We’ve all had that one relationship we just can’t seem to shake. You know, the one that pops back into your life like an old hoodie you thought you donated. For Bella Hadid and The Weeknd (real name Abel Tesfaye), that was their love story—a whirlwind romance that started young, got complicated, and then came back for a sequel.

So, how old was Bella when she first dived into this famous connection? She was just 18 when they started dating in 2015. Think about being 18—you’re probably still figuring out your coffee order, let alone a high-profile relationship.

Bella was fresh off her runway debut and barely out of high school. The Weeknd, on the other hand, was already a global superstar with a voice that makes you feel like you’re driving through neon-lit rain. It’s like bringing a new puppy to a party full of seasoned cats.

The first chapter: young love and paparazzi

They went public when she was 19, attending awards shows and Coachella. It was all very Instagram-perfect, but we all know those early 20s are a roller coaster of self-discovery. The relationship lasted about a year before they called it quits in 2016.

You know that feeling when you try to reheat a pizza from last weekend? Sometimes it’s still tasty, and sometimes it’s just a soggy mess. That’s basically what happened when they reconnected in 2018, when Bella was 21.

Bella Hadid & The Weeknd: A Timeline Of Their RelationshipBella Hadid & The Weeknd: A Timeline Of Their Relationship

By then, she had grown up a lot—more confident in her skin, more aware of her worth. But the timing still wasn't right, and they officially ended things for good by 2019. It’s the classic “right person, wrong time” story we’ve all lived through with a friend or a situationship.

Why should you care? (Besides the gossip)

Look, we love a good timeline because it puts our own messy love lives into perspective. When you’re 18, you’re practically a baby adult—Bella was navigating fame, anxiety, and a mega-famous boyfriend all at once. It’s a reminder that even supermodels aren’t immune to heartbreak and growth.

Bella Hadid Dating The Weeknd: Details!Bella Hadid Dating The Weeknd: Details!

This little age check also makes you think about how you changed from 18 to 22. Remember who you dated at 18? You probably cringe a little, but you also learned something. Bella’s story is basically our story, just with more designer dresses and Grammy nominations.

Plus, The Weeknd wrote songs like “Call Out My Name” about their breakup. So when you hear that crying-in-the-car anthem, you now know the real-life timeline behind it. It adds a layer of relatable drama to your morning commute playlist.

Bella Hadid Dating History: Who All Has The Famous Model Dated?Bella Hadid Dating History: Who All Has The Famous Model Dated?

The sweet takeaway

In the end, Bella and Abel met at a time when they were both becoming who they are today. She was a teenager learning the ropes; he was a star still figuring out love in the spotlight. Their age gap? Just four years, but emotionally, those years can feel like a decade.

Next time you scroll through old photos and wonder about your ex, just remember: Bella Hadid was 18 when she fell for The Weeknd. If she can survive that level of public scrutiny and come out stronger, you can survive your own messy chapter. Now go hug your inner 18-year-old—and maybe skip the dry shampoo.