Naomi Watts turned heads — and melted hearts — at her new movie The Friend’s New York City premiere, strutting the red carpet not only in style, but with her dashing co-star, a Great Dane named Bing. Hosted at the iPic Theater on March 24, the premiere was far from the norm, incorporating fashion, movie magic, and an unforgettable showcase of canine charm.
Watts, 56, stole the show in an outfit ripped from Jacquemus’s Spring 2025 collection — an opera-like white, open-back gown with black fuzzy tufts, echoing Bing’s black-spotted fur. The fashion statement wasn’t merely stylish; it was a charming tribute to her furry leading man and the movie’s sentimental storyline. In kindling elegance and playful charm, Watts and Bing sat side by side, mesmerizing the press and the crowd with an undeniable rapport.
The Friend, based on Sigrid Nunez’s beloved 2018 novel, tells the story of Iris, a New York novelist who inherits both the literary world and the gigantic Great Dane of her deceased mentor, Walter (played by Bill Murray). The movie sensitively mines grief, recovery, and the unusual connection between a woman and a dog that have been left behind. Watts’ performance of Iris has received early kudos, but it’s Bing who has pilfered more than a few scenes — and hearts.
“He absolutely blew us all away,” Watts said at the premiere to PEOPLE. “Each day, Bing brought something new to set. It was magical. The old adage is, ‘Don’t work with children or animals,’ but he exceeded all expectations — soulful, intelligent, and surprisingly disciplined.
This is not another celebrity-and-pet photo shoot. Watts’ red carpet appearance with Bing was half fashion-forward “method dressing,” half sincere celebration of their on-screen chemistry. Vogue even praised the moment for reinvigorating the once-tired trend with sincerity and playfulness.
Behind the scenes, Watts also shared an emotional Instagram video commemorating her final scene on The Friend. In the clip, crew members cheer while Bing barks and howls in what can only be described as the most adorable farewell in film history.
With The Friend opening in limited New York theaters on March 28 and nationwide on April 4, both Watts and Bing are ensuring this movie is one to see — not only for its narrative, but for the heartwarming relationship it depicts on and off-screen.
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