Lupita Nyong’o Speaks Out About Janelle Monáe Dating Rumors

Lupita Nyong’o is finally addressing those Janelle Monáe dating rumors. The Oscar-winner has been BFFs with the Glass Onion star since they first met at the Met Gala in 2014, and their close friendship sparked romance rumors over the years. Nyong’o, who revealed her relationship with boyfriend Selema Masekela in 2022, recently told Rolling Stone she’s “not surprised” by the stories.

“She has magnetism that they were obviously picking up on,” she told the outlet, E! News reported. “She is that enigmatic. People are curious about enigmatic people.”

Nyong’o added she doesn’t mind being linked, romantically or otherwise, with Monáe.

“I don’t mind being associated with her in any capacity,” she said.

The actor also gave her BFF flowers, calling Monáe “extremely gifted” at performing.

“It’s built into her spirit,” she said. “Her openness creates intimacy onscreen. It’s really cool to see her move from one thing to another and do it with such mastery.”

But as close as Nyong’o and Monaé may be, the Black Panther star noted she doesn’t know everything about the multi-hyphenate.

“Just because you’re a close friend of hers doesn’t mean you get to know everything about her. I think that’s what makes her interesting as an artist,” Nyong’o said.

Monaé, who came out as pansexual in 2018, also spoke about her enigmatic nature to Rolling Stone, explaining it’s her way of protecting and keeping some things to herself.

“I have a policy and agreement with myself—that is a part of my life that I want to keep private,” the 37-year-old said. “I can talk about my identity, I can talk about my sexuality. I can talk about all things Janelle Monáe without having to go into detail. You know what I mean? It’s not necessary.”

Monaé later added she believes everyone has the right to tell their story how and when they want to.

“I’m not obligated to share my story,” she said. “Nobody’s obligated.”