Erin Lee Carr and Michelle Toni Bruton’s relationship began with an unexpected connection in August 2023 when Carr came across a photo of Bruton on the dating app Hinge. Drawn to the image of Bruton, who had undergone top surgery in 2018 and was pictured shirtless on a horse, Carr decided to reach out. The two met for ice cream in the Highland Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, marking the start of a relationship that would quickly develop depth and complexity.
Carr, 38, a documentary filmmaker and writer known for her work on projects such as Netflix’s “Britney vs Spears” and Hulu’s “Murdaugh: Death in the Family,” grew up in Montclair, New Jersey. She is the daughter of the late David Carr, a prominent New York Times media columnist. Bruton, 43, originally from Canberra, Australia, works as a creative manager at 505 Games, a video game publisher based in Milan.
Initially, Bruton felt intimidated after researching Carr online prior to their meeting, while Carr was selective with her time, often limiting dates to 30 minutes to assess compatibility. Despite some initial awkwardness, the two found common ground around the 27th minute of their first meeting when they began sharing personal stories about their parents, including the loss of their fathers at different points in their lives. Their conversation extended well beyond the allotted time, underscoring a growing connection.
The relationship progressed with subsequent dates, including a picnic at Echo Park where Bruton brought an apple pie—a gesture Carr recognized as significant in the Los Angeles dating scene. Both appreciated the other’s qualities; Bruton admired Carr’s listening skills and questioning, while Carr found a sense of calm and ease with Bruton that contrasted with her previous experiences.
Despite early doubts three months into their relationship—partly due to Carr’s other romantic partnership—open communication and counseling helped them navigate their concerns, leading to a mutual decision to continue together. Their bond strengthened during a visit to Carr’s secondary residence in Woodbridge, Connecticut, where they experienced a comfortable, domestic life devoid of outside pressures.
Although both identify as polyamorous, the couple currently do not date others, focusing instead on building a strong foundation for their relationship. Carr’s prior relationship ended amicably, with the former partner attending their wedding.
The couple moved into a home in Highland Park in January 2025. Carr proposed to Bruton near Paris in August 2026 during a vacation. Their wedding took place on October 13, 2026, at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, officiated by Deputy Commissioner Adrienne Koroschek. The celebration continued with a dinner at Gala Restaurant, attended by 32 guests who each prepared a speech. The festivities concluded with dancing at the Wildcat Lounge, marking a joyful start to their marriage.
Throughout their relationship, both Carr and Bruton emphasized the importance of communication, vulnerability, and shared values as they forged a path together.