Friday, December 26, 2025

Robert Downey Jr. Reacts to Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro’s Relationship—Spider-Man’s “MJ” Finally Found?

Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro’s relationship has attracted a new supporter in Robert Downey Jr., fellow Marvel star and former Spider-Man co-actor. On July 6, 2025, Downey Jr. appeared to acknowledge the budding romance by liking an Instagram post celebrating the couple at Wimbledon, where they openly displayed their affection.

The post by fan account @marvelous.heroes captured the couple sharing smiles, holding hands, and a kiss, seemingly confirming months of speculation. Although the like from Downey Jr.’s verified account was later removed, multiple fans noted his interaction, suggesting subtle approval of Garfield finally finding a significant other.

Details on Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro’s Relationship Journey

Andrew Garfield had notable relationships in the past, including with Emma Stone, Alyssa Miller, and Kate Tomas. His connection with Monica Barbaro first became public in January 2025 at W Magazine’s Best Performances event, where they were photographed together with other celebrities. By February, the couple was spotted attending a London West End theater performance of Richard II. A source told PEOPLE that their relationship was “really lowkey” and they spent time together quietly.

Throughout March 2025, other sightings included their attendance at an Oscars afterparty hosted by Beyoncé and Jay-Z, as well as casual outings like grocery shopping in Malibu. Before her appearance at the Met Gala, Garfield was even seen waiting outside Barbaro’s New York hotel, all hinting at an ongoing relationship that the actor has chosen to keep private.

Andrew Garfield
Image of: Andrew Garfield

When speaking to Esquire in 2024, Garfield emphasized his desire to maintain privacy regarding his personal life, stating,

I have never, and I won’t ever, speak about or confirm or deny anything about my personal life with anyone, ever.

—Andrew Garfield

He reiterated this commitment in an interview with Bustle, affirming his intention to protect his private and personal boundaries firmly.

Collaborations Between Garfield and Barbaro Extend to the Big Screen

Beyond their personal relationship, Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro are also professional collaborators. Garfield has worked with director Luca Guadagnino on multiple projects recently. After starring alongside Julia Roberts and Ayo Edebiri in After the Hunt, set to release on October 10, 2025, Garfield and Barbaro will appear together in Guadagnino’s upcoming film Artificial.

Artificial, reportedly centered around the story of the artificial intelligence company OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, also stars Oscar nominee Yura Borisov. Monica Barbaro expressed excitement about the project during a promotion for her Netflix series FUBAR, saying,

I’m so excited to work with Luca, he’s just one of my favorite directors and I think everyone aspires to work with him so I’m excited about that.

—Monica Barbaro

When asked about collaborating with Garfield specifically, Barbaro responded with laughter and added,

I’m excited to work with the whole cast, it’s gonna be a great time.

—Monica Barbaro

Simon Rich penned the script and will also serve as a producer on the film, with David Heyman, known for producing James Bond films, involved under Heyday Films. Filming is expected to begin by the end of 2025, especially with Guadagnino’s other project, Sgt. Rock, being delayed.

The Broader Significance of This Relationship in Hollywood

The public acknowledgment of Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro’s relationship represents a blend of personal and professional worlds, as they share moments both on screen and off. Robert Downey Jr.’s subtle endorsement hints at the supportive nature within this Marvel-connected community, which fans have cherished over the years.

For Garfield, who has carefully guarded his private life, appearing at high-profile events like Wimbledon and joining Barbaro in major projects marks a rare openness about this relationship. The couple’s growing visibility could enrich their on-screen chemistry and elevate public interest in their collaborative work.

As they move forward together both romantically and professionally, audiences eagerly anticipate seeing how their personal bond might influence their artistic endeavors, particularly in Artificial. Their relationship serves as a reminder that even beloved celebrities value and seek genuine connections, making this storyline compelling both on and off camera.