You’ve seen the TikToks. The ones where they’re laughing in an elevator or “accidentally” holding hands in a crowded New York street. If you’ve been anywhere near the internet in the last few months, you know the names McKenna Grace and Mason Thames. They are the current "it" duo of Hollywood, the kind of pairing that makes fan accounts go into a total frenzy. But honestly? The reality of their relationship is way more interesting than the 15-second clips suggest.
People keep trying to put them in a box. Are they dating? Are they just "PR friends" for their new movie? It’s a bit of both and neither.
The Colleen Hoover Connection
Everything basically exploded when it was announced they’d be playing Clara and Miller in the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s Regretting You. If you know the book, you know it’s heavy. It’s about secrets, grief, and that messy, first-love feeling that usually ends in a lot of tears.
When you cast two of the most talented actors of their generation—McKenna, who’s been a pro since she was six, and Mason, who basically carried The Black Phone on his back—expectations are sky-high. But the chemistry wasn’t just "movie magic."
They actually met for the first time in an Uber. Seriously. They were on their way to see Deadpool & Wolverine before filming even started. Mason told People that instead of it being that awkward "nice to meet you" actor vibe, they just clicked immediately. By the time they got to the set of Regretting You in early 2025, they weren't strangers. They were already best friends.
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Why the Internet is Obsessed
It’s the "elevator video" that really did it. You know the one—the 500 Days of Summer recreation. It went viral because it felt too real.
Here’s the thing about McKenna Grace and Mason Thames: they aren't your typical media-trained robots. McKenna is known for being incredibly open with her fans, and Mason has this sort of old-school, grounded Texas energy. When they started posting together, it didn't feel like a studio-mandated marketing campaign. It felt like two teenagers having the time of their lives while working a very strange job.
During the press tour for Regretting You in October 2025, things got even louder. They were spotted holding hands in SoHo. They went to aquariums together (apparently McKenna has a specific "aquarium playlist" they share). At the Berlin premiere, the way they looked at each other on the red carpet basically broke Twitter.
Beyond the Romance Rumors
While everyone is busy shipping "Mckenason," it’s easy to forget just how much work these two are putting in. They didn't just stop at one movie. They actually filmed a second project together called New Year’s Rev.
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It’s a music comedy produced by Green Day. Imagine a road trip movie with teenage rockers trying to open for Billie Joe Armstrong. It’s a total 180 from the emotional weight of a Colleen Hoover story. Mason plays a character named Sheridan, and from what we know, the vibe is way more chaotic and fun.
What's coming next for them in 2026?
Their schedules are actually insane. If you think they’re just going to be "that couple from that one romance movie," you’re wrong.
- Mason Thames is hitting the prestigious circuit. He’s starring in The Shitheads, which is set to premiere at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. He’s working alongside heavy hitters like Peter Dinklage and Dave Franco. Plus, we still have the live-action How to Train Your Dragon and the Black Phone sequel on the horizon.
- McKenna Grace is arguably one of the busiest people in the world. She’s joining the Hunger Games universe as Maysilee Donner in Sunrise on the Reaping. She’s also rumored to be in Scream 7 and is returning for Five Nights at Freddy's 2.
The "Favorite Person" Reality
During an interview on Today with Jenna and Friends, McKenna called Mason her "favorite person." That’s a big label. Mason returned the sentiment, calling her "the closest person to me."
Whether they are officially a "couple" in the way the tabloids want them to be isn't really the point. In a town like Hollywood, finding someone who actually understands the pressure of growing up on screen is rare. They’ve both been working since they were kids. They both have that weirdly specific experience of being "famous" before they could even drive.
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That bond—that "aquarium-playlist-sharing" kind of friendship—is what makes their on-screen chemistry so palpable. They trust each other.
What You Should Do Now
If you’re a fan or just someone curious about why these two are everywhere, here is how to actually keep up without falling for the fake "leaks" on TikTok:
- Watch Regretting You first. To understand the hype, you have to see the performances. It’s not just a teen romance; it’s a masterclass in acting from both of them.
- Follow their actual social accounts. McKenna is active on Instagram and TikTok (@mckennagrace), and Mason (@masonthames) usually posts behind-the-scenes stuff that’s way more authentic than the fan edits.
- Keep an eye on Sundance 2026. Mason’s role in The Shitheads is expected to be his "adult" breakout role, moving him away from the teen heartthrob label.
- Check out McKenna’s music. People forget she’s a singer-songwriter too. Her lyrics often give a lot more insight into her life than any red carpet interview ever could.
The story of McKenna Grace and Mason Thames isn't just about a rumored romance. It’s about two of the most talented actors of the new generation finding a partner-in-crime while they navigate the transition from child stars to legitimate Hollywood powerhouses.