Robert Pattinson Covers Vanity Fair April 2011

Photograph by Annie Leibovitz.

Robert Pattinson graced the cover of Vanity Fair in April 2011, marking another milestone in his post-Twilight career. The cover, shot by the iconic Annie Leibovitz, featured Pattinson in a rugged, contemplative pose, holding an alligator—a striking visual metaphor for his growing evolution beyond the Twilight saga.

Inside the Issue

In the interview, Pattinson opened up about his life in the spotlight, dealing with intense fan scrutiny, and his experiences playing Edward Cullen in The Twilight Saga, which was nearing its conclusion with Breaking Dawn – Part 1 set to release later that year. He also shared insights about his personal life, his approach to fame, and his musical aspirations—revealing his love for jazz and his deep admiration for legendary artists like Van Morrison.

The article explored the challenges of being one of the most recognized faces in Hollywood at the time and his desire to take on more diverse roles beyond the vampire phenomenon. He expressed his frustration with paparazzi culture and the overwhelming media attention that came with Twilight’s success, emphasizing his longing for a more private life.

The Photography

Annie Leibovitz’s shoot captured Pattinson in a Southern-inspired setting, reinforcing his moody, mysterious persona. The alligator on the cover became one of the most talked-about elements of the shoot, symbolizing his untamed and unpredictable nature in the industry.

Impact of the Issue

The feature was widely read, as Pattinson was at the peak of his Twilight fame. Fans appreciated the candidness of the interview, while critics noted his growing ambition to step away from franchise films and establish himself as a serious actor—a move he later solidified with roles in films like Cosmopolis, The Lighthouse, and Tenet.

Playing the world’s sexiest vampire in the Twilight saga has made Robert Pattinson rich, famous—and crazy. As he stars opposite Reese Witherspoon in Water for Elephants, he tries not to complain to Nancy Jo Sales. Photographs by Annie Leibovitz.