Did you know Timothée Chalamet has a surprising connection to Liverpool? It’s not just a fleeting interest—it’s a story that blends music, football, and a bit of mystery. But here’s where it gets intriguing: it all started with a rumor. Last year, whispers emerged that the Hollywood heartthrob might be the masked Merseyside rapper EsDeeKid. During a BBC interview promoting his film Marty Supreme, Chalamet playfully dodged the question, referencing the iconic Liverpool phrase, 'chicken and a can of coke,' and teasing, 'You’ll see all in due time.' And this is the part most people miss: just days later, he dropped a video clip of himself rapping alongside EsDeeKid, fueling the speculation even further.
But the Liverpool connection doesn’t stop there. At the 2026 Critics' Choice ceremony, Chalamet struck up a conversation with young actor Owen Cooper after spotting a photo of Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota on his phone. Cooper, a teenager from Warrington (just 20 miles from Liverpool), clarified he wasn’t from Merseyside, joking, 'I don’t have a Scouse accent.' Yet, this wasn’t the beginning of Chalamet’s fascination with the city.
Here’s where it gets controversial: Liverpool filmmaker Archie Erskine, who directed the EsDeeKid rap video, hinted that Chalamet’s involvement was a nod to the city’s long-underrepresented rap scene. Erskine told GQ that Chalamet’s lyric, 'I got a can of Coke and that cheque in,' was a deliberate shoutout to Liverpool’s rap heritage. 'There are so many great artists people will now be exposed to,' Erskine added. But is Chalamet’s interest genuine, or just a clever PR move? It’s a question that’s sparked debate among fans.
Adding another layer to this story, Liverpool FC enthusiasts unearthed a childhood photo of Chalamet alongside current Liverpool player Joe Gomez. The image, shared by the Manhattan Kickers, shows the two boys kneeling side by side during a youth tournament. While they played for different teams, the photo has become a symbol of Chalamet’s unexpected ties to the city.
So, what’s the real story behind Chalamet’s Liverpool love affair? Is it a genuine passion, a strategic career move, or a bit of both? We want to hear from you: What do you think about Chalamet’s connection to Liverpool? Let us know in the comments below! And while you’re at it, check out the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds or follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram for more stories like this. Got a story idea? Send it via WhatsApp to 0808 100 2230.
