Kendall Jenner and Jacob Elordi may be one of Hollywood's newest couples, but sources say they aren't rushing to put their relationship in the spotlight.
According to reports from Page Six, Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber played a key role in bringing the pair together. Insiders claim the famous couple and their friends encouraged the connection, which eventually blossomed into a romance.
Rumors first took off in April when Jenner and Elordi were spotted kissing at Justin's Coachella afterparty. Footage of the moment later surfaced online after being shared with celebrity gossip account DeuxMoi.
Trying to Keep Things Private
Although news of their relationship quickly spread, sources say Jenner and Elordi have been making an effort to keep things as low-key as possible.
After the Coachella sighting, the pair reportedly avoided public appearances together whenever possible. Still, staying out of the spotlight hasn't been easy.
© The Grosby GroupEarlier this month, the couple attracted attention when photographers caught them attempting to hide their faces while riding in an SUV through Los Angeles. Elordi was behind the wheel, while Jenner tried to avoid the cameras.
Also in the vehicle were Kendall's sister Kylie Jenner and her boyfriend, Timothée Chalamet, following what was reportedly a double date.
Why Kendall Wants to Move Slowly
Sources close to Jenner say she's intentionally taking a different approach to this relationship after several highly publicized romances.
Following past relationships with Bad Bunny and Devin Booker, the model reportedly wants to focus on building a genuine connection before putting her love life on full display.
© Jamie McCarthy"She knows the more public the relationship, the more complicated it becomes. She's trying to have a real relationship versus something that is a public spectacle," a source told Page Six.
The insider added that Jenner wants the relationship to be centered on the two of them rather than outside attention.
"She wants it to be between her and her guy first — rather than her, Jacob, and the public."
Sparks Flew at Coachella
Another source described Jenner as relaxed and reserved during the Coachella afterparty where the romance first became public.
While it's unclear who made the first move, the insider said the chemistry between the pair was obvious.
© Getty ImagesThe source jokingly added, "As long as he's not like his character in Euphoria, I'm happy for her," referring to Elordi's infamous role as Nate Jacobs on the HBO drama.
Jacob Elordi Is Nothing Like His On-Screen Characters
Despite playing several intense and complicated characters on screen, those who know Elordi reportedly describe him very differently in real life.
Sources say the actor comes across as charming, grounded, and easygoing, a stark contrast to some of the darker roles he's portrayed, including Nate Jacobs in Euphoria and Heathcliff in the recent adaptation of Wuthering Heights opposite Margot Robbie.
Double Dates and Romantic Getaways
The couple has reportedly spent plenty of time together in recent weeks.
Over Memorial Day weekend, Jenner and Elordi were spotted enjoying cocktails with Justin and Hailey Bieber at the luxurious San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, not far from Jenner's California property.
According to an eyewitness, Jenner appeared especially affectionate toward the actor throughout the outing.
Earlier that same day, the group reportedly grabbed a meal together at the popular seafood spot Little Mountain.
Hawaiian Escape Fuels More Romance Rumors
Before their Santa Barbara outing, Jenner and Elordi reportedly enjoyed a getaway to Kauai, Hawaii.
The pair were photographed relaxing together near the ocean on a secluded beach, where they appeared to be deep in conversation while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
© FilmMagicJenner was seen sipping rosé while spending time with the shirtless actor, who sported a green baseball cap during the beach day.
The laid-back trip only added fuel to speculation that their relationship is becoming more serious.
What They Have in Common
Sources say one reason Jenner and Elordi connect so well is their similar outlook on work and success.
Although Jenner has faced criticism over the years because of her famous family, those close to her say she has worked hard to establish herself as a top model.
"When Kendall first started modeling, everyone was like 'nepo baby.' But she put in the work. She put in the effort and impressed everyone around her," a source said.
The insider noted that Jenner sees similar qualities in Elordi.
"[Elordi's] a hard-working guy, and seems grounded for who he is. She's attracted to people like that."
For now, it appears the couple is focused on enjoying their relationship away from the glare of constant public attention, even if keeping it private has proven easier said than done.
