Paul Wesley & Phoebe Tonkin: Their Relationship Timeline
Did sparks fly solely on screen, or did the chemistry between Paul Wesley and Phoebe Tonkin transcend the fictional world of Mystic Falls? The answer is a resounding yes, their romance was far from just a script.
The saga of Paul Wesley and Phoebe Tonkin is a tale as old as Hollywood itself: two actors meet on set, their on-screen connection spills into real life, and a relationship blossoms amidst the captivating world of television production. Their story, however, carries its own unique nuances, marked by on-again, off-again periods and the ever-present gaze of the public eye. It began in 2013 on the set of The Vampire Diaries, a show already rife with romantic entanglements both on and off camera. Wesley, fresh off his divorce from Torrey DeVitto (who also appeared on the series), found himself drawn to the Australian actress who played Hayley Marshall. Tonkin, known for her role as Cleo Sertori in the Australian teen drama H2O: Just Add Water, was stepping into the supernatural world of vampires and werewolves. Their connection was undeniable, and soon, the pair were publicly dating, adding another layer of intrigue to the already complex dynamics of The Vampire Diaries cast.
| Name | Phoebe Jane Elizabeth Tonkin | Paul Thomas Wasilewski (Paul Wesley) |
| Born | July 12, 1989, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia | July 23, 1982, New Brunswick, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Profession | Actress, Model | Actor, Director, Producer |
| Known For | H2O: Just Add Water, The Secret Circle, The Originals | The Vampire Diaries, Tell Me a Story, Fallen |
| Relationship with Paul Wesley | July 2013 - October 2017 |
Phoebe Tonkin on IMDb
Their relationship played out under the relentless scrutiny of fans and media, fueled by social media snapshots and public appearances. In December 2014, the couple joined newlyweds Candice Accola (Caroline Forbes on The Vampire Diaries) and Joe King at a TrevorLIVE event, offering a glimpse into their seemingly happy partnership. Yet, like many romances born under the Hollywood spotlight, theirs was not without its challenges. They navigated the complexities of their demanding careers, the pressures of public perception, and the inherent difficulties of maintaining a long-term relationship.
By March 2017, whispers of trouble in paradise began to circulate. The question Are Paul Wesley & Phoebe Tonkin back together? popped up online, hinting at a potential break-up. The rumors were soon confirmed: the couple had indeed split. News outlets reported that the relationship had simply run its course, emphasizing that they remained on good terms. This echoed a common narrative in Hollywood breakups, suggesting a peaceful parting of ways rather than a dramatic falling out.
For fans who had invested in their love story, the news was met with disappointment. Many had hoped that their connection, seemingly stronger than other high-profile relationships that blossomed on the set of The Vampire Diaries (like Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrevs), would stand the test of time. But as is often the case with love, predictions proved futile. Life, both on and off screen, continued to evolve. Wesley eventually moved on, marrying Ines de Ramon in 2019 (and later divorcing in 2022), while Tonkin focused on her career, taking on new roles and exploring other ventures.
The story of Paul Wesley and Phoebe Tonkin serves as a reminder of the complexities of relationships, especially those forged in the crucible of celebrity. While their romantic chapter closed in 2017, their shared history remains a significant part of the Vampire Diaries legacy, a testament to the intertwining of life and art, love and work, in the captivating world of entertainment. They dated for four years, a considerable amount of time in the fast-paced world of Hollywood romances. Their journey, from on-screen colleagues to off-screen lovers and eventually amicable exes, reflects the often unpredictable nature of relationships, reminding us that even in the seemingly glamorous world of celebrities, love stories can unfold in surprisingly relatable ways.
Looking back, their relationship timeline underscores the transient nature of love and the unpredictable path it often takes. The couple's journey, from their initial encounter on the set of The Vampire Diaries to their amicable split, captivated fans and served as a constant source of speculation. Their story, like so many others, emphasizes the enduring fascination with celebrity relationships and the human desire to connect with the lives of those who grace our screens.
