Zayn Malik Faces Intense Backlash Over Love Confession
Former One Direction star Zayn Malik has ignited a firestorm of controversy after publicly declaring he was never in love with his ex-partner, supermodel Gigi Hadid. The revelation came during a candid interview on the popular Call Her Daddy podcast, where Malik, 33, discussed his past relationships and evolving understanding of love.
Six-Year Relationship Under Scrutiny
The couple first began dating in 2015 and shared a highly publicized on-again, off-again romance that spanned six years. Their relationship produced daughter Khai, born in 2020, before ultimately ending in 2021 following reported tensions between Malik and Hadid's mother. Despite their separation, both have maintained they co-parent amicably and with mutual respect.
During the podcast interview, Malik explained his perspective: 'My understanding of love is always developing. At that moment in time, I might have thought it was love, but as I've got older, I've 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.'
Clarification and Controversy
Malik attempted to clarify his position, telling host Alex Cooper that he will 'always love G' and has the 'utmost respect' for the woman who gave him his child. However, he drew a distinction between loving someone and being in love, stating: 'I will always love her, but I don't know if I was in love with her. I do love her a crazy amount, but no, I don't think I was in love with her at that point. Otherwise, I would have been a better version of myself.'
These comments have sparked widespread outrage among fans and observers, with many criticizing Malik for what they perceive as unnecessary public humiliation of his former partner.
Fan Reactions: From Outrage to Defense
Social media platforms erupted with reactions to Malik's confession. One user expressed particular outrage: 'Imagine being with someone for six years and having his child only for him to go on a podcast and say 'I don't think I was ever in love with her' - diabolical and evil.'
Another critic focused on the public nature of the revelation: 'What Zayn said about Gigi is genuinely so heartless and unnecessary. The absolute lack of respect saying this about the mother of your child. Even if you genuinely feel that way, why share it with the world?'
Some fans pointed to Hadid's previously expressed desire for privacy regarding their relationship. In a past Vogue interview, Hadid emphasized: 'There is the hard part of the world knowing this much, and thinking they know everything. And at the end of the day, we're not interested in giving everyone our whole story.'
However, not all reactions were negative. Some defended Malik's honesty, with one supporter noting: 'Zayn's words feel so genuine and respectful. Recognising that love evolves and still cherishing Gigi for the incredible mother she is - that's beautiful co-parenting energy.'
Relationship History and Current Dynamics
The couple's relationship was marked by several public breakups and reconciliations. They first split just seven months into their romance, were spotted dating other people during separations, and even issued a formal split statement in March 2018 before reconciling two months later.
Despite the romantic dissolution, both have emphasized their commitment to co-parenting. Hadid revealed in her Vogue interview that they plan custody schedules months in advance and approach their new dynamic with 'love, and a feeling of camaraderie.' Malik confirmed he shares custody 50% of the time.
Following the death of former One Direction bandmate Liam Payne in October 2024, Hadid reportedly reached out to offer support to her ex-partner. Meanwhile, Hadid has moved on with actor Bradley Cooper, 50, while Malik stated on the podcast that he's not currently looking for love and prefers to avoid public relationships in the future.
The controversy highlights the complex intersection of celebrity privacy, evolving personal perspectives, and the public nature of modern relationships, particularly when children are involved.
