Zayn Malik Faces Backlash After Claiming He Was ‘Never in Love’ with Gigi Hadid

Catherine Bell, Features Editor
4 Min Read
⏱️ 3 min read

In a candid revelation that has stirred considerable debate among fans, Zayn Malik has admitted that he does not believe he was ever truly in love with his former partner, Gigi Hadid, throughout their six-year relationship. The 33-year-old singer, who shares a five-year-old daughter named Khai with Hadid, opened up about his feelings during an appearance on the popular podcast, *Call Her Daddy*, hosted by Alex Cooper.

Reflecting on Past Relationships

Malik reflected on his time with Hadid, explaining that while he may have thought he was in love at the time, his perspective has evolved as he has matured. “At that moment in time, I might have thought it was love, but as I got older, I realized maybe it wasn’t,” he stated. “Maybe it was lust, maybe it was this, maybe it was that. I don’t feel like it was love.”

He emphasised that despite his feelings, he holds a deep respect for Hadid, calling her “the reason my child is on this earth” and expressing that he will “always love G.” Malik’s comments have sparked a flurry of responses on social media, with many fans questioning the appropriateness of his admissions.

Fans React: Divided Opinions

The singer’s remarks have not gone unnoticed, as a wave of criticism has flooded platforms like X. One user expressed disbelief, stating, “Zayn Malik said publicly he doesn’t know if he was in love with Gigi Hadid. I’m sorry but what?” Others echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that reflecting on a past relationship in such a manner could be hurtful to Hadid.

One particularly poignant comment read, “Imagine Gigi sitting at home hearing that her 20s were basically a ‘misunderstanding’ of his feelings.” The backlash illustrates the complex dynamics surrounding public discussions of love and relationships, especially when children are involved.

However, not all reactions were negative. Some fans expressed appreciation for Malik’s honesty, considering it a reflective take on personal growth. “A raw, reflective insight into past relationships and the ways people grow over time,” one supporter noted.

The Importance of Open Dialogue

In contemporary discussions about relationships, transparency can often lead to uncomfortable truths. Malik’s comments highlight the sometimes complicated nature of love and attachment, especially in the context of public figures who navigate their personal lives under intense scrutiny.

His evolving definition of love prompts a broader conversation about how relationships can change over time, as individuals grow and their perspectives shift.

Why it Matters

Malik’s candidness serves as a reminder of the complexities of love and the importance of communication in relationships. For many, his remarks resonate on a personal level, inviting reflection on their own experiences of love and growth. While the backlash underscores the potential consequences of sharing intimate feelings publicly, it also opens the door for meaningful discussions about the nature of love, respect, and personal evolution. As society continues to grapple with the nuances of relationships, Malik’s honesty may encourage others to share their own truths, fostering a culture of understanding and growth.

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Catherine Bell is a versatile features editor with expertise in long-form journalism and investigative storytelling. She previously spent eight years at The Sunday Times Magazine, where she commissioned and edited award-winning pieces on social issues and human interest stories. Her own writing has earned recognition from the British Journalism Awards.
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