The dynamic duo of Meg Stalter and Paul W. Downsknown for their hilarious and heartwarming chemistry in Hackshave once again captured the public’s imagination. This time, they’ve done so through a bold and playful photoshoot for Paper magazinerecreating some of the most iconic fashion moments of the past decades.
As the curtain falls on Hacks after its final season in May, fans can take comfort in seeing Stalter and Downs continue to celebrate their unique bond. Their latest collaboration is a visual feast, packed with references to legendary campaigns from Calvin KleinGucciVersaceand more. Let’s dive into the stunning shoot and hear what the pair had to say about their creative journey together.
Recreating Legendary Fashion Campaigns
The photoshoot, captured by Vijat Mohindra and styled by Kat Typaldosis a love letter to the golden age of fashion advertising. The standout image sees Stalter and Downs channeling the iconic 1992 Calvin Klein ad featuring Kate Moss and Mark Wahlberg. Dressed in nothing but their underwear and jeans, the duo exudes the same raw energy and chemistry that made the original campaign so memorable.
But the references don’t stop there. Throughout the shoot, Stalter and Downs pay homage to a range of legendary campaigns. In one image, Stalter, sporting a fabulous auburn wig, reclines in a maid’s outfit while Downs caresses her leg, mirroring a 1977 Charles Jourdan ad shot by Guy Bourdin. Another shot sees Downs reclining in a chair as Stalter towers over him in a white cut-out gown, a nod to a famous Gucci by Tom Ford look from Fall/Winter 1996.
Fans on Reddit have been quick to spot these references, with many praising the duo’s attention to detail and their ability to bring these iconic moments to life in their own unique way. The shoot also includes a tribute to Versace‘s Fall/Winter 1994 campaign, with Stalter striking a pose in a turtleneck sweater and miniskirt, while Downs takes on the role of the nude male model featured in some of the original shots.
A Bond Beyond the Screen
Accompanying the stunning images is an interview with Stalter and Downs, in which they share their thoughts on their on-screen dynamic and their real-life friendship. Downs speaks about the unexpected joy of seeing their characters, Kayla and Jimmybecome fan favorites. “I don’t think we ever envisioned these two characters being as central to the show as they became until we had Meg on set,” he explains. “Meg is so brilliant and so funny and so easily elevates the work, that it was like, you can give her anything.”
Stalter, meanwhile, expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to work with Downs. “I didn’t really think about it being a duo. I just thought: I get to work with Paul. And even if I get to say one thing, it’ll be the best day ever,” she says. The pair’s chemistry is palpable, both on and off the screen, and their love for each other shines through in every interview and photoshoot.
For those hoping to see more of Stalter and Downs together, there’s good news. The pair have hinted at the possibility of starring in a rom-com together, with Stalter quipping, “That’s so sweet. I could see that, us in a rom-com. That’s so precious.” While nothing is set in stone, the idea has certainly got fans excited.
As we say goodbye to Hacksit’s clear that the legacy of Stalter and Downs’ friendship will live on. Their Paper magazine shoot is a testament to their creativity, their bond, and their ability to bring joy to others. Here’s to hoping we see more of them together in the future.
