While the glitzy lights of Hollywood shine bright, the behind-the-scenes love stories often emerge quietly. Recently, rumors have been swirling about Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro, two rising stars who may have found something special with each other.
The speculation began when the actors were first seen together on January 4, 2025, at W Magazine’s Annual Best Performances Party held at the elegant Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. Reports quickly indicated they had been growing close away from the prying eyes of the public.
Then, just before the curtain rose for Jonathan Bailey's production of Richard II at London’s Bridge Theatre, footage captured the duo sitting together, trying to remain incognito under casual attire—including baseball caps. Despite their attempts to keep things low-key, social media exploded with excitement. One Instagram user, under the handle murderesselinny, exclaimed, “I’m not normal, being happy about this as much as I am is so weird.”
Sources speaking to People confirmed the romantic rumors, saying, “They’ve been really lowkey and have been spending time together quietly.” At 41 years old, Garfield is no stranger to the industry, with notable roles including his dual Academy Award nominations for Hacksaw Ridge and Tick, Tick… Boom!. Meanwhile, the 34-year-old Barbaro recently earned acclaim for her portrayal of Joan Baez, which has put her firmly under the spotlight.
Before Barbara entered the scene, Garfield had been linked to Dr. Kate Tomas, with whom he dated for several months. Their romance concluded earlier than expected when Tomas confirmed their breakup via Instagram on October 12, 2024, stating, “We broke up months ago but I’m sure he will be happy to know he is loved.”
Prior to Tomas, Garfield was romantically involved with model Alyssa Miller and actress Emma Stone, the latter of which drew considerable public interest during their time together, experiencing the ups and downs of love under the lens of the media.
Barbaro, after her previous relationship with film producer Connor Tillman, has also kept her romantic life mostly private, focusing on her burgeoning career. Her recent nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Academy Awards has propelled her to new heights, much like the accolades Garfield has enjoyed. This shared experience of Oscar campaigns brings them closer together, as neither had musical backgrounds before their notable roles involving significant musical elements.
While fans speculate about the depth of Garfield and Barbaro's relationship, both actors are known for their preference to keep their personal lives private, as Garfield once stated, “I have never, and I won’t ever, speak about or confirm or deny anything about my personal life with anyone, ever.”
This concealment has only spurred intrigue among fans and media alike, with many supporting the on-screen and off-screen chemistry of the pair. Their public appearances remain limited, but those who catch sight of them delightfully speculate about their chemistry and connection.
Much of the excitement surrounding Garfield and Barbaro stems from the unpredictable nature of their industry, where relationships can blossom and fade behind the glamorous façade. For now, the Hollywood stage is set with brilliance, but those involved are just being themselves, enjoying each moment out of the spotlight.
Barbaro's performance as Joan Baez is central to conversations around Oscars this season, and fans will undoubtedly keep watch on both stars as they navigate this new chapter. Garfield's previous romances have shaped his public persona, but with Magnolia Barbaro, will they create their own narrative together? Only time will tell, but for the time being, their fans are more than happy to cheer for this budding romance.