The entire Fiennes family has something of a reputation for reticence and Joseph, brother of The English Patient star Ralph and film director Martha, is no exception. But the Shakespeare In Love actor’s private life is slightly less private since his secret romance with make-up artist Fiona Jolly has come to light.
Joseph, 31, managed to keep his relationship with the 29-year-old blonde under wraps for a year, but the two were recently spotted canoodling and looking very much a couple during a game of tennis at courts close to Joseph’s home in London’s Notting Hill.
Although he is an international star, the actor – who had a very public fling with catwalk queen Naomi Campbell – has always shied away from the Hollywood merry-go-round. “Joseph hates being seen as a star and wants to lead as normal life as possible,” says a friend. “Fiona is perfect for him as she is used to celebrities and isn’t fazed by them. She is as down to earth as he is and hates all the falseness and pretension you find in showbusiness circles.”
The couple, who were introduced by mutual friends at a dinner party, live just five minutes away from each other. “They are very, very happy together and there has been talk of them moving in together,” added the friend. “But it is too early to say which way it will go.”
Fiona, who works on celebrity fashion shoots, used to date Ben Scott Thomas, the brother of The English Patient star Kristin Scott Thomas, and had a brief relationship with photographer Andrew Dunn. As well as Naomi, Joseph’s exes include girlfriend of seven years Sara Griffiths and Braveheart actress Catherine McCormack.
For the full story and more pictures of Joseph's new love see Issue 666 of HELLO! Magazine, on sale next week
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
