Harry Styles says fame left him feeling 'existential' after last tour

Harry Styles is stepping back into the spotlight.

The former One Direction member, 32, is gracing the spring cover of Runner's World, and opening up about the pitfalls of fame, over a decade after he was catapulted into the limelight alongside his fellow bandmembers.

"Over the years, I had to say no to everything I was invited to, whether it was a friend's birthday, a trip somewhere amazing, an opening. I started to wonder if I was saying no because I really was so busy or because it was more comfortable than saying yes," he told the outlet, in a story published Tuesday, March 3. "When you close yourself off to protect yourself from people who might bring negativity into your life, you're also missing out on positive experiences."

Styles, who is set to head back out on tour this year, went on to describe the celebrity experience as isolating, at times, especially given the intense adoration his fans have become known for.

"Something I've often struggled with, in the middle of a tour, is feeling like I'm not sure what I'm giving, not sure what I'm adding to the world," he said. "Especially when the reward system and the kind of…adulation that you can receive feels so loud. Like clearly, I'm getting so much from this, I'm getting all this energy. People are giving me so much, which I deeply appreciate. But what am I contributing? At times I felt quite existential about that."

Styles' comments come ahead of a much-anticipated streaming event to celebrate the release of hisfourth studio album on March 6. The "Aperture" singer is partnering with Netflix to bring fans the "very first live performance" of "Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally" on Sunday, March 8.

His interview with the specialty outlet feels apt, given his recent competition in several of the globe's premier marathons. In 2025, he shocked fans with a sub-3-hour finish time at the Berlin Marathon. The sport doesn't come without a few logistical issues, however, Styles revealed, given how easily recognizable he is. The British singer-songwriter added, though, that it's hard to spot a moving target.

"The main thing is that you're always moving," he told the outlet. "You can turn a corner wherever. I think with people who see me, it's a bit more 'Was that…?' rather than, 'Oh look it's him!' And by that time, you're already gone."

Contributing: Amaris Encinas, USA TODAY