Published by: Sourav Kumar
Updated on: Friday, 06 June 2025
Bill Clinton Snored During Emma Screening — And Gwyneth Paltrow Just Confirmed It With a Zinger
Even U.S. presidents aren’t immune to the slow burn of a Jane Austen adaptation. Gwyneth Paltrow recently dished on a long-standing Hollywood rumor — and confirmed that former President Bill Clinton really did fall asleep and snore during the White House screening of her 1996 period film, Emma.
Gwyneth’s Hot Ones Confession: “True. He Was Snoring.”
During her March 21, 2024, appearance on the hit YouTube show Hot Ones, host Sean Evans asked Paltrow to address the decades-old rumor. And with zero hesitation, the Goop founder fired back with comic precision:
“True. He was snoring right in front of me.”
Apparently, not even being the lead actress and guest of honor saved her from witnessing the 42nd President catching some very audible Z’s. Did she take it personally? Not quite.
“I was like, ‘Wow, I guess this is going to be a real hit movie.’ But it was! So f*** you, Bill Clinton.”
Emma (1996): A Period Drama That Still Made Waves
Directed by Douglas McGrath, Emma cast Paltrow as Jane Austen’s beloved meddler, Emma Woodhouse. The 19th-century romantic comedy explored wealth, wit, and matchmaking mishaps. Despite Clinton’s reaction, the film
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Earned $37 million globally
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Was nominated for two Academy Awards
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Won Best Original Score
While Emma didn’t snag Paltrow her Oscar (that came later in Shakespeare in Love, 1998), it was a stepping stone that earned both critical and commercial success.
The Nap Heard ‘Round the White House
This story had lived on as a quiet joke in pop culture — until Paltrow’s recent Hot Ones appearance gave fans the full green light to laugh. Social media exploded, praising her sarcastic delivery and iconic clapback.
And let’s be honest — a president falling asleep during a slow Austen adaptation? It’s a uniquely American moment.
Final Thoughts: Gwyneth Keeps It Real, Even About Presidential Snores
Gwyneth Paltrow’s wit shone as brightly as ever when she confirmed that, yes, Bill Clinton fell asleep — and snored — during Emma. The actress showed that even Oscar winners can handle a snub with style. And the internet? It absolutely loved it.
Also read: Stick 2025: Apple TV+’s Feel-Good Sports Comedy Starring Owen Wilson Falls Short of Ted Lasso Charm
