Austin Butler has provided an explanation for attending the Oscars without his girlfriend.

The nominee for Best Actor, who delivered a stunning performance as Elvis Presley, made an appearance on the champagne carpet without his girlfriend, 21-year-old Kaia Gerber.

"This is Saint Laurent," the 31-year-old star said during the E! pre-show. "I don't know what story I'm telling – I just thought it was a beautiful tuxedo."

Butler's girlfriend, model and actress Gerber, who has been in a relationship with him since December 2021, was not present at the event. Instead, the former Hannah Montana actor was accompanied by his long-time agent, James Farrell, as reported by W.

"I've got my best friend here with me, who is also my agent," Butler told ABC reporters during the channel's pre-show. "And I owe my career to him, so as a thank you, I wanted him to be by my side tonight."

Despite being a favorite among many Elvis fans, Butler did not win the Best Actor award, which was awarded to Brendan Fraser, the star of The Whale.

Although Butler did not win any awards, his girlfriend Gerber showed her support by attending the after-party with him, despite his upcoming role in Dune: Part Two.

The couple, who are clearly smitten with each other, graced the Vanity Fair after-party in two chic outfits.

Gerber donned a stunning silver halter-neck slip dress that featured an alluring opening at the bust and a very high leg slit. The gorgeous attire was adorned with sparkling crystals.

Butler ditched his black velvet Saint Laurent suit from the ceremony and opted for another Saint Laurent ensemble, featuring a silk purple blouse with a large matching lavallière. He paired the shirt with an oversized black double-breasted blazer and matching trousers.

The native of California revealed that he had dedicated a tremendous amount of effort to transform himself into the iconic King of Rock and Roll.

During an interview with Janelle Monáe for Variety's Actors on Actors series in late 2022, Butler discussed his approach to method acting, which involved pushing himself to the limit.

"During Elvis I didn't see my family for about three years," the 31-year-old said. "I was prepping with Baz [Luhrmann], and then I went to Australia."

"I had months where I wouldn't talk to anybody. And when I did, the only thing I was ever thinking about was Elvis."

"I was speaking in his voice the whole time."

Austin's hard work certainly paid off - congratulations to him!