Tom Hiddleston Dropped From Armani Campaign, Over Taylor Swift Relationship

The 'Night Manager' star has not been out of the headlines for a month.

Tom Hiddleston’s rapid romance with Taylor Swift has ensured he’s barely been out of the headlines for the past month, as they’ve ventured out together on a world tour of love.

However, it turns out not all publicity is necessarily of the good variety… for one high-end brand, at least, who’s revealed its ditching the ‘Night Manager’ star from its shortlist of ambassadors.

Following his coronation last week with ‘Rear of the Year’ after his/its showing in the BBC spy drama, Tom might have considered himself a safe bet for Armani’s next underwear campaign, and he was reportedly on the shortlist.

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Tom and Taylor have embarked on a whirlwind global tour of love
Newspix via Getty Images

However, the role - coincidentally taking over from Taylor’s ex Calvin Harris - will not be going his way, it appears, with a US fashion source revealing the headlines have been the problem.

The Mirror quotes the unnamed source as explaining:

“Armani see themselves as classier than that and think that a rising sports star may suit their current needs better. Armani would hate to be seen as getting PR for their brand by riding on Taylor Swift’s coat tails, so Tom will not get the job.”

The insider also claimed that, in his mid-thirties, Tom may be too old for the brand. “The brand is looking at attracting 30-somethings and under, so Tom may be a little too old.” Ouch!

While the lack of Armani gig is no biggie for an actor of Tom’s stature, the reason must surely be pause for thought for the unashamedly serious actor who, it was recently revealed, recited his first acting role in classical Greek.

Dating the most recognisable singer in the world has undoubtedly put him in a higher fame league, but his bookies’ favourite standing for James Bond - following his equally debonaire turn in ‘The Night Manager’ - has plummeted since he was first pictured sharing beach capers with Taylor near her Rhode Island home. He is now considered an outsider for the much-coveted role.

Could there be such a thing as too famous?

Incidentally, this all means the role of Armani’s pants-man remains vacant. People not in very public relationships need not apply.

Tap the picture below to open our slideshow:

The Next James Bond Is One Of These...
Damian Lewis(01 of14)
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The first red-headed James Bond?
Idris Elba(02 of14)
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So many people have asked him about it, Idris will no longer discuss the subject. But while Pierce Brosnan remarked Bond boss Barbara Broccoli wouldn't be happy with a Black Bond, she told HuffPostUK, "I don't know what Pierce is talking about."
Tom Hardy(03 of14)
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Arguably too rugged for the corridors of Westminster where James Bond has to defend his actions, but very, very popular.
Chiwetel Ejiofor(04 of14)
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Another actor who's been asked so many times, now he just smiles when asked.
Tom Hiddleston(05 of14)
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If pouting were all that is required, Tom Hiddleston would go straight to Vauxhall Bridge.
Clive Owen(06 of14)
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Has proved he has the required steeliness in any number of big screen roles, but success Stateside might make him no longer willing to commit.
Douglas Booth(07 of14)
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No gun or martial arts skills required, he can just look at them, and wait for submission.
John Boyega(08 of14)
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What the 'Star Wars' star may lack in stature, he more than makes up for in enthusiasm and appeal. Although the Bond villains might just want to cuddle him.
Taron Egerton(09 of14)
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Proved his action hero chops in 'Kingsman: Secret Service' and signing him now would mean Barbara Broccoli and co wouldn't have to worry again for at least a decade.
Michael Fassbender(10 of14)
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Like Pierce Brosnan, Irish charm could help the 'Steve Jobs' star int the role.
Sam Claflin(11 of14)
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The 'Hunger Games' star represents the best of British.
Tom Hughes(12 of14)
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Who, you ask? Set to play Prince Albert against Jenna Coleman in the forthcoming 'Victoria' TV series, Tom has already proven himself a master of espionage in 'The Game' and 'Page Eight', both on TV. When not if he gets the call, don't say we didn't give you the heads up...
Aidan Turner(13 of14)
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Aidan has made a legion of fans with his role of Ross Poldark, but it was his surprising turn in 'And Then There Were None' that really proved he could be enigmatic and dashing. (credit:PA)
Jeremy Clarkson(14 of14)
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... or alternatively, don't say we didn't warn you.