Hilary Duff recently revealed her enduring admiration for Chad Michael Murray as her favorite on-screen romantic partner. This revelation occurred during her appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” When prompted to select her top love interest among three co-stars, Duff quickly settled on Murray, who starred alongside her in the iconic film “A Cinderella Story.”
Unforgettable On-Screen Romance
In “A Cinderella Story,” Duff’s character, Sam Montgomery, develops a secret online relationship with Austin Ames, portrayed by Murray. The film, released in 2004, has since become a beloved classic among fans, known for its modern twist on the timeless fairy tale.
Memorable Scene
- Duff recalled a significant moment from the film during her interview.
- She mentioned the scene of walking up the bleachers, stating, “And the rain drop, I was like, ‘Wow, this is romantic!’”
Duff shared that she recently watched the film with her daughter, illustrating its lasting impact across generations. She also candidly noted her daughter’s curiosity about a key plot point—how Austin didn’t recognize Sam while she wore a mask. “It’s the age-old question, honey,” Duff laughed, responding to her child’s inquiry.
Real-Life Chemistry
Interestingly, Duff has previously mentioned that her chemistry with Murray extended beyond acting. During a 2016 video interview with Cosmopolitan, she admitted to having a real-life crush on her co-star while filming. She felt nervous about their kissing scenes but later became friends with him, alleviating her anxiety.
Chad Michael Murray Reflects on Their Time Together
Chad Michael Murray has also spoken highly of Duff, even years after the movie’s release. In a 2025 interview with People, he described her as “awesome” and praised her magnetic presence. “If you’ve ever met Hilary… she glows,” he remarked, emphasizing how her charisma lights up a room.
Overall, Murray reminisced about their carefree times while making the film, highlighting the fun they had as young actors. He noted that “A Cinderella Story” remains a special project in his career, with fans often quoting its memorable lines, including the famous line: “Waiting for you is like waiting for rain in this drought.”
