Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick’s Cannes “True Colors” Duet: Friendship, Nerves, and a Trolls World Tour

In 2016, the Cannes Film Festival glittered with a unique musical moment as Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick took the stage to perform Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors.” The duet, tied to their roles in DreamWorks’ animated hit Trolls, wasn’t just a press event—it was a heartfelt, behind-the-scenes tale of nerves, friendship, and playful showmanship.

Both Timberlake and Kendrick were under the weather that day, but the show had to go on. Kendrick later confessed to feeling anxious, especially as Timberlake riffed through the classic during rehearsals. “I was a little freaked out because Justin started adding runs,” she recalled. “He told me, ‘Don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple for the real thing.’” True to his word, their on-stage harmonies captured the song’s emotional depth, making the Cannes performance a “bucket list” moment for Kendrick.

Ever the entertainer, Timberlake broke the ice by introducing their pairing as “Anna and Garfunkel”—a nod to the legendary folk duo and a testament to the duo’s easygoing rapport. The joke set the tone for a warm, genuine performance that won over the Cannes crowd and Trolls fans alike.

The chemistry wasn’t limited to the stage. Timberlake and Kendrick embarked on an energetic European press tour, which included a memorable speedboat ride through the French Riviera, meet-and-greets with fans, and a whirlwind of colorful promotional events. Their camaraderie was on full display—matching the vibrant, optimistic spirit of the film they were promoting.

At Comic-Con 2016, the duo delighted fans again, revealing their creative process and the joy they found in voicing Trolls’ loveable leads. From recording sessions to red carpets, Timberlake and Kendrick’s partnership—built on mutual respect and playful humor—became a standout story in itself.

The Cannes performance of “True Colors” remains a highlight, not just for the fans who witnessed it, but for the stars themselves. It was a testament to the power of music, the thrill of live performance, and the magic that happens when artists bring their true colors to the world—on screen and off.