Sarah Paulson is no stranger to the spotlight. With an Emmy-winning career and a reputation for fearless fashion, the American Horror Story star is typically the center of attention wherever she goes. But this week, the 50-year-old actress found herself in a new—and slightly more humbling—role: trying to keep her composure while seated beside a screen legend at Paris Fashion Week.
At the AMI Paris fashion show, Paulson was spotted sitting next to none other than Catherine Deneuve, the iconic French actress whose career has spanned more than six decades. At 81, Deneuve remains a symbol of classic European beauty and refined elegance, rarely making public appearances, which made her presence at the show all the more striking.
In a now-viral clip circulating on social media, Paulson is seen greeting Deneuve with her trademark poise. But as the camera lingers, it’s clear that even Hollywood’s most composed stars can be a little awestruck in the presence of cinematic royalty. Paulson keeps a polite smile, exchanging pleasantries, but subtly leans back as if trying not to intrude—or let her inner fangirl show.
Fans quickly noticed the moment and flooded comment sections with praise for both women. “Sarah pretending everything is normal,” one person joked, capturing the understated tension of the encounter. Another added simply, “Sublime Catherine Deneuve.” Other commenters highlighted the veteran actress’s enduring charm, calling her “naturally elegant” and saying, “She is still gorgeous.”
For her part, Deneuve exuded the effortless glamour she’s long been known for. Dressed in a black ensemble with her signature honey-blonde hair swept back, she looked every inch the fashion icon. Though she has rarely been seen in public in recent years, her appearance reminded many why she remains such a revered figure in French and international cinema. Best known for her roles in films like Belle de Jour, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, and Indochine, Deneuve’s presence was a highlight of the fashion week event.
Paulson, meanwhile, managed to do what few could—sit beside an icon without losing her cool. While the moment may have been intimidating, she handled it with the grace and subtle humor her fans love. As one commenter put it, “And the award goes to Sarah Paulson—for staying cool in the presence of greatness.”
Whether sharing the screen or the front row, Paulson continues to prove she belongs among Hollywood’s most respected talents. And this week in Paris, she reminded everyone that even the most seasoned stars can be starstruck—especially when sitting next to one of the most iconic actresses of all time.
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