Who Is Lorde’s Ex-Boyfriend? All About Justin Warren (and How She Announced Their Breakup)

Lorde’s Ex-Boyfriend Revealed: An Insight into Justin Warren’s Relationship with the Singer

Lorde, the talented singer known for hits like “Royals” and “Green Light,” has recently opened up about her past relationship with music executive Justin Warren. The couple was first linked romantically in 2015 and reportedly called it quits in 2023, leaving fans curious about their love story and subsequent breakup.

In a newsletter to her fans in September 2023, Lorde hinted at heartbreak, sparking rumours of a split with Warren. She expressed her emotions, stating, “I ache all the time, I forget why and then remember.” However, it wasn’t until a Rolling Stone interview in May 2025 that Lorde officially confirmed the end of their relationship, shedding light on their private romance.

Justin Warren, an American promotions director for Universal Music in New Zealand, met Lorde back in 2009, although their romantic involvement didn’t begin until six years later. Their relationship was kept under wraps, and the couple rarely made public appearances together, maintaining a level of privacy throughout their time together.

Being roughly 17 years older than Lorde, Warren’s age raised some eyebrows, especially after Lorde’s previous relationship with photographer James Lowe, who was seven years her senior. Lorde’s inclination towards older partners was well-noted by her mother, Sonja Yelich, who acknowledged her daughter’s preference in an interview with Rolling Stone in 2014.

The couple conveniently avoided public confirmation of their relationship as Lorde opted to distance herself from social media to protect her mental well-being. This decision shielded their romance from the public eye, with Lorde only sporadically sharing updates, mainly focused on music promotion or social causes close to her heart.

Engagement rumours surrounding Lorde and Warren surfaced in 2019 when Lorde was spotted wearing a silver ring on her left hand in New Zealand. The speculation resurfaced in 2021 when she was seen wearing a different ring at a public event. Despite the buzz, Lorde maintained her silence on the matter, keeping details of her personal life incredibly private.

Confirming their breakup in May 2025, Lorde described the pain of separation with grace and respect, highlighting the value she still holds for their past relationship. After the split, Lorde reflected on her need for solitude, moving to London to find herself outside the context of a romantic partnership, marking a period of self-discovery and growth.

In conclusion, Lorde’s relationship with Justin Warren, although shrouded in secrecy, provides a glimpse into the complexities of love and heartbreak in the public eye. Their story serves as a reminder of the challenges of maintaining privacy in the midst of fame and the importance of self-reflection in the aftermath of a significant relationship.