” and driven by visual appeal rather than technical knowledge, a philosophy that empowers her to take risks and explore new looks on the red carpet. Her confidence in embracing the “naked dress” trend, previously seen on stars like Heidi Klum and Dakota Johnson, underscores her commitment to personal expression through fashion.
Jackson White’s Family Connection and Fan Anticipation for ‘Tell Me Lies’ Season 3
Jackson White, son of renowned actress Katey Sagal, has also been candid about the challenges and unique experiences of working on a steamy drama like Tell Me Lies. Reports surfaced that even White’s stepdad found it “hard” to watch the show’s intense sex scenes, highlighting the intimate nature of the production.
The couple recently wrapped filming for the highly anticipated third season of Tell Me Lies. Van Patten hinted at what’s to come, exclusively telling Us Weekly that fans are “in for a crazy ride this season!” She described it as potentially the “messiest yet” and a “peak of all these characters’ worst decisions,” building immense excitement within the fan community for the show’s return.
Their romance first garnered significant attention when they were spotted hand-in-hand at the CFDA Fashion Awards in November, prior to the gala. Further fueling the speculation, White posted a picture of him and Van Patten kissing on Instagram, playfully captioning it, “if we kiss can we get a s2 @hulu.” This public display of affection was widely reported by outlets like Popsugar, delighting fans eager for confirmation of their real-life chemistry.
The Enduring Appeal of Hollywood Romances
The real-life romance between Grace Van Patten and Jackson White is a story that resonates deeply with fans, echoing the classic Hollywood narrative of co-stars falling in love. It adds another layer of intrigue to their already compelling performances in Tell Me Lies, a show that masterfully explores the complexities of young adult relationships.
As they continue to navigate their careers and their relationship, their public appearances and candid revelations offer a glimpse into a connection that began with a reluctant Zoom call and blossomed into one of Hollywood’s most watched romances, captivating a devoted fanbase eager for every new chapter.
