Love Actually fans spot hidden heartbreak in Emma Thompson’s iconic scene after 20 years

It’s been 20 years since the release of Love Actually, but fans of the Christmas classic are still discovering new layers hidden in its most memorable moments.

The latest revelation comes from one of the most heartbreaking scenes from treasured actress Emma Thompson.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: TikTokers spot heartbreaking detail in Love Actually.

Thompson’s character, Karen, secretly opens a Christmas gift from her husband Harry (Alan Rickman), only to realise it’s a Joni Mitchell CD instead of the gold necklace she had seen him purchasing earlier.

The devastating discovery leaves Karen in tears as she comes to suspect her husband’s infidelity.

But eagle-eyed fans have noticed a hidden detail that makes the scene even more poignant.

Karen is wearing red earrings, red lipstick, and a red scarf — perhaps an intentional choice, as she was anticipating receiving the gold necklace with ruby red detailing.

The matching accessories suggest she had dressed with the necklace in mind, only to have her hopes crushed.

The necklace, of course, was revealed to be a gift for Harry’s flirtatious coworker, Mia (Heike Makatsch), in one of the film’s most infamous subplots.

TikToker Kathie at the Nook posted a video pointing out the detail to the social media platform on Saturday, sparking the frenzy.

“The way she matched her earrings to the necklace, the way she holds it together for the kids, the way she pats down the bed. I stand with Emma Thompson,” she captioned the video.

“Yep I’ve always said the earrings, lipstick and cardigan all ready to match it is the saddest part of all,” one user responded.

“But how have I never noticed the earrings 😭💔,” a second said.

“WAIT. What do you mean she matched her earrings?!! 😭😭😭 How have I NEVER noticed that???” another added.

And a commenter observed: “The earrings were the bit that sent me over the edge I swear 😂 every year I’m p***** off all over again.”

Released in 2003, Love Actually quickly became a festive favourite and a defining rom-com of the early 2000s.

Written and directed by Richard Curtis (known for his work on Four Weddings and a Funeral, and Notting Hill), the film weaves together nine interconnected stories of love, heartbreak, and holiday chaos.

With its star-studded cast — including Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, and Alan Rickman— the movie captured hearts worldwide, and grossed over $A245 million at the global box office.