In a fascinating convergence of cinema and music, Margaret Qualley, renowned for her compelling on-screen portrayals, is now venturing into the musical realm with her newly unveiled alter ego, Lace Manhattan. This exciting development sees her collaborate with acclaimed figures from both industries: Grammy-winning producer Jack Antonoff and Oscar-winning director Ethan Coen. The project promises to add a unique auditory dimension to her already diverse artistic repertoire, demonstrating her versatility beyond traditional acting roles.
Qualley's Musical Debut for 'Honey Don't!' Features Stellar Collaborations
On July 24, 2025, the world received its first glimpse of Margaret Qualley's musical endeavor under the guise of Lace Manhattan. This innovative artistic outlet stems directly from her latest cinematic project, the highly anticipated film 'Honey Don't!', where she assumes the role of private investigator Honey O'Donahue. During her time on set, Qualley conceived this pop persona, leading to the creation of two new songs, \"In the Sun She Lies\" and \"ODDWADD,\" which are set to be featured prominently in the movie.
The musical collaboration is nothing short of star-studded. Jack Antonoff, a celebrated producer known for his Midas touch in the music industry, took the helm in producing these tracks. Meanwhile, the film's director, Ethan Coen, lent his creative genius to co-write the lyrics, adding another layer of depth to the project. The visual component is equally intriguing: Lace Manhattan's music videos were directed by Qualley's 'Honey Don't!' co-star, Talia Ryder, who herself possesses a musical alter ego named Dixie Normous. The inaugural music video for \"In the Sun She Lies\" offers a poignant and mesmerizing experience, with Qualley, adorned in angelic wings, traversing the vibrant streets of New York City in a tearful search for Ryder, culminating in a heartwarming reunion. This moody, hypnotic piece evokes comparisons to the atmospheric soundscapes of Lana Del Rey, suggesting a rich and evocative musical style.
'Honey Don't!' made its grand premiere at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival in May, captivating audiences and critics alike. The film is scheduled for a wide theatrical release on August 22nd. Co-written by Ethan Coen and Tricia Cooke, this cinematic offering marks the second installment in the couple's "lesbian B-movie trilogy," following the successful release of 'Drive-Away Dolls' last year, which also featured Qualley. The cast is further bolstered by an impressive lineup of talent, including Chris Evans, Aubrey Plaza, and Charlie Day, promising a compelling and entertaining cinematic experience for viewers.
The emergence of Margaret Qualley's musical alter ego, Lace Manhattan, signifies a compelling evolution in the landscape of artistic expression. It highlights how creative boundaries are continually being redefined, allowing artists to explore new dimensions of their craft. From a journalistic perspective, this development underscores the growing trend of multi-talented individuals seamlessly transitioning between different artistic disciplines. It challenges the traditional compartmentalization of roles in the entertainment industry and paves the way for a more fluid and integrated creative process. For audiences, it means a richer and more varied artistic output, as familiar faces surprise and delight with unexpected talents. This bold step by Qualley, supported by the immense talents of Antonoff and Coen, is a testament to the power of collaboration and the endless possibilities when artists dare to venture beyond their established domains.