Who brings the sizzling chemistry to life in Anyone But You?
The answer lies in the dynamic and carefully selected cast of anyone but you, a group of performers who helped turn a modern romantic comedy into one of the most talked-about theatrical hits of 2023. Released at a time when big-screen rom-coms seemed rare, Anyone But You delivered humor, tension, and undeniable charm to American audiences craving something fun and heartfelt.
Directed by Will Gluck, the 2023 romantic comedy blends classic storytelling with a modern edge. At its center are two rising Hollywood stars—Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell—whose on-screen spark fuels the entire film. Set against a stunning Australian backdrop, the movie uses sharp dialogue, emotional misunderstandings, and playful rivalry to bring a timeless love story into the present.
This complete guide explores the cast of anyone but you in depth. Readers will find:
- A full cast breakdown
- Detailed character descriptions
- Career highlights of the lead and supporting actors
- Behind-the-scenes insights
- The impact of the film on Hollywood’s rom-com revival
From established veterans to emerging stars, the film’s ensemble proves that casting can make or break a romantic comedy—and in this case, it made it unforgettable.
Overview of Anyone But You
Plot Summary
Anyone But You follows Bea and Ben, two people whose first date goes wonderfully—until it does not. A misunderstanding sparks resentment, and they part ways believing they will never see each other again. Fate, however, has other plans.
Months later, they reunite at a destination wedding in Australia. To avoid awkward questions and complicated family dynamics, they pretend to be a couple. What begins as a strategic move quickly turns into a classic enemies-to-lovers scenario filled with tension, banter, and slow-burning attraction.
The story draws inspiration from Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, borrowing the playful battle of words and romantic rivalry that defined that classic tale. Like Shakespeare’s leads, Bea and Ben challenge each other at every turn—yet their emotional walls slowly break down.
The destination wedding setting provides humor, chaos, and intimate moments. Sunlit beaches, scenic cliffs, and glamorous parties create the perfect stage for romantic mishaps and heartfelt confessions.
Box Office & Popularity
Few expected a theatrical rom-com to dominate conversation in 2023, yet Anyone But You exceeded expectations. Strong word-of-mouth, repeat viewings, and viral online moments boosted its performance.
Audiences responded to the chemistry between the leads. Clips from interviews and behind-the-scenes promotions spread quickly across social media platforms. Marketing leaned heavily on the visible connection between Sweeney and Powell, helping build anticipation.
The commercial success of the film signaled something important: American moviegoers still enjoy romantic comedies on the big screen—especially when the cast feels fresh, charismatic, and relatable.
Lead Cast of Anyone But You
Sydney Sweeney as Bea
Sydney Sweeney plays Bea, an intelligent and guarded young woman navigating heartbreak and pride. Bea is sharp, emotionally complex, and determined not to appear vulnerable. She masks her feelings with sarcasm and confidence, making her an ideal match—and opponent—for Ben.
Throughout the film, Bea evolves. At first, she seems driven by ego and self-protection. But as the fake relationship unfolds, viewers see her softer side. She confronts her fears about trust and emotional risk, making her journey feel authentic.
Sweeney’s performance balances humor with sincerity. Her expressions often say more than her dialogue. She captures the awkwardness of attraction and the frustration of miscommunication in a way that feels natural.
Before leading this romantic comedy, Sweeney gained attention for dramatic roles in Euphoria and The White Lotus. Those performances showcased intensity and emotional depth. With Anyone But You, she proved she could also command a mainstream rom-com.
This role elevated her status in Hollywood. It positioned her not only as a dramatic actress but also as a bankable romantic lead capable of drawing theater audiences.
Glen Powell as Ben
Glen Powell portrays Ben, a confident yet emotionally guarded man with quick wit and effortless charm. He matches Bea’s sarcasm beat for beat, making their verbal sparring one of the film’s highlights.
Ben initially appears carefree, but subtle moments reveal his vulnerability. Powell’s performance allows audiences to see both bravado and sincerity. His comedic timing enhances even the smallest scenes.
Powell had already proven his leading-man potential in Top Gun: Maverick, where he displayed charisma and screen presence. In the Netflix romantic comedy Set It Up, he showed his knack for romantic banter.
In Anyone But You, he combines both strengths. His chemistry with Sweeney feels spontaneous rather than forced. Their exchanges, filled with teasing and tension, anchor the entire story.
Together, Sweeney and Powell carry the film with a balance of humor, attraction, and believable emotional growth.
Supporting Cast of Anyone But You
Alexandra Shipp
Alexandra Shipp plays a key role within the wedding party. Her character adds emotional complexity and tension to the story, influencing both Bea and Ben’s decisions.
Shipp brings warmth and realism to her scenes. She serves as both confidant and catalyst, pushing the main characters to confront their feelings.
Many viewers recognize Shipp from X-Men: Apocalypse, where she portrayed a younger Storm. Her transition from blockbuster action to romantic ensemble work highlights her range.
GaTa
GaTa provides much of the film’s comic relief. His natural delivery and improvisational energy inject levity into tense moments.
Known for his breakout performance in the television series Dave, GaTa brings authenticity and quick humor. His presence balances the romantic intensity with grounded, relatable comedy.
Dermot Mulroney
Dermot Mulroney adds veteran credibility to the cast. As an experienced figure within the wedding setting, he contributes emotional weight and subtle humor.
Mulroney has long been associated with romantic films, particularly My Best Friend’s Wedding. His appearance in Anyone But You creates a sense of continuity between classic rom-coms and modern ones.
Rachel Griffiths
Rachel Griffiths plays an important family figure in the story. She brings warmth, wisdom, and occasional blunt honesty.
Her performance adds depth to the family dynamics, grounding the romantic chaos in real emotional stakes.
Extended & Ensemble Cast
The extended ensemble of the cast of anyone but you fills the wedding environment with life and personality. From bridesmaids to parents and friends, each role contributes to the atmosphere.
Romantic comedies rely heavily on supporting players. They provide humor, advice, and occasional complications. In this film, the wedding guests amplify tension while also creating opportunities for vulnerability.
Ensemble chemistry matters. Scenes involving group dinners, beach outings, and party mishaps feel energetic rather than staged. The background characters react naturally, helping make the romance feel embedded in a believable world.
By combining seasoned actors with emerging talent, the film achieves a balanced dynamic that supports the central love story.
Character Dynamics & Chemistry Analysis
Enemies-to-Lovers Trope
The enemies-to-lovers formula thrives on tension. Bea and Ben’s misunderstandings create friction that drives the narrative.
Like Shakespeare’s iconic pair in Much Ado About Nothing, they use wit as a shield. Each insult hides lingering attraction. Their emotional journey unfolds gradually, making their eventual vulnerability more satisfying.
Comedic Timing & Romantic Tension
The film relies on rapid dialogue exchanges, physical mishaps, and awkward public moments. Banter fuels attraction.
Certain scenes went viral online because of their mix of humor and intimacy. Whether arguing poolside or sharing quiet reflections, the leads maintain tension that feels genuine.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Director’s Vision
Will Gluck has a history of blending sharp humor with heartfelt storytelling. In Easy A, he delivered modern wit wrapped in classic structure.
With Anyone But You, he applies similar techniques—strong female perspective, clever dialogue, and emotionally grounded romance.
Filming Locations
Australia serves as more than scenery. The bright coastal visuals contrast with the emotional turbulence between the leads.
The beaches and dramatic landscapes enhance romantic tension and cinematic appeal.
Cast Interviews & Promotions
Press appearances fueled speculation about the leads’ chemistry. Playful interviews and candid moments kept audiences engaged long after release.
Career Impact on the Cast
The success of the cast of anyone but you reshaped public perception of its stars.
Sydney Sweeney emerged as a versatile performer capable of leading mainstream comedies. Glen Powell strengthened his reputation as a modern romantic hero.
The film also proved that theatrical rom-coms can thrive. Its box office performance encouraged studios to reconsider the genre’s viability.
Why the Cast of Anyone But You Works So Well
The casting feels intentional. Sweeney’s emotional intensity complements Powell’s charm.
Veteran actors provide stability. Rising stars bring freshness.
This blend appeals to multiple generations of viewers. Younger audiences connect with the leads, while longtime rom-com fans appreciate familiar faces.
Charisma, timing, and chemistry—these qualities define the ensemble’s success.
Comparison with Classic Rom-Com Casts
Classic films like Notting Hill and 10 Things I Hate About You relied on strong central chemistry.
What makes the cast of anyone but you modern is its digital-era influence. Social media extends the film’s presence beyond theaters.
Where past casts depended on magazine interviews, this ensemble thrives on viral clips and fan edits.
Audience Reception of the Cast
American audiences embraced the film’s humor and romance.
Fans praised the chemistry between the leads. Memorable quotes circulated online. TikTok edits highlighted emotional and comedic beats.
The film became more than a movie—it became a pop culture moment.
Key Takeaways
- The cast of anyone but you blends rising stars and veteran actors.
- Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell lead with undeniable chemistry.
- Supporting cast adds depth and comedic balance.
- The ensemble revitalizes modern theatrical rom-coms.
- Strategic casting helped boost box office success.
Conclusion
The cast of anyone but you demonstrates how thoughtful casting can transform a familiar romantic formula into something vibrant and current. With star power from Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, seasoned support from respected actors, and guidance from director Will Gluck, the film bridges classic romance with modern storytelling.
Chemistry remains the heart of any romantic comedy. In this case, it feels spontaneous and authentic. The ensemble supports the leads without overshadowing them, creating a cohesive cinematic experience.
As Hollywood continues exploring theatrical romance, one question lingers: Will this cast redefine the future of romantic comedies?
