Why Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid’s Age Gap Is Raising Questions — and What a CEO Says About It
Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid’s relationship has blossomed into a deeply romantic and supportive partnership, despite their 20-year age difference. Cooper, 50, and Hadid, 29, first crossed paths in late 2023 at a mutual friend’s child’s birthday party. They made their relationship public in early 2024, and Hadid recently confirmed it with a heartfelt Instagram post during her 30th birthday celebration. Brandon Wade, CEO and founder of Seeking.com, provided insight on age-gap relationships, particularly in the celebrity world. Here’s what Wade thinks.
Brandon Wade, CEO and founder of Seeking.com, noticed a shift in the public perception of age gaps
No one expected Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid to date. Despite their age difference, the couple’s bond is strengthened by shared values, including their roles as single parents — Cooper to 8-year-old Lea with ex Irina Shayk, and Hadid to 4-year-old Khai with ex Zayn Malik. Hadid allegedly appreciates Cooper’s maturity and shared parenting experience, which has fostered their strong connection.
Brandon Wade of Seeking.com commented to Showbiz Cheat Sheet that the “public perception of age-gap relationships, especially in Hollywood, has shifted noticeably in recent years.” In the past, “such relationships often reflected broader cultural norms and were occasionally glamorized, particularly older male celebrities dating younger female partners. Today, however, significant age differences typically provoke skepticism, concern, or judgment. Society increasingly questions whether these relationships truly reflect equality and emotional maturity.”
Wade noticed that he and his wife, Dana, noticed how “initial skepticism can evolve into acceptance once people understand the depth and sincerity” of their bond.
“Celebrities often gravitate toward age-gap relationships because their unique life experiences and demanding careers naturally align with individuals at different stages of life,” Wade continued. “Emotional maturity can transcend chronological age, allowing meaningful relationships to form despite apparent differences in life experiences. Celebrities frequently find commonality with partners who share similar pressures or challenges, regardless of age.”
Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper may feel pressure from public scrutiny and disapproval of their relationship
Brandon Wade explained how age-gap relationships can become “successful and lasting partnerships.”
“Age-gap relationships can certainly be motivated by various factors, including power dynamics, shared interests, mutual attraction, personal desires, or emotional needs,” he shared with Showbiz Cheat Sheet. “However, successful and lasting partnerships tend to be rooted in emotional depth, respect, and aligned life goals rather than driven solely by power, wealth, or status.”
That said, societal judgment can take its toll. If Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper face too much external pressure, they may call it quits.
“Couples facing criticism or disapproval from their social circles often encounter stress that can strain even the strongest partnerships,” the CEO added.
Gigi Hadid says she’s extremely ‘happy’ with her relationship with Bradley Cooper
Gigi Hadid spoke to Vogue in March 2025 regarding her romance with Bradley Cooper. She described the relationship as “very romantic and happy,” and she acknowledged that she can’t correct all of the false information she sees about her and Cooper. When she hears false claims, “you just have to let it go; you can’t always correct everything.”
Hadid noted that previously, she might not have been ready for this type of love. “I think just getting to the point where knowing what you want and deserve in a relationship is essential,” she said, “and then to find someone that is in a place in their life where they know what they want and deserve … and you both do work separately to come together and be the best partner that you can be. I just feel really lucky. Yeah, lucky’s the word.”
Hadid noted that she respects Cooper “as a creative.” He also encourages and believes in her. “For those people you admire to encourage you, it can create so much belief in yourself,” she said. “Like, what’s the worst thing if I auditioned for this? You jump and take the leap.”
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