# What was the relationship timeline between Selena Gomez and The Weeknd?

Paige Thornton · August 4, 2026

> Selena Gomez and The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, began dating in January 2017 after being spotted together at dinner in Los Angeles. This...

Selena Gomez and The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, began dating in January 2017 after being spotted together at dinner in Los Angeles.

This marked the beginning of a high-profile romance that attracted significant media attention.

**Also worth reading:** [Who is Elrod's cousin and what are some interesting facts about their relationship?](https://zdnetinside.com/knowledge/who_is_elrods_cousin_and_what_are_some_interesting_facts_about_their_relationship.php) · [Who is Coolio's girlfriend Mimi and what is their relationship like?](https://zdnetinside.com/knowledge/who_is_coolios_girlfriend_mimi_and_what_is_their_relationship_like.php) · [What is the realistic AI attribution implementation timeline for enterprise software systems in 2026?](https://zdnetinside.com/knowledge/what_is_the_realistic_ai_attribution_implementation_timeline_for_enterprise_software_systems_in_2026.php)

Their relationship was characterized by public displays of affection, including attending events together and sharing intimate moments on social media, which is not uncommon in celebrity relationships but often amplifies public interest.

The Weeknd and Gomez were often seen together in various locations, including Toronto, New York City, and Los Angeles, demonstrating how celebrity couples frequently travel for both personal and professional reasons, which can put strain on relationships.

The couple reportedly met through mutual friends in the music industry, which is a common way for artists to connect, given their overlapping social circles and professional engagements.

In March 2017, they made their first public appearance together at the Met Gala, a significant event that often marks the solidification of celebrity relationships in the public eye.

The relationship lasted about 10 months, with reports of their breakup emerging in October 2017.

Such timelines are typical for many relationships in the entertainment industry, where intense schedules can affect personal connections.

One of the rumored reasons for their split was the physical distance, as The Weeknd was on tour at the time.

This sheds light on how touring can impact relationships, as the demands of performance schedules often lead to time apart.

Gomez's health issues, including her lupus diagnosis and subsequent kidney transplant, were also factors in their relationship dynamics, showcasing how personal health can influence romantic partnerships.

Following their breakup, The Weeknd released his 2018 EP "My Dear Melancholy," which many fans speculated was inspired by his relationship with Gomez.

This is a common phenomenon in the music industry, where artists often draw from personal experiences for their work.

The Weeknd's song "Like Selena" registered in 2021 sparked renewed interest in their past relationship, demonstrating how artists often reflect on previous relationships through their music, which can lead to public speculation and nostalgia.

Gomez and The Weeknd both have significant followings on social media, which can amplify public interest in their private lives, illustrating the impact of digital platforms on celebrity culture and how they can shape public narratives.

Their relationship coincided with a period of personal growth for both, as Gomez focused on her mental health and The Weeknd evolved his musical style, highlighting how personal and professional development can intersect in meaningful ways.

The Weeknd's ex-girlfriend Bella Hadid and Gomez had a complicated history, as they were both romantically linked to The Weeknd, showcasing how relationships within the celebrity sphere can often overlap and lead to intricate dynamics.

After their split, Gomez mentioned in interviews that she valued her time with The Weeknd but also emphasized the importance of personal space and self-care, reflecting a broader trend among individuals in high-pressure environments to prioritize mental health.

The nature of their romance was often described as passionate yet tumultuous, a common narrative in relationships where both partners are in the public eye, illustrating how external pressures can influence personal connections.

Their relationship highlighted the phenomenon of "celebrity couple fatigue," where the public interest in their relationship can lead to a rapid decrease in enthusiasm from fans and media alike once the novelty wears off.

Gomez's influence in the music industry, combined with The Weeknd's distinct sound, contributed to a unique blend of pop and R&B that resonated with audiences, demonstrating how collaborations or relationships can lead to innovative artistic expressions.

The emotional impact of their relationship has been analyzed by fans and critics alike, emphasizing the psychological aspects of love and heartbreak, which can resonate universally beyond their celebrity status.

Following their breakup, both artists continued to evolve in their careers, with Gomez focusing on her acting and music, while The Weeknd expanded his reach into various musical genres, showcasing how personal experiences can fuel creative output.

The timeline of their relationship serves as a case study in modern romance, particularly within the context of celebrity culture, where public perception, media narratives, and personal experiences intersect in complex ways.

Canonical: https://zdnetinside.com/knowledge/what_was_the_relationship_timeline_between_selena_gomez_and_the_weeknd.php
Markdown: https://zdnetinside.com/knowledge/what_was_the_relationship_timeline_between_selena_gomez_and_the_weeknd.php/index.md