Navigating a romantic relationship in the public eye can be daunting—something actress and singer Dove Cameron knows all too well.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE magazine on February 27, 2025, the Descendants alum opened up about the emotional challenges of balancing privacy and publicity in her romance with Måneskin lead singer Damiano David.
Reflecting on the anxiety she felt when their relationship first became public in February 2024, after making their red carpet debut as a couple at Clive Davis’ annual Pre-Grammy Gala, Dove shared why she ultimately chose to embrace it. She explained,
“I had done so much growing on my own, just in terms of being okay with who I was and feeling more like I could come back in the public eye… So it was like, why not be a little more normal about this? It’s a beautiful thing. It’s so beautiful to be in love. It just feels normal. I don’t really think about it, if I’m honest”.
Cameron also revealed why she had been hesitant to go public with Damiano, admitting that the fear of public scrutiny played a major role. She candidly shared,
“I’ve been public in the past and I’ve had some not-so-public relationships that I was a little bit less inclined to share. Not because of the people I was seeing, but because it just felt like a scary thing to be really open about. It’s like I got scared”.
Dove Cameron Shares How Damiano David Helped Her Overcome Public Anxiety
Later in the interview, the Boyfriend singer opened up about the unwavering support she received from her beau early in their relationship that ultimately gave her the confidence to go public with their romance.
She revealed that a heartfelt pep talk from David helped shift her perspective, recalling,
“We had a conversation early on, because it’s a weird thing that you have to talk about. He was like, if someone in high school, or a lawyer, nurse or someone working at a coffee shop can post a picture of their partner and share the normal, beautiful parts of their lives, why should it be any different for us?”
Dove wrapped up by praising the Beggin’ singer and sharing the secret to their strong bond, despite their hectic schedules and time apart. She shared,
“I think we’re just extremely lucky. We’ve somehow navigated being apart for long stretches of time… We just really make it work. We are best friends and we are constantly connected. You want to be together all the time, so you just figure out a way to make that happen”.
Dove Cameron and Damiano David first sparked romance rumors in September 2023 when she was spotted attending his concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
After keeping their relationship under wraps for a few months, the two made things official in February 2024 with a swoon-worthy red carpet kiss. Since then, their love has only continued to blossom.
Through love, trust, and unwavering support, Dove and Damiano have found their own rhythm in the spotlight. As their romance continues to flourish, they prove that even in the public eye, love can feel beautifully normal.