Zendaya Shares Insights on Relationship Warning Signs a Year into Engagement with Tom Holland

Zendaya found it easy to recognize that Tom Holland was the right match for her.

One year after the Spider-Man co-stars made their engagement public, the Euphoria actress discussed what she sees as relationship red flags, sharing a simple but effective way to gauge someone's character—especially within their industry.

“A reliable indicator for us on set is how someone treats the crew,” Zendaya explained during an Interview magazine talk with her The Drama co-star Robert Pattinson. “I respect those who show kindness to everyone, not just the lead actors or directors. The crew often witnesses how people behave behind the scenes, away from the cameras.”

Zendaya also emphasized the importance of how a partner treats animals, a sentiment she shares with Robert—who recently became a father with fiancée Suki Waterhouse.

“I’d definitely stand up for my dog,” Zendaya remarked. “Animals are great judges of character.”

She acknowledged that relationships aren’t always straightforward.

“People are complex and layered, and everyone makes mistakes,” Zendaya said. “There are cultural nuances, but some behaviors are just plain rude or mean, while others are kind and genuine.”

She added, “You can know someone for a long time and still discover new sides of them that you hadn’t seen before.”

Reflecting on her relationship with Tom, which became public knowledge in 2021, Zendaya revealed what initially attracted her to him.

“I appreciate someone with natural charisma—like Tom Holland,” she shared in a 2024 BuzzFeed interview. “I’m more reserved, so it takes someone special to draw me out. He’s great at connecting with people effortlessly. You see it on talk shows and interviews; he has that natural ability.”

For more on Zendaya and Tom’s journey together, keep reading…

Tom Holland and Zendaya shared a lighthearted moment at the Marvel panel during San Diego Comic-Con International 2016, ahead of the release of Spider-Man: Homecoming.

The duo appeared onstage together at an award ceremony in Los Angeles.

They attended a photo session for Spider-Man: Homecoming in Madrid.

At the Spider-Man: Far From Home premiere after-party in Hollywood, the pair were seen enjoying the event.

September 2021: Birthday Tribute

Shortly after confirming their relationship, Tom expressed affection for Zendaya.

“My MJ, have the best birthday ever,” he posted on September 1, using her character’s nickname. “Call me when you’re up xxx.”

The couple took part in a photo call for Spider-Man: No Way Home at The Old Sessions House in London.

They also joined a SiriusXM Radio Town Hall event with the Spider-Man: No Way Home cast in New York City.

Zendaya dazzled in a custom Valentino dress while Tom wore a Prada suit at the Los Angeles premiere of Spider-Man: No Way Home.

December 2021: Celebrating Success

Following the release of their third Spider-Man film, Zendaya praised Tom warmly.

“My Spider-Man, I’m so proud of you,” she said. “Some things never change, and luckily for me, neither does @tomholland2013.”

February 2022: Valentine’s Day Outing

The couple enjoyed a stylish, belated Valentine’s Day evening in New York City on February 16.

To celebrate Tom’s birthday, Zendaya shared a charming photo of him enjoying the water.

Tom posted a playful birthday message on Instagram, calling it “possibly the sexiest picture ever taken of me!” Zendaya responded with a heart-eye emoji.

March 2024: Tennis Fun

Zendaya embraced her role in her upcoming film Challengers by attending a tennis match with Tom and her assistant Darnell Appling at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California.

April 2024: Night Out in London

The couple was spotted enjoying a lively evening together in London.

May 2024: Supporting Tom’s Theatre Debut

Zendaya stood by Tom’s side as he premiered his play Romeo and Juliet in London, with the pair seen holding hands after the performance.

October 2024: Launching Bero

Zendaya accompanied Tom to the launch party of his non-alcoholic beer brand, Bero, both dressed in coordinating burgundy outfits.

November 2024: Casual Date in Massachusetts

While Zendaya was filming The Drama in Newbury, Massachusetts, Tom visited her and they enjoyed a relaxed outing for a pint of Bero.

Tom posted on Instagram Stories, “Trying my first Bero out in the wild,” with a photo capturing Zendaya smiling in the background. “I’ll keep you posted.”