Sean Penn, the 65-year-old acclaimed Hollywood actor, and his 30-year-old girlfriend, model and actress Valeria Nicov, continue their relationship into 2024, capturing public attention due to their considerable age difference. Their romance, which became public late last year, has been highlighted during appearances at international film events and casual outings in California, with the couple first debuting at the Marrakech International Film Festival in November 2024.
The Rise of Valeria Nicov: Actress, Model, and Multitalented Artist
Valeria Nicov, originally from Moldova, pursues a career as both an actress and a model. She has featured in French television series such as “Mike” and “Don’t Worry About the Kids,” and appeared in the popular show “Emily in Paris.” Her formal training includes studies at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) and Cours Florent, demonstrating a strong background in performing arts.
Nicov’s modeling work involves collaborations with well-known brands like Carolina Herrera, Dada Sport, and Bonanza, under the representation of Premium Models. Aside from acting and modeling, she has skills in playing the piano, boxing, and horseback riding—known as equitation—a passion she often showcases through Instagram posts from photo shoots, including one in Italy for Dada Sports. Her social media presence also reveals her fluency in multiple languages, including French, English, Spanish, Russian, and some Italian, which she frequently features in her captions.
Timeline of Sean Penn and Valeria Nicov’s Public Appearances
Their relationship first attracted media notice in early September 2024, when Penn was seen publicly displaying affection for Nicov while in Madrid, Spain. The pair were later photographed together at the Los Angeles Airport in October 2024. Despite these sightings, they officially confirmed their relationship by walking the red carpet at the Marrakech International Film Festival in Morocco that November, where Penn received a career achievement honor.
In January 2026, Penn attended the Golden Globe Awards alone but reunited with Nicov shortly after for a low-key date in Santa Monica, California. Photographs from that outing show the couple walking hand in hand, with Penn dressed casually in a navy jacket and gray pants and Nicov wearing an all-black ensemble.
Sean Penn’s Past Relationships and Reflections on Love
Before his relationship with Nicov became public, Sean Penn expressed a desire to remain unburdened by emotional complications. In June 2024, he told The New York Times that he valued his freedom and was cautious about romance, wary of repeating past heartbreaks. He shared,
“If I’m going to be in a relationship, I’m still going to be free.”
Penn further reflected,
“I’m not going to be hurting,”
followed by,
“I don’t sense I’ll have my heart broken by romance again.”
Penn’s previous marriages include unions with Madonna (1985–1989), Robin Wright (1996–2010), and Australian actress Leila George (2020–2022). His romantic history also involves high-profile partners such as Charlize Theron, Scarlett Johansson, and Olga Korotyayeva.
Significance of This Relationship in Sean Penn’s Life and Public Image
The relationship between Sean Penn and Valeria Nicov marks a new chapter in the actor’s personal life, illustrating his willingness to embrace companionship while maintaining personal freedom. Nicov’s rising career and vibrant presence add fresh energy to Penn’s public image, attracting media and fan interest in their joint appearances. Their age difference and Penn’s prior comments on love bring a contemplative note to their romance, highlighting how mature relationships evolve amid Hollywood’s spotlight.
As 2024 progresses, fans and observers will likely watch for further developments in their relationship and Nicov’s continuing career growth. The couple’s blend of professional accomplishments and public moments speaks to changing expectations for high-profile partnerships in the entertainment industry.
