Chris Martin is reportedly dating actress Sophie Turner, but sources indicate that the Coldplay frontman remains emotionally affected by his split from Dakota Johnson. The 48-year-old musician has been seen with Turner in recent weeks, following the end of his nearly eight-year relationship with Johnson in June 2023.
End of a Private Romance
Martin and Johnson, who began dating in 2017, were known for their low-key relationship. The couple rarely made public appearances or discussed their love life in interviews. Despite their private approach, insiders described their connection as deeply affectionate, making the breakup particularly challenging for Martin.
A source revealed to Star Magazine that Martin struggles to move forward emotionally. “There’s a real sadness when he speaks about Dakota because he has a lot of regret,” the insider shared. “For years, he called her the love of his life. They went through so much together, and he never thought he’d be in this position in his late 40s.”
New Beginnings Amid Lingering Feelings
In recent months, Martin has been spotted enjoying outings with Sophie Turner, who finalized her divorce from Joe Jonas earlier this year. Their appearances together have sparked speculation about a budding romance. However, sources close to Martin suggest that he is still emotionally tied to Johnson. “Chris is making the best of it and enjoying these dates with Sophie,” the source noted, “but it’s painfully obvious he’s still hung up on Dakota.”
Turner, 29, and Martin were first seen dining together in late September, yet neither has publicly discussed the nature of their relationship. Those close to Johnson indicate that she was the one who ended their relationship, seeking to break free from an emotional cycle that had become detrimental. According to reports, Johnson aimed to move on and re-establish her independence.
“Chris did not want things to end with Dakota — he’s tried several times to lure her back,” claimed the source. “But Dakota was determined to break the pattern that had gotten pretty toxic by the end.”
A central issue was Martin’s uncertainty regarding marriage, which reportedly frustrated Johnson. “He kept dangling that carrot and never following through,” the insider explained. Additionally, lifestyle differences and control issues contributed to the strain on their relationship.
While Johnson, 36, focuses on her career with new projects and her production company TeaTime Pictures, Martin is navigating his world tour and reflecting on his past relationship. Friends describe him as nostalgic, even while pursuing new connections. “He’s always been someone who feels things deeply,” a friend told Reality Tea. “It’s clear Dakota still holds a special place in his heart.”
Looking Ahead
Currently, Martin seems committed to maintaining a friendly relationship with Johnson while exploring new romantic possibilities. Yet, friends suggest any future relationship will inevitably be compared to his time with the Fifty Shades actress. “Dakota was his anchor for so long,” one source remarked. “Even if he moves on publicly, emotionally he’s still processing the loss.”
Neither Martin nor Johnson has publicly addressed the breakup or the rumors surrounding Turner. Both continue to focus on their respective careers, with Martin preparing for Coldplay’s upcoming tour and Johnson involved in multiple film releases slated for 2026.
Fans of the former couple remain hopeful for a reconciliation. As one commenter noted on social media, “Some love stories just never really end.”
