Gigi Hadid Reportedly 'Blindsided' by Zayn Malik's 'Humiliating' Remarks on Their Past Relationship
Supermodel Gigi Hadid, 30, is said to be feeling 'blindsided' and humiliated by recent comments from her former partner, singer Zayn Malik, 33. Malik publicly stated that he was never 'in love' with Hadid during their on-and-off six-year romance, which ended in 2021 after the couple welcomed their daughter, Khai, now five years old, in 2020.
Zayn Malik's Controversial Podcast Remarks
Despite an unwritten rule between the exes to avoid public discussion of each other, Malik doubled down on his remarks during an appearance on Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast. He reflected on his understanding of love, suggesting that what he felt for Hadid might have been 'lust' rather than genuine romantic love. 'I don't feel like it was love,' Malik declared, though he clarified that he still loves Hadid 'a crazy amount' as the mother of his child and will always respect her.
Gigi Hadid's Inner Circle Reacts with Disdain
A source close to Hadid expressed outrage at Malik's comments, labeling them 'unnecessary and pathetic.' The insider emphasized the cruelty of implying their daughter was not born from a loving relationship, noting that Hadid has consistently refrained from speaking ill of Malik. 'There is nothing respectful about badmouthing the mother of your child,' the source stated, suggesting the remarks might be a 'grubby ploy' to generate headlines ahead of Malik's new album launch.
Background of the Tumultuous Split
The couple's relationship ultimately dissolved in 2021 following a highly publicized altercation between Malik and Hadid's mother, Yolanda Hadid. Malik pleaded no contest to charges after allegedly pushing Yolanda into a dresser and using offensive language. He completed 360 days of probation and an anger management class. In a 2023 podcast, Malik described the incident as 'family issues' he preferred to keep private, asserting he handled it 'in the best way' to avoid negative narratives for their daughter.
Current Co-Parenting Dynamics and New Romances
Despite the past conflicts, Hadid has previously highlighted their effective co-parenting arrangement, telling Vogue they schedule custody months in advance and support each other with 'love and camaraderie.' She stressed their focus is on raising their daughter with mutual respect, not publicizing their story. Since the breakup, Hadid has moved on, striking up a romance with Hollywood actor Bradley Cooper, 51, after meeting in October 2023.
Zayn Malik's Views on Public Relationships
Malik also revealed during the podcast that he is not seeking another public relationship, having learned from experience that such arrangements 'don't work for me.' He emphasized prioritizing his time and avoiding justifications in public forums, underscoring a desire for privacy amidst ongoing media scrutiny.
