Emma Thompson recently revealed a startling and almost unbelievable moment from her past: on the very day her divorce from Kenneth Branagh was finalized, she got a phone call from Donald Trump asking her out on a date.
The 66-year-old actress shared this unexpected anecdote while speaking at the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland.
She was filming the 1998 movie Primary Colours, a political drama inspired by Bill Clinton’s rise to the presidency, when her phone rang — and to her surprise, it was Donald Trump on the line.
The Unexpected Phone Call From Donald Trump
At first, Emma thought the call was a prank. “It was Donald Trump. He said, ‘Hello, this is Donald Trump,’” she recounted.
“I thought it was a joke and asked, ‘How can I help you? Maybe he needed directions.’”
But Trump quickly got to the point: “I’d love you to come and stay at one of my beautiful places. Maybe we could have dinner.”
Emma responded politely, saying, “Well, that’s very sweet. Thank you so much. I’ll get back to you.”
This surprising invitation came at a time when Trump had just separated from his second wife, Marla Maples.
Back then, before his political career took off, he was focusing on building his New York real estate empire.
A Time of Personal Change for Emma Thompson
At the same time, Emma was moving on from her own high-profile relationship.
She had announced her split from Branagh in 1995 and was already developing a relationship with Greg Wise, her co-star from Sense and Sensibility, whom she would later marry.
During the Q&A session at the film festival, Emma joked that had she accepted Trump’s invitation, she might have changed the course of American history. She also speculated that Trump’s team might have been scouting for the perfect “public face” to accompany him.
“I bet he’s got people looking for suitable people he could take out on his arm.
You know, a nice divorcee, that’s what he was looking for,” she mused.
Emma’s Political Passion and Activism
Known for her strong political views and activism, Emma is a committed Labour Party supporter.
She backed Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership and his 2019 bid for Prime Minister.
Beyond politics, Emma is a passionate environmental advocate.
Just last year, she led a massive march in London called Restore Nature Now, rallying thousands to urge politicians to prioritize climate and nature conservation.
The event brought together over 350 charities, businesses, and activists, alongside figures like Dale Vince, Chris Packham, and Steve Backshall.
Honoured for Her Career Achievements
At the Locarno Film Festival, Emma was presented with the prestigious Leopard Club Award, celebrating her impressive career.
The actress’s blend of cinematic talent and outspoken social conscience continues to inspire audiences worldwide.