Zayn Malik Offers Nuanced Perspective on Past Romance with Gigi Hadid
Five years after their highly publicized split, former One Direction star Zayn Malik has opened up about his past relationship with supermodel Gigi Hadid in a candid and introspective interview. Appearing on the popular "Call Her Daddy" podcast hosted by Alex Cooper, Malik delved into his evolving understanding of love and his feelings toward his ex-partner, with whom he shares a young daughter.
Questioning the Nature of Past Feelings
During the conversation, Cooper pressed Malik on his previous statements about never having "truly been in love," a claim that seemed to contradict his lengthy, high-profile romance with Hadid. Malik offered a reflective response, explaining that his perception of love has matured over time. "My understanding of love is always developing," he said. "You know, at that moment in time, I might have thought it was love, but as I got older, I realized maybe it wasn't. Maybe it was lust. Maybe it was this, maybe it was that. I don't feel like it was love."
A Complex History and Enduring Respect
Malik and Hadid began dating in 2015, quickly becoming one of Hollywood's most talked-about young couples. Their daughter, Khai, was born in September 2020. The pair ultimately separated in 2021, a period marked by legal complications when Malik pleaded no contest to harassment charges following an altercation with Hadid's mother, Yolanda, at their shared Pennsylvania home.
In his "Call Her Daddy" interview, however, Malik emphasized his lasting affection and respect for Hadid, despite his doubts about the romantic nature of their bond. "Just to say this on record, I will always love G, because she's the reason my child is, you know, on this earth," he stated. "I have the utmost respect for her. I will always love her, but I don't know if I was ever in love with her." He added that had he been truly in love, he believes he "would've been a better version of myself."
Moving Forward in Their Separate Lives
Since 2023, Gigi Hadid has been in a relationship with acclaimed actor Bradley Cooper. Meanwhile, Zayn Malik is preparing for a significant career milestone. His appearance on "Call Her Daddy" comes just weeks ahead of the release of his fifth studio album, "Konnakol," scheduled for unveiling in April. This marks his long-awaited return to music.
Recently, while performing in Las Vegas, Malik appeared to take a lighthearted jab at his former One Direction bandmate, Harry Styles. "Hopefully the ticket prices weren't too high. Just saying!" he quipped to the audience, seemingly referencing reports of steep prices for Styles' upcoming Together Together Tour.
This interview provides a rare glimpse into Malik's personal reflections, highlighting the complex emotional landscape that often follows high-profile relationships, even years after they have ended.
