Jessie Buckley Clarifies Her Affection for Cats After Backlash

Actress Jessie Buckley has moved to clarify her stance on cats, stating she is a “lover of cats” following a reaction to previous comments suggesting a preference for dogs. The clarification came during an appearance on The Tonight Demonstrate Starring Jimmy Fallon on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

From Dog Person to Cat Lover?

The initial discussion stemmed from an interview during promotion for the film Hamnet last year, where Buckley and co-star Paul Mescal were asked about their preference for cats or dogs. Both actors initially indicated a preference for dogs. Buckley stated at the time, “I don’t like cats. Cats are imply.” She also recounted an ultimatum given to her husband, requiring him to choose between her and his cats.

A Change of Heart (and an Audition Story)

Appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Buckley explained that the initial comments were a “misconception.” She emphasized her fondness for cats, stating, “I need to clarify something for all cat lovers in the world… I am a lover of cats.” Buckley even revealed she once auditioned for a role as a cat, admitting, “I actually auditioned to be a cat once.”

The Cats Audition

Buckley elaborated on the audition experience, describing it as a disaster. “It was honestly the worst – I gave the worst audition of my life,” she told Fallon. “It was so hot. I was sweating. I was like, licking my paws, like trying to leap. I was just like a hoof of an Irish woman leaping across and licking her paws. And anyway, obviously I didn’t gain it.”

Recent Accolades

Buckley recently won the best actress Bafta for her role in Hamnet and is currently nominated for an Oscar.