For decades, Viggo Mortensen has captivated audiences with his rugged charm, intense performances, and fearless dedication to his craft. But beyond his Hollywood success, another side of the actor has sparked curiosity—one that involves a deep, passionate connection with a certain man in his life.
Over the years, Mortensen has been photographed sharing affectionate moments with this individual, fueling speculation and whispers about his personal life. Now, at 66, the three-time Academy Award nominee is finally addressing the lingering question: Is there more to the story?
From Global Nomad to Hollywood Star
Born in Watertown, New York, to a Danish father and an American mother, Mortensen’s early years were anything but conventional. He lived in Venezuela, Denmark, and Argentina before settling in the U.S. at age 11. Acting wasn’t initially in his plans—he held odd jobs as a truck driver and flower seller in Denmark before fate led him to Hollywood.
His first break in The Purple Rose of Cairo (1985) was short-lived—his scenes were cut. But he persevered, landing steady roles before earning recognition in G.I. Jane (1997). Then came the moment that changed everything: stepping into the role of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Mortensen fully embodied the warrior-king, performing his own stunts, breaking bones on set, and earning the title of “best swordsman” from the film’s fight choreographer. His dedication to the role was so intense that director Peter Jackson once called him “Aragorn” for over half an hour—without realizing it.
A Creative Bond That Raised Eyebrows
Beyond his on-screen heroics, Mortensen’s close relationship with legendary director David Cronenberg has long intrigued fans. The two first connected at the Cannes Film Festival in 2001, striking up an instant creative chemistry.
They collaborated on A History of Violence (2005), Eastern Promises (2007), and A Dangerous Method (2011), with Mortensen praising Cronenberg as one of his greatest artistic influences. Their deep admiration for each other, both professionally and personally, has only fueled speculation.
Addressing the Rumors
For years, whispers swirled around Mortensen’s personal life. He’s always been private, but in a recent interview, he finally tackled the subject head-on.
"I’ve never felt the need to put a label on myself," Mortensen admitted. "But if people wonder whether I’m entirely straight, well… maybe I’m not. Who really is?"
His statement left fans both intrigued and appreciative of his candidness. Mortensen has always defied Hollywood conventions—whether in his acting choices, his offbeat artistic pursuits, or now, his approach to personal identity.
Regardless of labels, one thing is clear: Viggo Mortensen remains a force of nature, both on and off the screen.
For decades, Viggo Mortensen has mesmerized audiences with his raw talent, rugged charm, and fearless approach to acting. But beyond his Hollywood triumphs, one relationship has fueled speculation—a deep, undeniable bond with director David Cronenberg.
Over the years, Mortensen has been seen sharing lingering, affectionate kisses with Cronenberg at public events, raising eyebrows and sparking whispers. Now, at 66, the Lord of the Rings star is finally addressing the speculation, and his answer may surprise you.
A Bond That Goes Beyond Filmmaking
Their story began at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival when Mortensen, fresh off the success of The Lord of the Rings, met Cronenberg. The connection was instant. Just four years later, they teamed up for A History of Violence (2005), a film hailed as one of the best of the decade.
Mortensen later admitted, “I don’t think I’ve ever felt more on the same wavelength with a director as I am with David.”
Their professional relationship deepened with Eastern Promises (2007) and A Dangerous Method (2011), each project further solidifying their unique connection. Cronenberg, in turn, praised Mortensen as “his kind of actor,” someone who could effortlessly balance the gravitas of a leading man with the depth of a character actor.
Then came the moment that set Hollywood abuzz.
The Kiss That Sparked Rumors
At a press event in 2006, following their cinematic triumph, Mortensen and Cronenberg shared an affectionate, lingering kiss in front of the cameras. It was a bold, unfiltered moment—one that left audiences questioning the true nature of their bond.
The speculation only grew in 2014 when Mortensen presented Cronenberg with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Canadian Screen Awards. Standing before a room full of Hollywood elites, he passionately declared the director “the finest filmmaker and the sanest man I know.” Then, without hesitation, he leaned in and kissed him—again.
The moment was electric, an undeniable testament to their admiration and closeness.
‘I May Not Be Entirely Straight’
With such an intimate and affectionate dynamic, it’s no surprise Mortensen has faced questions about his sexuality. And for the first time, he’s addressing it head-on.
“People ask if I’m gay or straight,” he said in a candid interview. “I guess you could say I’m not entirely straight.”
His comments came in response to criticism about his role in Falling (2020), a film he wrote, directed, and starred in as a gay man caring for his homophobic father. When questioned about whether a straight actor should portray a gay character, he responded with his signature bluntness:
“How do you know what my life is? You’re assuming I’m completely straight. Maybe I am, maybe I’m not. And frankly, it’s none of your business.”
Love Beyond Labels
For Mortensen, love and connection transcend definitions. His relationship with Cronenberg remains one of the most unique and passionate friendships in Hollywood—built on mutual admiration, creative synergy, and an unspoken understanding.
“We’re professionals, despite the tomfoolery,” Cronenberg once said. “We respect each other enough to say no, but we enjoy the process like no other.”
Mortensen’s Romantic Life
Beyond his close bond with Cronenberg, Mortensen has had significant relationships. He married singer Exene Cervenka in 1987, and they welcomed a son, Henry, before divorcing in 1997. Since 2009, he has been in a long-term relationship with Spanish actress Ariadna Gil.
As for Cronenberg, the acclaimed director was married to Carolyn Zeifman from 1979 until her passing in 2017.
The Final Word
Mortensen has never been one to conform—to Hollywood norms, to industry expectations, or even to labels about his own identity. His deep bond with Cronenberg, while unconventional, remains a testament to their rare connection—one that defies easy categorization.
And as Mortensen himself says, maybe that’s exactly the point.