'Tell Me Lies' Star Confirms Relationship in Teen Vogue Interview
LOS ANGELES – Cat Missal, who portrays Bree in the recently concluded Hulu series Tell Me Lies, has spoken publicly about her sexuality and relationship with partner Jess Panneton. In a conversation with Teen Vogue timed with the show's series finale, the 26-year-old actress offered a candid glimpse into her life off-screen.
The discussion arose while reflecting on the often tumultuous and toxic relationships depicted in the drama series. When considering the contrast with her own life, Missal remarked, "Well, I am gay, so thank God," a comment that directly addressed her personal life in a public forum.
Her partner, Jess Panneton, who was present for the interview, added, "You're safe with me."
A Meeting in West Hollywood
The couple, who live together in Los Angeles with their two cats, shared that they first met several years ago at a drag show in West Hollywood, a well-known hub for LGBTQ+ culture. Missal recalled her first impression of Panneton, stating, "I just thought you were so cool," and described the encounter as feeling like "kismet."
While Missal has generally kept her personal life private, Panneton has shared photos of the couple on social media dating back to at least February 2020, indicating a long-term relationship.
Contrast with On-Screen Drama
Tell Me Lies, based on the novel by Carola Lovering, gained a following for its intense portrayal of a destructive central romance and the messy entanglements of a group of college friends in the mid-2000s. Missal's character, Bree, navigates her own share of complex situations alongside her friends Lucy (Grace Van Patten) and Pippa (Sonia Mena).
The show concluded after its third season, which showrunner Meaghan Oppenheimer confirmed was the planned ending for the story. Missal's comment provides a quiet counterpoint to the series' narrative, highlighting a stable, happy relationship away from the fictional chaos that defined her on-screen world.
