Sean Penn Valeria Nicov’s relationship drew public attention in summer 2024, when they were first spotted together in Spain. The couple’s connection surfaced two years after Penn’s divorce from Leila George, marking a new chapter for the actor known for his previous marriages to Madonna and Robin Wright.
In November 2024, Penn and Nicov appeared as a couple on the red carpet at the Marrakech International Film Festival, where Penn received a career achievement award. Their romance, while mostly private, has occasionally been visible at events such as the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and the 2025 Lumière Festival, where Penn was a guest of honor.
Valeria Nicov’s Moldovan Roots and Move to Paris
Valeria Nicov was born and raised in Chișinău, Moldova, before moving to France. She currently works from Paris, represented by the model agency Plan A, confirming her shift to the French capital to advance her career.
Modeling Career Highlights
Nicov is signed with Premium Models in Paris and has built a portfolio that includes campaigns for Caroline Herrera, Dada Sport, La Galpa, and Bonanza. Her presence in fashion circles continues to grow as she takes on various photoshoots and brand collaborations.
Transition to Acting Since 2018
Alongside modeling, Nicov has developed a career in acting, debuting in the film Paris Pigalle in 2018. Her credits include roles in films such as Chacun Chez Soi, Lineman Up: Storm Soldiers 3, and Ténor. On television, she has appeared in recurring parts on Mike and Don’t Worry About the Kids, and had a cameo in Emily in Paris as a bartender.
Additionally, in 2025, Nicov took the stage in the theatrical production Monstre Sacré. Sharing her excitement in February 2025, she posted on Instagram in French alongside promotional images:
So looking forward to this! 🤍Thank you thank you thank you to the most wonderful and funny partners,
Valeria Nicov, Actress
Close Friendship with Camille Razat
Valeria Nicov has formed a notable friendship with Camille Razat, star of Emily in Paris. Their connection began on the set of Paris Pigalle, and Razat has frequently appeared on Nicov’s Instagram. In May 2022, Nicov affectionately captioned a photo of them together as Ma femme, highlighting their close bond.
The following year, they shared more moments outdoors, reflecting their ongoing friendship. In August 2023, Nicov posted:
You burst inside my heart,
Valeria Nicov, Actress
Multilingual Skills and Cultural Interests
According to her IMDb profile, Valeria Nicov speaks several languages including French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Romanian. Her passion for languages is evident, as she often uses different languages in her Instagram captions, demonstrating both fluency and appreciation for cultural diversity.
Addressing the Age Gap Between Penn and Nicov
The couple has attracted attention due to their notable age difference, with a 34-year gap. Sean Penn, born in 1960, was around 64 years old when their relationship became public, while Valeria Nicov was approximately 30. Despite this difference, their appearances together at key cultural events suggest a serious and supportive partnership.
Public Appearances Mark Their Growing Relationship
Their first red carpet appearance as a couple took place at the Marrakech International Film Festival in November 2024, where Penn accepted a career achievement honor while the two were seen holding hands in matching black outfits. Since then, they have attended major cinema events such as the Cannes Film Festival in 2025, notably supporting Bono’s documentary premiere, and the Lumière Festival where Penn was celebrated as a guest of honor.
Though they have maintained a discrete profile for most of their relationship, these public outings mark their increasing visibility as a couple within the film and entertainment circuits.
Significance of Their Relationship in the Public Eye
Sean Penn’s renewed relationship with Valeria Nicov represents a fresh chapter in his personal life following previous high-profile marriages and his recent divorce. Nicov’s expanding career in modeling and acting adds to the interest surrounding their pairing, especially given her international background and language skills.
Their presence at prestigious film festivals and cultural gatherings signals a mutual support that extends into their professional worlds, while the age gap has stirred public curiosity and conversation about their dynamic.
As their relationship unfolds, observers will likely continue watching for how they balance public attention with their private connection, and Nicov’s growing footprint in film and fashion will be part of that narrative going forward.
