Before taking their relationship to the next level with an engagement, Tom Holland and Zendaya made a smaller, yet equally symbolic, commitment to one another. The beloved duo reportedly got matching tattoos—tiny initials inked onto their bodies—just weeks before the Spider-Man actor proposed.
A Commitment in Ink
On November 27, Tom and Zendaya visited the Boston Tattoo Company, a popular tattoo parlor known for its minimalist designs. Tattoo artist Lily Jarnryd shared that she etched a discreet “t” under Zendaya’s armpit and a matching “z” on Tom’s ribcage.
“They were lovely to meet and it was a lot of fun!” Jarnryd told People magazine.
While fans eagerly dissect every public moment of the couple, this quiet visit to the tattoo studio stayed under the radar—at least until news of their engagement started making waves.
A Sparkling Ring and a Low-Key Proposal
Zendaya’s dazzling diamond ring at the Golden Globe awards set the internet abuzz. The actress reportedly couldn’t contain her excitement, even if she initially planned to keep the engagement under wraps.
According to sources, Tom popped the question over the holiday season in a “low-key” and private manner, a decision that reflects the couple’s usual preference for privacy.
“Zendaya tried to keep it a secret but was very excited to show off her ring,” an insider revealed to UsWeekly. “She didn’t think people would notice but didn’t care either way.”
The holidays were the perfect time for Tom to make the leap, as the couple had long discussed their future together without any rush or external pressure.
Years in the Making
Tom and Zendaya first crossed paths in 2018 on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming. While fans speculated about their off-screen chemistry, the pair remained tight-lipped about their romance until 2021.
An insider close to the couple shared that the proposal felt like the “right time” for Tom, who is ready to settle down.
“They had many conversations over the years, but there was never any pressure,” the source added. “Zendaya is giddy and excited. She knew it might have been coming but never put pressure on it.”
Balancing Fame and Privacy
Despite their A-list status, Tom and Zendaya have worked hard to keep their relationship grounded and out of the public eye. They rarely make joint red-carpet appearances and prefer to let their work speak for itself.
Still, their affection for each other occasionally shines through. Tom recently opened up about Zendaya during an appearance on the Dish podcast, calling her the “best thing” that has ever happened to him.
“Studios love it, one hotel room. Separate drivers. We’re not crazy now. Listen, it’s work, alright?!” Tom joked before turning serious. “It’s just that perfect thing when you’re on set… That familiar glance at each other, like, ‘Can’t wait to talk about that later.’”