Perhaps you might recall the sc--dal that graced magazine covers nearly a decade ago. Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson had what seemed like the perfect relationship, at least when they were in the public eye.
Bella Swan and Edward Cullen, the love story that transcended the screen and kindled real-life romance. It was the ideal ending to the Twilight saga, a phenomenon that sent fans into a frenzy worldwide and forever altered the lives of its lead actors. Their sudden ascent to fame brought along consequences; from relative obscurity, they found themselves relentlessly pursued by the paparazzi.
The relentless media scrutiny took its toll on them, particularly when Kristen Stewart was caught by cameras in an affectionate embrace with someone who wasn't her partner. This happened in 2012, the same year "Snow White and the Huntsman" was released, a film directed by Rupert Sanders, who had more than a strictly professional relationship with its star, Kristen Stewart.
The images, including ones where they were seen kissing inside a car, were unequivocal, leaving no room for denial. Stewart was compelled to provide public explanations, expressing deep regret for the hurt and embarrassment she had caused to those close to her and everyone affected.
She termed her infidelity a "momentary indiscretion" and directed an apology to her then-partner, Robert Pattinson: "You have endangered the most important thing in my life, the person I love and respect the most, Rob. I love him, I love him, I am very sorry."
Director Rupert Sanders, married with two children, also found himself having to publicly account for his actions. He explained, "My beautiful wife and my heavenly children are all I have in this world. I love them with all my heart.
I pray that we can get through this together." Both Sanders' marriage to the model Liberty Ross and the relationship between Kristen and Robert couldn't weather the storm caused by the affair. Both actors, who have always preferred to keep their private lives away from the spotlight, intensified their discretion, especially after the incident. Post-breakup, Pattinson shared that "the hardest part was talking about it afterward."
