Selena Gomez & The Weeknd: Relationship Status In 2021

Hey there, guys! We're diving deep into a question that keeps popping up in the entertainment world and among fans: were Selena Gomez and The Weeknd dating in 2021? It's a question that brings back a lot of memories for many, as their past relationship was quite a whirlwind, capturing headlines and sparking endless discussions. For those who rooted for the 'Abelena' romance (that's Abel Tesfaye, aka The Weeknd, and Selena, for the uninitiated!), the idea of them rekindling things in 2021 might have seemed like a dream come true. But let's be real, the celebrity dating landscape is always shifting, and these two high-profile stars have certainly been on their own unique journeys since their initial split. We're going to break down everything you need to know about their connection, or lack thereof, in that particular year, dispelling rumors and bringing you the real scoop. Get ready, because we're about to explore their individual paths, career milestones, and what truly happened (or didn't happen) between Selena Gomez and The Weeknd in 2021.

The Whirlwind Romance of Selena Gomez and The Weeknd: A Look Back

Before we jump into the Selena Gomez and The Weeknd 2021 dating question, let's take a quick trip down memory lane to understand why this question even arises. Back in 2017, it felt like the entire world was talking about Selena Gomez and The Weeknd's relationship. They burst onto the scene as an undeniable 'it' couple, first spotted kissing in Santa Monica in January 2017, just a couple of months after The Weeknd's high-profile split from supermodel Bella Hadid. This public display of affection sent shockwaves, particularly given Selena's on-again, off-again history with Justin Bieber, and The Weeknd's recent breakup. Their relationship quickly blossomed, becoming one of the most talked-about romances of the year. They graced red carpets together, including the prestigious Met Gala, looking absolutely stunning and deeply in love. Pictures of them traveling the world, from Italy to Paris, painted a picture of a fairytale romance, and their fans, affectionately known as the 'Abelena' squad, were absolutely obsessed. The Weeknd even dedicated songs and lyrics to Selena, notably on his 'Starboy' album, which further cemented their status as a power couple in the music industry. It felt like they were inseparable, constantly supporting each other at various events and making cute appearances on social media. Their connection seemed genuine, and their chemistry was palpable, leading many to believe this was a long-term love story in the making. They were young, successful, and incredibly popular, making them a fascinating duo to follow. The constant media attention, however, also put immense pressure on their relationship, a common struggle for celebrities living under such intense scrutiny. Despite the buzz and the seemingly perfect appearances, there were underlying factors that would eventually lead to their separation. This historical context is vital, guys, because it explains why so many people continued to wonder about their status years later, particularly in 2021, given the strong impact they had as a couple during their time together. It was a romance that, for many, ended too soon, leaving a lingering question mark over their future. So, when people asked about Selena Gomez and The Weeknd dating in 2021, it wasn't just a random query; it was a testament to the unforgettable mark their relationship left on pop culture.

Unpacking the Split: Why Did Abelena End?

So, if their romance seemed so promising, why did Selena Gomez and The Weeknd ultimately call it quits? Their split in October 2017 came as a surprise to many, just ten months after they first got together. The initial reports cited distance and conflicting schedules as the primary culprits, which is a common narrative in the demanding world of celebrity relationships. Both Selena and The Weeknd were at the peaks of their respective careers, traveling extensively for tours, filming, and other commitments. Selena was busy filming Woody Allen's 'A Rainy Day in New York' in New York City, while The Weeknd was on his 'Starboy: Legend of the Fall' tour, performing across the globe. This constant separation, sources suggested, made it incredibly difficult to maintain a strong connection. However, the rumor mill quickly churned out other theories, with Justin Bieber often mentioned as a significant factor. Around the time of the breakup, Selena was frequently photographed spending time with her ex-boyfriend, Justin, leading to intense speculation that she had rekindled their long-standing romance, famously dubbed 'Jelena.' This certainly added a layer of complexity and public drama to the situation. For The Weeknd's part, there were whispers about his former girlfriend, Bella Hadid, as well. While neither star ever explicitly detailed the exact reasons for their split, sources close to them often pointed to fundamental differences in lifestyle and priorities. Selena was, at the time, going through significant personal challenges, including her battle with lupus and her life-saving kidney transplant, which she revealed publicly shortly after the breakup. These intense health issues likely shifted her perspective and focus, making her prioritize her well-being and her closest relationships. A source told People magazine that Selena 'always had a lot of love for Abel' but ultimately 'she always had a lot of love for Justin too.' This suggested a possible underlying emotional tug-of-war. For The Weeknd, his career trajectory was soaring, and his focus was intensely on his music and performances. While they genuinely cared for each other, the timing, the physical distance, and their individual personal journeys seemed to create an insurmountable wedge. It's a classic tale of two successful individuals finding it hard to align their demanding lives, coupled with the ever-present pressure of fame and past relationships hovering in the background. The end of 'Abelena' left many fans heartbroken, but it also paved the way for both stars to pursue their own paths, leading us directly to the intriguing question of their non-existent connection in 2021, where their lives were decidedly separate.

Selena Gomez and The Weeknd in 2021: Separate Paths, Thriving Careers

By the time 2021 rolled around, Selena Gomez and The Weeknd were undeniably on distinctly separate, yet incredibly successful, paths. The idea of Selena Gomez dating The Weeknd in 2021 really didn't align with what either star was publicly focusing on. Both had moved on professionally and personally, carving out impressive new milestones. Let's break down what each of them was up to during that year, showcasing just how much their lives had diverged since their 2017 romance.

Selena's Journey in 2021: Music, Mental Health, and Entrepreneurship

Selena Gomez was absolutely killing it in 2021, making significant strides across multiple industries. Musically, she released her first Spanish-language EP, 'Revelación,' in March 2021, which was met with critical acclaim and earned her a Latin Grammy nomination. This project allowed her to explore her heritage and connect with her Latin fanbase in a profound way. Beyond music, Selena further solidified her status as a serious actress and producer. She starred in and executive produced the critically acclaimed Hulu series 'Only Murders in the Building,' which debuted in August 2021. This show was a massive hit, earning her widespread praise for her comedic timing and chemistry with co-stars Steve Martin and Martin Short, and snagging multiple Emmy nominations. It truly marked a triumphant return to television for her, showcasing her versatility. Furthermore, her beauty brand, Rare Beauty, which she launched in 2020, continued its phenomenal success throughout 2021, emphasizing inclusivity and mental health advocacy, which is a cause incredibly close to Selena's heart. She was very vocal about destigmatizing mental health issues, sharing her own experiences, and using her platform for positive change. This wasn't just a side hustle, guys; Rare Beauty became a major player in the cosmetics industry, reflecting Selena's entrepreneurial spirit and her commitment to making a tangible difference. In terms of her personal life, Selena remained relatively private, but her focus was clearly on her health, her career, and her well-being. While there were always whispers and tabloid headlines, there was no credible evidence or public sightings of Selena Gomez dating The Weeknd in 2021. In fact, any dating rumors that surfaced around Selena that year tended to be short-lived and unsubstantiated, usually linked to various co-stars or public figures without any real basis. Her priorities were visibly centered on her groundbreaking work and her advocacy, rather than a romantic rekindling with an ex. She was thriving, flourishing, and building an empire that transcended her pop star origins, proving that her focus was firmly on her own future and personal growth.

The Weeknd's Triumphs in 2021: Super Bowl, "After Hours" Dominance, and More

Meanwhile, The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, had an equally explosive 2021, cementing his status as one of the biggest global superstars. His album 'After Hours,' released in early 2020, continued to dominate charts and break records throughout 2021. The lead single, 'Blinding Lights,' became an unprecedented global phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the most streamed songs of all time. It was inescapable, and its longevity was truly remarkable. The absolute highlight of his 2021 was undoubtedly his spectacular Super Bowl LV Halftime Show performance in February. This epic performance was watched by millions worldwide, receiving rave reviews for its innovative staging, dazzling visuals, and The Weeknd's powerful vocals. It was a cultural moment that solidified his place in music history and showcased his artistic vision on the grandest stage. Beyond the Super Bowl, he continued to release remixes and collaborations, keeping his music fresh and relevant. His creative energy wasn't limited to music; 2021 also saw him making moves into other artistic ventures, including co-creating and starring in the HBO drama series, 'The Idol,' which, while officially announced later, was clearly in development and part of his expanded artistic vision during this period. Like Selena, The Weeknd’s personal life was kept under wraps for the most part, but his professional achievements were consistently in the spotlight. There was absolutely no indication, zero sightings, or any verifiable reports suggesting that The Weeknd was dating Selena Gomez in 2021. His public appearances and social media activity were entirely focused on his music, his performances, and his burgeoning acting and production career. While he has been linked to various models and public figures over the years, any rumors involving Selena during 2021 were simply unfounded. Both artists were so incredibly busy and successful in their own rights that the idea of them secretly rekindling a relationship without any public trace seems highly improbable. They were both titans in their fields, each navigating massive projects and personal growth, proving that their focus had shifted completely from their past romance. It's a testament to their individual artistic integrity and dedication that they continued to achieve such immense success independently.

The Definitive Answer: Were Selena Gomez and The Weeknd Dating in 2021?

Alright, guys, let's cut straight to the chase and definitively answer the burning question: were Selena Gomez and The Weeknd dating in 2021? The answer, plain and simple, is a resounding no. Despite the lingering hopes of some fans and the occasional resurfacing of old photos on social media, there was absolutely no credible evidence, no public sightings, and no official confirmation whatsoever to suggest that Selena Gomez and The Weeknd were in a romantic relationship during 2021. Both artists were actively engaged in hugely successful individual careers and pursuits throughout that year, as we've detailed. Their respective schedules, public appearances, and social media activities showed them operating entirely independently. They didn't attend events together, they weren't photographed together, and neither offered any hint of a rekindled romance. It's important to remember that in the world of high-profile celebrities, it's incredibly difficult to keep a serious relationship completely under wraps, especially when the two individuals involved are as famous as Selena and The Weeknd. Any interaction, no matter how small, tends to be scrutinized and reported. In 2021, there simply wasn't anything of that nature concerning them. Their story as a couple had concluded years prior, and in 2021, they were clearly living separate, successful lives focused on their own professional and personal growth. So, for anyone still wondering, you can put those Selena Gomez and The Weeknd 2021 dating rumors to rest. Their chapter as a couple had definitively closed.

Fan Theories and Media Speculation: The Lingering Hope for Abelena

It's totally understandable why the question of Selena Gomez dating The Weeknd in 2021 kept popping up, even without any concrete evidence. The 'Abelena' romance, though brief, left a significant impression on fans and the media alike. There was a genuine magnetism between them during their time together, and their red carpet appearances were iconic. This strong past chemistry and the high-profile nature of their relationship meant that for years afterward, any subtle social media activity, an old photo resurfacing, or even an artist's new song could spark a fresh wave of speculation. Fans often latch onto the idea of a beloved couple getting back together, especially when the breakup was somewhat sudden and the reasons weren't fully laid bare by the stars themselves. The entertainment media also plays a role, often revisiting past celebrity romances to generate interest. So, while the reality was that they weren't together in 2021, the desire for a rekindling of Selena Gomez and The Weeknd's relationship was a testament to the impact they had as a power couple. It shows just how invested people become in the lives of their favorite stars, constantly hoping for a 'happily ever after' even years down the line.

Moving Forward: What Happened After 2021 for Selena and The Weeknd?

Even after 2021, Selena Gomez and The Weeknd continued their trajectories on entirely separate paths. Their individual successes only amplified, further distancing them from their brief shared history. Selena continued to shine with 'Only Murders in the Building,' releasing new seasons and gaining even more critical acclaim. Her Rare Beauty brand soared, and she became an even more prominent advocate for mental health. Her focus remained firmly on her acting, music, and entrepreneurial ventures. The Weeknd, likewise, kept his momentum going strong. He released his highly anticipated album, 'Dawn FM,' in early 2022, which was another commercial and critical success, and continued to tour extensively. His involvement with 'The Idol' also became a major talking point. While both artists maintained their positions as global superstars, their respective journeys post-2021 have only reinforced the fact that their romantic chapter is firmly in the past. There have been no reports, no sightings, and no indications of any romantic reconciliation between Selena Gomez and The Weeknd since their split in 2017, and certainly not in 2021 or beyond. They appear to be living entirely independent lives, focused on their own incredible careers and personal well-being. Any lingering questions about Selena Gomez dating The Weeknd can truly be put to rest, as both have clearly moved forward.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! We've taken a deep dive into the fascinating, yet ultimately clear, situation regarding Selena Gomez and The Weeknd's relationship status in 2021. While their romance in 2017 was undoubtedly captivating and left a lasting impression on fans and the media, the definitive answer to whether they were dating in 2021 is a firm no. Both Selena and The Weeknd were experiencing monumental individual successes throughout that year, each dominating their respective fields. Selena was making waves with her 'Revelación' EP, her hit series 'Only Murders in the Building,' and the continued growth of Rare Beauty, while actively advocating for mental health. The Weeknd, on the other hand, delivered an unforgettable Super Bowl Halftime Show and continued his reign with the 'After Hours' album, all while exploring new creative ventures. Their paths had clearly diverged, and their focus was squarely on their own impressive careers and personal journeys. There was no public interaction, no shared events, and absolutely no evidence to suggest any romantic rekindling between Selena Gomez and The Weeknd in 2021. The dream of 'Abelena' getting back together might still linger for some, but the reality is that both stars have moved on, continuing to build their empires independently. We hope this clears up any lingering confusion and gives you the full, no-nonsense scoop on their status during that eventful year!