Tom Holland and Zendaya, beloved stars of the Spider-Man franchise, have won the hearts of fans around the world with their undeniable chemistry. Although their relationship began as an on-screen romance, the couple has since transitioned into a real-life love story.
The world was abuzz when rumors swirled about their engagement in early January 2025, following Zendaya’s appearance at the Golden Globe Awards, where she was seen sporting a diamond ring on her left hand. The couple’s journey from co-stars to engaged partners has captured the public’s attention, and their story has been filled with sweet moments and milestones.
Throughout their relationship, Tom and Zendaya have kept their private lives relatively low-key, but their growing bond is undeniable. From their first on-screen kiss in Spider-Man: Far From Home to publicly confirming their romance in 2021, their relationship has steadily blossomed over the years.
As the couple prepares to take the next step and plan their wedding, fans have been eager to trace the history of their romance, exploring the moments that defined their connection. This timeline captures the sweet moments, milestones, and public displays of affection that have shaped Tom and Zendaya’s love story.
Tom Holland and Zendaya (@zendaya/Instagram)
From Co-Stars to Close Friends
Tom Holland and Zendaya’s journey began in 2016 when they were cast as Peter Parker (Spider-Man) and MJ in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Their first interaction on social media came shortly after, when Zendaya shared a photo of the two on Instagram in July 2016. Holland posted a picture of them enjoying a pool day together, captioned, “Summer Sunday’s,” which hinted at their growing friendship.
The following November, Zendaya shared a dual cover story in The Hollywood Reporter, where she and Holland were featured as part of the “Next Gen 2016.” In the post, Zendaya expressed her admiration for Holland, calling him “the very best.” The duo’s growing friendship was evident, as they continued to be seen together at public events, such as the MTV Movie & TV Awards in May 2017 and the press tour for Spider-Man: Homecoming.
Tom Holland and Zendaya (@zendaya/Instagram)
Relationship Rumors Begin to Circulate
As their friendship deepened, rumors about a possible romance began to surface. In July 2017, a source told PEOPLE that Tom and Zendaya were romantically involved. The insider mentioned that they had been careful to keep their relationship private but had been spending significant time together. Despite these rumors, both stars continued to emphasize that they were simply good friends. Holland, in particular, praised Zendaya for being a great friend who helped him navigate the challenges of fame.
During an interview with Variety in August 2017, Zendaya firmly denied any romantic involvement with Holland, saying, “We are friends.” Despite this, the public continued to speculate, as the pair’s chemistry was undeniable both on-screen and off-screen. The rumors only grew stronger as they continued to appear together at events.
As Spider-Man: Far From Home premiered in June 2019, fans were treated to an iconic moment: the first on-screen kiss between Peter Parker and MJ, portrayed by Holland and Zendaya, respectively. The moment sparked excitement among fans, who had long hoped to see the couple’s relationship unfold. However, it wasn’t just the movie that had fans talking – it was what happened next that truly confirmed their bond.
In July 2021, after years of speculation, Zendaya and Holland were spotted sharing a kiss in the front seat of a car, officially confirming their real-life relationship. This public display of affection silenced any remaining doubts and marked a new chapter for the couple, who had always kept their personal lives relatively private.
Tom Holland and Zendaya (@zendaya/Instagram)
Becoming Public Figures in Love
In September 2021, Tom Holland took to Instagram to celebrate Zendaya’s 25th birthday. He shared a sweet mirror selfie of the two of them together, with the caption, “My MJ, have the happiest of birthdays.” This public declaration was the couple’s way of making their relationship known, and it was met with overwhelming support from fans.
During a GQ interview in November 2021, Tom Holland opened up about his desire to keep his personal life out of the spotlight. He expressed frustration with the lack of privacy that comes with fame and how moments that should be private between two people are often shared with the public. Zendaya echoed these sentiments, stating that she found it “confusing and invasive” when others glimpsed into her private life. Both stars expressed a deep desire to protect their relationship from unnecessary scrutiny.
In December 2021, as Spider-Man: No Way Home hit theaters, Zendaya posted a heartfelt tribute to Holland on Instagram. She shared a picture of him dressed as Spider-Man, writing, “My Spider-Man, I’m so proud of you.” This post was a beautiful expression of her support and admiration for her partner, reflecting the depth of their connection.
During an interview at the Euphoria For Your Consideration event, Zendaya revealed how Holland supported her during emotionally demanding scenes while filming Euphoria. She spoke about how having someone like Holland to “free” her from intense moments on set was a source of comfort.
Tom Holland, Zendaya, and their Spider-Man co-star Jacob Batalon had a lighthearted moment in March 2022 when they watched their audition tapes together. The trio laughed at the young version of Holland, further highlighting the close-knit bond between the three of them that had formed over the years.
Tom Holland and Zendaya (@zendaya/Instagram)
More Milestones and Sweet Moments
In October 2022, Zendaya and Holland were spotted visiting the Louvre in Paris, hand-in-hand. This outing was a reflection of their love for each other and their shared appreciation for art. Zendaya looked stylish in a shirt dress, while Holland kept it casual in a striped sweater and slacks. Their trip to Paris showed a glimpse of their life outside the spotlight, enjoying a peaceful day together.
In March 2023, Zendaya was spotted wearing a gold ring engraved with Tom Holland’s initials on her finger. This subtle yet meaningful gesture was a sign of their commitment to one another, fueling speculation that an engagement was on the horizon.
In April 2023, Zendaya and Holland were seen in Mumbai, India, attending the opening of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. Although they walked the red carpet separately, they were later seen holding hands as they left the event together, further showing their unity as a couple.
In May 2023, the couple attended an Usher concert together in Las Vegas. Zendaya shared her excitement on Instagram, capturing the magical evening. Usher even gave a shout-out to the couple during his performance, further adding to the celebration of their relationship.
Tom Holland launched his non-alcoholic drink brand, Bero, in October 2024, with Zendaya by his side at the event in New York City. The couple coordinated their outfits and posed together, showing their continued support for each other’s endeavors.
Zendaya (@zendaya/Instagram)
Engagement Rumors Confirmed
In January 2025, Zendaya sparked engagement rumors when she appeared at the Golden Globes wearing a large diamond ring on her left hand. The couple had kept their relationship private, but the sighting sent fans into a frenzy. Less than 24 hours later, PEOPLE confirmed that Tom Holland had proposed, and the couple was engaged. The proposal reportedly took place during the holiday season, between Christmas and New Year’s, at one of Zendaya’s family homes.
Tom Holland and Zendaya’s relationship has evolved from a professional partnership to a loving, deeply connected couple. From their first on-screen kiss in 2019 to their engagement in 2025, their journey together has been a testament to their genuine affection for each other.
Despite the challenges that come with public life, the couple has managed to maintain a strong bond, rooted in mutual respect and love. As they prepare for the next chapter in their lives, fans are eager to see what the future holds for the newly engaged pair. Their journey is a beautiful reminder that love, even in the public eye, can thrive with patience, respect, and a deep connection.
