Jennifer Love Hewitt and Sarah Michelle Gellar: The Truth About Their Relationship After 'I Know What You Did Last Summer'

Jennifer Love Hewitt Clears the Air on Sarah Michelle Gellar Relationship: 'We've Not Talked' Since 1997

Jennifer Love Hewitt has addressed the long-standing rumors of a feud with Sarah Michelle Gellar, her co-star from the 1997 hit movie, I Know What You Did Last Summer. In a recent interview, Hewitt revealed that she and Gellar have not spoken since the release of the original film, despite ongoing speculation about tension between the two actresses.

Hewitt Addresses "Feud" Rumors

In an interview with Vulture published on July 18, 2025, Hewitt directly addressed the rumors that have persisted for decades. "Literally, we've not talked since I saw her at 18 years old when the first movie came out," Hewitt stated. She expressed confusion over the continuous "feud" narrative, suggesting that "people don't want the narrative to be easy" and that stories of conflict are often more appealing.

Hewitt emphasized that "on my side, we're good," indicating that she harbors no ill feelings towards Gellar. This statement aims to put an end to the persistent speculation that has surrounded their relationship since the late 1990s.

The 'I Know What You Did Last Summer' Sequel Premiere: Igniting Old Flames?

The premiere of the new I Know What You Did Last Summer sequel in Los Angeles on July 14, 2025, inadvertently reignited the feud rumors. Both Jennifer Love Hewitt and Sarah Michelle Gellar attended the event, but fans quickly noticed that they were not photographed together.

Gellar's Explanation on Instagram

Social media quickly buzzed with renewed speculation. On July 16, 2025, Sarah Michelle Gellar responded to the rumors on Instagram, clarifying that she "never got to see @jenniferlovehewitt" at the premiere. She explained that she was inside with her children during the main red carpet event and that Hewitt did not attend the after-party.

"If you have ever been to one of these it's crazy. I sadly didn't get pics with most of the cast. But that doesn't change how amazing I think they all are. Unfortunately some things happen only in real life and not online," Gellar posted, highlighting the chaotic nature of such events and emphasizing that the lack of a photograph did not indicate any animosity.

Hewitt's Instagram Post: Acknowledging the Original Cast

Adding to the social media conversation, Jennifer Love Hewitt posted on Instagram on July 17, 2025, celebrating the new film and acknowledging the original cast. She stated that they hold "a special place in my teenage heart," further dispelling rumors of any personal conflict.

The 1997 Film: The Last Time They Spoke?

The original I Know What You Did Last Summer film, released in 1997, marked the beginning of the on-screen association between Hewitt and Gellar. Hewitt's recent statements suggest that this was also the last time they had any direct communication.

Flashback to December 2024: Gellar's Response and Clarification

In December 2024, speculation about a feud was renewed when Sarah Michelle Gellar gave what was perceived as an abrupt response to a question about Hewitt joining the I Know What You Did Last Summer sequel. This occurred at a red carpet event for Dexter: Original Sin. Gellar later clarified that her reaction was due to a non-disclosure agreement, not any personal issue with Hewitt.

Hewitt on Script Notes: Addressing Another Rumor

Around the same time in December 2024, Jennifer Love Hewitt addressed a persistent rumor that she had Gellar's character killed off in the original film. During an episode of the I've Never Said This Before with Tommy DiDario podcast, Hewitt clarified, "I was 18. They were not taking script notes from me." This statement aimed to dispel another long-standing rumor surrounding their relationship and the film's production.

Stakeholders in the "Feud" Narrative

The primary stakeholders driving the "feud" narrative are the fans and the media. Based on past interactions (or lack thereof) and recent non-interactions at the premiere, speculation has continued to fuel the rumors. Both actresses, however, have consistently downplayed the idea of any animosity.

The Core Controversy: A Manufactured Feud?

The core controversy lies in the ongoing public and media speculation about a decades-long feud. While both actresses have attempted to dismiss the rumors, the narrative persists. Hewitt maintains that they simply haven't been in touch since their initial film together, and Gellar has cited logistical reasons for the lack of a joint photo at the premiere.

Public Reaction and Online Commentary

Despite the actresses' explanations, many fans on social media interpret the lack of interaction as confirmation of a real feud. Other online commentators have argued that it is common for former co-stars, especially from early careers, not to maintain close contact, and that the "feud" is largely manufactured by the media and fan speculation.

Potential Consequences of the Rumors

While both actresses have downplayed any negative feelings, the persistent rumors could create an unnecessary distraction from their current projects. However, it also generates significant media attention for the new I Know What You Did Last Summer sequel, which both actresses are connected to – Hewitt as a star and Gellar through her husband's involvement and public support.