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Why Are People So Curious About Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith?
Because both are well known in entertainment, fans naturally wonder how their romance began, how it ended, and what their relationship means today. This Q and A unpacks confirmed moments, offers a clear timeline, and answers the most searched questions with a respectful tone and careful sourcing. The focus is on what reputable outlets reported and what each person shared publicly, not speculation or rumor.
Did Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith Really Date?
Yes. Reputable coverage in 2017 and 2018 documented their relationship. They were photographed kissing in New York City in October 2017, which essentially took the relationship public[2]. By 2018, they were widely recognized as a couple, and later that year Sam Smith acknowledged their split in public comments covered by major media[1].
Who Are Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith in One Helpful Snapshot?
Brandon Flynn is an actor known for portraying Justin Foley in the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. Sam Smith is a multi-platinum, Grammy-winning singer and songwriter recognized for chart-topping hits and powerful ballads. Their connection brought together two rising careers at the time and drew attention from fans across acting and music communities.
When Did Their Dating Go Public and What Was First Reported?
The relationship became public in October 2017 when paparazzi images showed Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn kissing and walking together in New York City[2]. Coverage described the photographs as affectionate and candid, quickly sparking widespread conversation about their romance.
What Is the Quick Summary of Their Romance?
Here is a concise overview that fans often look for first.
- Public start: October 2017 NYC photos showed them kissing[2].
- Public presence: The pair appeared together at events and in everyday moments reported by reputable outlets.
- Split acknowledged: By mid-to-late 2018, Sam Smith publicly addressed the breakup, and media reported the relationship had ended[1].
- Current status: They are not together now, and there is no credible reporting of a reunion.
What Is a Date-Stamped Timeline You Can Scan Quickly?
Use this compact timeline to place key events in context.
| Date | Event | Source |
|---|---|---|
| October 2017 | Photographed kissing in New York City, confirming the romance publicly | [2] |
| 2017 to early 2018 | Spotted together at outings and events, with growing public attention | [2] |
| Mid-to-late 2018 | Sam Smith acknowledged the split in comments covered by major press | [1] |
How Did Their Relationship Unfold From First Photos to Split?
What Stands Out About Late 2017?
The October 2017 NYC photos were a watershed moment, as they showed Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn sharing a kiss and holding hands in public[2]. That coverage marked the first time many fans learned they were dating. Interest accelerated as entertainment outlets began tracking appearances and posts that hinted at the couple’s growing bond.
What Defined the First Months of 2018?
Through early 2018, fans and outlets noted sightings at events and moments shared publicly. The couple’s presence in both music and television circles broadened interest beyond a single fandom. Their schedules were demanding even then, and general coverage framed their pairing as a high-visibility LGBTQ+ romance that fans were happy to see represented.
When Did Signs of a Split Emerge in 2018?
By mid-to-late 2018, news outlets began reporting that the pair had split. Sam Smith later acknowledged the breakup in remarks covered by a leading entertainment outlet, noting the emotional difficulty at the time[1]. That acknowledgment provided a clear public marker that the relationship had ended.
How Did Each Address the Breakup Publicly?
Sam Smith’s comments, reported by People, characterized the breakup as emotionally raw at the time, offering a candid look at a very human moment behind the headlines[1]. Brandon Flynn kept a lower profile regarding public statements, and coverage relied primarily on reporting from photos, appearances, and Smith’s public remarks.
Why Did Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith Break Up?
Neither offered a detailed official explanation. Coverage commonly framed the split in the context of two busy careers that often require travel and extended time apart. That is a frequent challenge for public figures, especially when touring, filming, and promotion all stack up. While fans often ask for a definitive cause, the most accurate answer is that they did not publicly provide a specific reason, and the respectful approach is to accept the information they chose to share. Sam Smith’s comments confirmed the breakup and acknowledged the personal weight it carried at the time[1].
Are Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith Together Now?
No. There is no credible reporting that they are together now. Coverage from 2018 onward frames their romance as a past relationship. Sam Smith’s acknowledgment of the split provided a clear end point, and nothing since has reversed that basic fact[1].
Where Are Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith Now Professionally and Personally?
Both continued to prioritize their careers. Brandon Flynn expanded his acting portfolio after 13 Reasons Why, moving into film and television projects with a focus on complex characters. Sam Smith continued releasing music, touring, and collaborating, while speaking openly over the years about identity and artistry in interviews and performances. Public interest in their dating life has persisted, but both have kept their personal lives relatively private since their split.
How Did Their Relationship Impact LGBTQ+ Visibility and Fan Conversations?
Their romance resonated because it unfolded without apology. The visibility of two successful entertainers publicly affectionate in 2017 and 2018 mattered to many fans. It offered representation during a period when conversations about queer relationships in pop culture were gaining broader space. While no single relationship carries a movement, the way fans rallied around them showed how meaningful simple, everyday affection can be when it’s seen on a public stage.
Can You Still See Photos or Videos of Them Together?
Yes, but largely through archived media coverage rather than current posts. The October 2017 New York City photos appear across major outlets and remain a definitive visual of their romance in the public record[2]. Post-breakup, social media content changed and many images tied to the relationship were pulled down, a common pattern among high-profile couples. If you’re looking for credible visuals, rely on recognized outlets that published images at the time.
What Are the Key Moments in a Simple, Mobile-Friendly Timeline?
Here’s a compact reference designed for quick reading on any device.
| Period | Highlight | Source |
|---|---|---|
| October 2017 | NYC kiss photos go public | [2] |
| Late 2017 to early 2018 | Public outings and growing media attention | [2] |
| Mid-to-late 2018 | Split acknowledged in public comments | [1] |
How Does This Page Choose and Use Sources?
This page leans on reputable entertainment journalism for personal-life details. People’s coverage is used to anchor the public start point in October 2017 and Smith’s later comments acknowledging the split[1][2]. Forums, unverified gossip, or unattributed claims are excluded. When details aren’t publicly confirmed, we say so and avoid speculation.
What If You Want a Short Answer Box You Can Screenshot?
Here is a concise, screenshot-friendly recap.
- Did they date? Yes, publicly seen together in October 2017[2].
- How long did it last? Through 2017 into 2018, then a split acknowledged later that year[1].
- Are they together now? No, there is no credible reporting of a reunion.
- Why did they split? No specific official reason, with coverage often pointing to busy careers; Smith described it as emotionally difficult[1].
- Where to see photos? Reputable outlets that covered the 2017 sightings[2].
What Are Common Misconceptions and How Should Readers Think About Them?
Three things often get blurred. First, not every rumor deserves amplification. Second, the absence of current photos does not suggest a secret reunion. It typically means both people are maintaining privacy. Third, timelines can get fuzzy across outlets; this page uses two reliable anchors. The October 2017 New York City photos confirm the public start[2], and Sam Smith’s later public acknowledgment confirms the end[1].
How Can Fans Respect Their Privacy While Staying Informed?
Follow official interviews, performances, and verified media coverage. Be careful with anonymous tips or unattributed claims. When in doubt, prioritize what each person has shared directly or what reputable outlets have published. If you’re looking for broader pop culture reads, you might also like our explorations of public curiosity about notable personalities, such as Is Phyllis Smith Husband Real, And Is She Married Today? and our coverage of headline-making legal cases like Missouri Teacher Carissa Smith Gets 10 Years for Paying Middle School Boys with Cash, Weed and Booze for Sex Acts.
What Are Practical Takeaways For Readers Who Want Facts Only?
- Anchor to confirmed reports from recognized outlets, especially when personal lives are involved.
- Use a simple timeline for clarity.
- Avoid extrapolating meaning from social media shifts.
- Respect post-breakup privacy and growth for both individuals.
Which Quotes or Paraphrases Are Safest To Rely On?
The safest approach is to rely on reporting that captured demonstrable events and on-the-record remarks. The NYC photos are a widely cited, clear record of the relationship going public[2]. People reported Sam Smith’s acknowledgment of the breakup and its emotional impact, giving readers a direct feel for the end of the relationship without guessing motives[1]. These two anchors are sufficient to understand the arc.
Are There Any Visuals We Can Contextualize For Readers?
Yes. Placeholders below mark moments that outlets have documented, and they align with the public narrative. They are illustrative, not proprietary nor newly published.
How Does This Story Fit Into Larger Trends in Celebrity Coverage?
It reflects how modern celebrity relationships are often first confirmed visually. A candid image, a red carpet glance, or a social post can outpace formal announcements. The Flynn and Smith romance became real to the public through photographs, then defined by a direct acknowledgment of its end. That sequence is common today. The lesson is to prioritize clear, attributable info and treat private lives with care.
What Are The Most-Asked Questions Answered In One Glance?
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Did they date? | Yes, publicly seen kissing in NYC in October 2017[2]. |
| Did they split? | Yes, Sam Smith acknowledged the breakup in 2018 coverage[1]. |
| Are they together now? | No credible reporting indicates a reunion. |
| Why did they split? | No official reason given; Smith described it as emotionally difficult[1]. |
| Where to verify details? | Start with People’s reports on the NYC photos and Smith’s comments[1][2]. |
When Was This Page Last Updated and How Will Updates Work?
Updated December 31, 2025. We review new, credible reporting from recognized outlets and update this page when facts evolve. If either individual shares an on-the-record change in status, we will revise the timeline and answers accordingly. Readers can check the References below for the primary anchors used here.
Would You Like Additional Context About Their Careers?
Brandon Flynn’s screen career has emphasized grounded character work, particularly in ensemble settings. Sam Smith’s discography has explored vulnerability, strength, and connection, with global tours that demand significant time and travel. Those career realities frame why public appearances may be irregular during any relationship and why post-breakup privacy is often the rule rather than the exception.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Did Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith confirm their relationship in real time?
They did not issue a formal joint statement, but the October 2017 New York City photos showing them kissing effectively confirmed it to the public[2].
How long did Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith date?
The public window stretched from late 2017 into 2018. By mid-to-late 2018, Sam Smith acknowledged the breakup in coverage that reached a wide audience[1]. Precise private start and end dates were not issued, which is common for celebrity relationships.
What did Sam Smith say about the breakup?
People reported that Smith publicly acknowledged the split and described it as emotionally difficult at the time, providing a candid window into how they felt[1].
Are Brandon Flynn and Sam Smith still friends?
Neither has provided detailed public commentary about a friendship post-split. In the absence of statements from them, it is best not to infer the state of their personal relationship today.
Are there credible reports that they reunited?
No. There are no credible reports of a reunion. The most trustworthy record remains the NYC photos that marked the start[2] and Smith’s later acknowledgment that marked the end[1].
Where can I see verified photos of them together?
Reputable entertainment coverage from October 2017 includes photographs of them kissing and walking together in New York City[2]. These images are frequently cited when documenting the relationship’s public debut.
Did their relationship carry any broader cultural meaning?
Many fans saw it as a meaningful moment of LGBTQ+ visibility. Public affection between two prominent entertainers can help normalize queer relationships in everyday culture, even without speeches or formal statements.
What is the best way to follow future updates?
Rely on verified interviews, official announcements, and coverage from recognized outlets. This page will update when new information from reliable sources emerges.
Is either person currently dating someone publicly?
Neither has issued a new joint public relationship announcement relevant to this topic. If that changes, reputable outlets will likely report it, and we will update accordingly.
References
- [1] People.com (URL: https://people.com/music/sam-smith-breaks-silence-on-split-from-brandon-flynn/) – “Sam Smith acknowledged the breakup and reflected on its emotional impact in 2018 coverage.”
- [2] People.com (URL: https://people.com/music/sam-smith-kisses-boyfriend-brandon-flynn-nyc/) – “October 2017 photographs captured Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn kissing in New York City, confirming the relationship publicly.”
