The Split & The Sequel: Where Are Sam Smith And Brandon Flynn Now In 2025?
The whirlwind romance between global music sensation Sam Smith and 13 Reasons Why star Brandon Flynn captivated fans and paparazzi alike in late 2017. Their highly publicised, yet relatively brief, nine-month relationship became a major talking point in Hollywood and the music industry, solidifying them as one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ celebrity couples of the era. Now, in December 2025, years after their amicable split, both stars have moved on, finding new, stable relationships that have once again put them in the spotlight.
The story of Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn is a classic tale of two rising stars whose demanding careers ultimately clashed with their private lives. While the initial spark was undeniable, leading to iconic kissing photos and an "Instagram official" confirmation, the pressures of superstardom proved to be the ultimate test. Today, we look back at their time together, the reasons behind the split, and the significant, high-profile relationships they have since embarked upon.
Sam Smith & Brandon Flynn: A Complete Profile and Biography
To fully appreciate the scope of their relationship, it is essential to understand the individual careers and backgrounds of the two celebrities involved. Both Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn are major figures in their respective fields of music and acting, known for their artistry and visibility within the LGBTQ+ community.
Sam Smith Profile
- Full Name: Samuel Frederick Smith
- Born: May 19, 1992 (Age 33 in 2025)
- Birthplace: London, England
- Occupation: Singer, Songwriter
- Pronouns/Identity: Non-binary (They/Them)
- Career Highlights: Rose to fame in 2012 on Disclosure's "Latch"; Debut album In the Lonely Hour (2014); Oscar and Golden Globe winner for "Writing's on the Wall" (Spectre); Four-time Grammy Award winner, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year for "Stay With Me"; Global hits include "Unholy," "Too Good At Goodbyes," and "I’m Not the Only One."
- Current Status (2025): Publicly dating fashion designer Christian Cowan.
Brandon Flynn Profile
- Full Name: Brandon Paul Flynn
- Born: October 11, 1993 (Age 32 in 2025)
- Birthplace: Miami, Florida, U.S.
- Occupation: Actor
- Career Highlights: Best known for his breakout role as Justin Foley in the Netflix teen drama series 13 Reasons Why (2017–2020); Other roles include Mike the Intern in *BrainDead* and appearances in *True Detective*.
- Current Status (2025): Reportedly married to playwright Jordan Tannahill.
The Nine-Month Whirlwind: Sam and Brandon’s Relationship Timeline
The romance between the British soul singer and the American actor was a brief, intense, and highly photographed affair. The timeline of their relationship, from secret meetings to public confirmation and eventual split, paints a picture of a connection that struggled to survive under the harsh glare of the public eye.
The Electric Beginning (October 2017)
Dating rumors first began swirling in October 2017 when Sam Smith, fresh off the release of their second album, The Thrill of It All, was spotted kissing Brandon Flynn in New York City's Greenwich Village. The candid photos of the pair walking arm-in-arm and sharing affectionate moments immediately became viral, confirming to the world that the "Too Good At Goodbyes" singer had found a new partner.
Going Instagram Official (December 2017)
After months of speculation and public sightings, the couple made their relationship "Instagram official" in December 2017. Flynn posted a playful photo of the two wearing unicorn-themed travel neck pillows, solidifying their status as a genuine couple. This public declaration was a significant moment for both stars, who had previously been quite private about their dating lives.
The Sudden Split (Mid-2018)
By June 2018, just nine months after they were first linked, reports emerged that Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn had broken up. The news was confirmed by the deletion of photos of each other from their respective social media accounts, a modern-day signal of a celebrity split.
The intensity of the relationship was evident in Sam Smith’s comments shortly after the breakup, noting that the split was "still quite raw." While no single dramatic reason was ever confirmed, Smith later opened up about the inherent difficulty of maintaining a private relationship while navigating global superstardom, suggesting the immense pressure and constant travel were major contributing factors to the separation.
Where They Are Now: Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn in 2025
Years have passed since the end of the Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn era, and both individuals have experienced significant personal and professional evolution. Their current dating lives are a testament to their growth, with both finding love with partners who complement their high-profile careers.
Sam Smith and Christian Cowan: The Fashion Power Couple
As of 2025, Sam Smith is in a committed relationship with British fashion designer Christian Cowan. Their romance reportedly began in 2022, and they have since become one of the most stylish and visible couples in the entertainment world.
Christian Cowan is known for his bold, theatrical, and often playful designs, which perfectly align with Sam Smith’s increasingly flamboyant and expressive public image. The two have been photographed together on numerous occasions, including making their first public red carpet appearance as a couple at the Met Gala. Sam Smith frequently shows support for Cowan's career, attending his fashion shows and wearing his creations, demonstrating a strong, supportive partnership that has endured the pressures of the spotlight.
This relationship marks a new, confident chapter for Sam Smith, who has continued to dominate the music charts with hits like "Unholy." Their partnership with Cowan is a clear indication that they have successfully navigated the challenges of dating in the public eye, finding a balance between their professional demands and personal happiness.
Brandon Flynn and Jordan Tannahill: Marriage and New Beginnings
Brandon Flynn has also found lasting love, reportedly marrying Canadian playwright, novelist, and filmmaker Jordan Tannahill. While the exact details of their wedding remain private, the news of their commitment to each other has been confirmed, marking a major milestone in Flynn's life post-13 Reasons Why.
Jordan Tannahill is a highly acclaimed figure in the literary and theatre world, known for his provocative and influential works. This pairing suggests a shift toward a more creatively and intellectually aligned relationship for Flynn. Tannahill’s background offers a different dynamic than the high-octane world of Hollywood celebrity, potentially providing the grounding and privacy that the actor sought after his previous public relationships.
Flynn’s career has also continued to evolve, with his focus shifting to diverse film and television projects. His marriage to Tannahill highlights a successful transition into a new, more mature phase of his personal life, away from the intense media scrutiny of his early career.
Topical Authority: The Enduring Legacy of Sam and Brandon
Despite their short duration, the Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn relationship holds a significant place in modern pop culture and LGBTQ+ representation. Their very public romance, captured in those viral New York City photos, helped to normalise and celebrate same-sex relationships on a global scale at a time when both stars were at the peak of their mainstream popularity. The entities surrounding their story—from Sam’s Grammy-winning music to Brandon’s role as Justin Foley, a character dealing with complex issues on a major Netflix series—only amplified their cultural impact.
The fact that both have moved on to successful, long-term relationships with other high-profile partners (Christian Cowan and Jordan Tannahill) further demonstrates a positive narrative: that even intense, short-lived celebrity romances can lead to personal growth and eventual stability. Their story serves as a reminder that the challenges of fame are real, but finding a fulfilling connection is possible, even when the world is watching.
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