Dakota Johnson and Chris Martin Call It Quits After 7 Years: Inside Their Breakup
Hollywood has lost one of its most low-key, fan-favorite couples.
After nearly seven years together, Fifty Shades of Grey star Dakota Johnson and Coldplay frontman Chris Martin have officially ended their relationship. Multiple sources confirmed to E! News and other entertainment outlets that the A-list couple called it quits amicably, citing hectic work schedules and long-distance demands as the primary reason behind the breakup.
Breakup Shock: What Went Wrong?
While neither Johnson, 34, nor Martin, 47, have publicly commented on the split, insiders close to the pair say their demanding careers played a key role in the separation. Between Dakota’s stacked filming schedule and Chris's ongoing global tour with Coldplay, sources say the couple “simply grew apart due to time and distance.”
“They really tried to make it work,” a source close to the duo revealed. “There is still a lot of love and respect between them, but they were just in very different places in their lives and careers.”
The insider added, “It wasn’t a dramatic breakup. No one cheated. It was just life getting in the way.”
A Rare Love Story in Hollywood
First linked in 2017, Johnson and Martin kept their romance famously under the radar, occasionally being spotted together at Los Angeles restaurants, beach getaways in Malibu, or cozying up at Coldplay concerts. Known for their discretion, they rarely spoke publicly about their relationship, choosing to keep their love story private.
Still, that didn’t stop fans from rooting for the couple every step of the way.
In fact, Johnson has been a long-time muse for Martin. The Coldplay frontman even subtly referenced her in multiple songs. Their connection seemed unshakeable—proving that even in the whirlwind of Hollywood, love could be quiet, strong, and sincere.
“They supported each other’s careers and really enjoyed their time together,” said another insider. “They’re just at a crossroads.”
Family Friendly Vibes
Chris Martin shares two children, Apple, 19, and Moses, 17, from his previous marriage to Gwyneth Paltrow, to whom he's remained friendly post-divorce. Johnson was often spotted bonding with his kids and reportedly maintained a close relationship with Paltrow—yes, you read that right—who once called the pair’s relationship “beautiful.”
In 2020, Paltrow famously said in a podcast interview that she "adores" Dakota and hopes she stays in their lives forever. It was a modern love triangle that somehow… worked.
Will There Be a Reunion?
Though their split marks the end of an era, fans shouldn’t count out a future reconciliation just yet. Hollywood has a long history of on-again, off-again love stories (looking at you, Bennifer). But for now, both stars appear to be focusing on their individual paths.
Johnson is currently filming several high-profile projects, including Marvel’s Madame Web and other indie films that are receiving major Oscar buzz. Meanwhile, Martin is continuing Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour, which has them performing across Europe and South America through next year.
“They both want to take time to focus on themselves,” the source adds. “The door isn’t completely closed, but they know they need space.”
Fans React
Social media lit up with buzz after news broke late last night. Twitter users shared throwback clips of the couple, while TikTokers posted montage videos set to Coldplay ballads and interviews with Dakota gushing about Chris. Hashtags like #ChrisAndDakota, #RelationshipGoalsLost, and #CelebrityBreakup started trending quickly.
One fan wrote: “They were so chill and down-to-earth. Why can’t we have one Hollywood couple that makes it?” Another commented: “This one hurts. They seemed so real.”
Maintaining Privacy Post-Split
Despite heartbreaking headlines, both stars are expected to keep a low profile in the coming weeks. Johnson, who has always shunned gossip columns, remains focused on her acting career while Martin, ever the quiet rockstar, is staying committed to the road.
Both continue to respect each other deeply and have decided to remain friends, emphasizing that their split wasn’t riddled with drama. Just two busy lives going in different directions.
So what’s next for Dakota Johnson and Chris Martin?
Only time will tell—because in Hollywood, love stories always have sequels.
For now, we’re wishing both stars the best as they take their next steps. Here’s hoping they find time—for themselves, their families, and maybe, just maybe… for love again.
Stay tuned to E! News for more exclusive updates on your favorite stars.