Jonathan Owens, the professional American football player and husband of Olympic gymnastics legend Simone Biles, has shared insights into the challenges and joys of navigating fame associated with his high-profile relationship. Speaking in an interview with The Athletic, Owens reflected on how his life has transformed since dating Biles, a journey that began on a dating app in 2020.
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At 31 years old, Owens, a safety for the Indianapolis Colts, admitted that the sudden attention brought both positive and negative experiences. Initially overwhelmed by the spotlight, he described feeling as though he had become a “shell” of himself. “It was tough at first because I’m a pretty quiet, private person,” he explained, revealing that the scrutiny he faced from the public was challenging to handle.
Owens highlighted the criticism that can come with fame, particularly from social media. He recalled a specific incident in 2023 after an appearance on The Pivot podcast, during which he made a comment that sparked backlash. “I didn’t have my notifications on, and Simone was like, ‘Have you been on your Instagram?’” he recounted. This moment marked his first real encounter with public criticism, as he found himself branded as “Mr. Biles” by many, along with various negative comments about his life.
Despite the challenges, Owens has learned to embrace both the positive and negative aspects of his fame. “You take the good with the bad, and at the end of the day, I’m living my dream,” he stated. He has come to view being referred to as “Mr. Biles” not as a diminishment of his own identity but as a sign of respect. He noted that the recognition speaks volumes about his own character, stating, “You see who my wife is. It says a lot about me as well… my confidence, and who I am as a person that she chose to be with me.”
Owens emphasised that in the realm of professional sports, a person’s significant other can reflect their own standing and confidence. “It’s respect, because as a man in this field, one of the things they judge you on is who is your significant other. That says a lot about your confidence,” he explained.
Furthermore, Owens expressed how he has adjusted to his newfound fame. He remarked on the extraordinary experiences he has had, stating it “still feels crazy” to him at times. The player shared anecdotes about meeting high-profile individuals, including Hollywood star Tom Cruise. Owens was astounded to discover that the actor not only recognised him but was also excited to see him. “I never would’ve thought as a sophomore in high school that this is what my life would be,” he reflected.
Owens and Biles have frequently been in the public eye together, including attending notable events like the wedding of pop superstar Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce. As they embark on this journey together, Owens appears to be forging a path that balances his identity as a professional athlete with the responsibilities and privileges of being married to one of the world’s top athletes.
As the couple navigates this new chapter of their lives, they continue to support each other. Owens acknowledged that Biles has played a crucial role in helping him process the realities of their public life. “My wife [has helped me] get to a point of just understanding they’re going to talk, either way it goes,” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to living authentically despite outside opinions.
Through the ups and downs that come with fame, Jonathan Owens remains optimistic about their future together. He cherishes the experiences that have come with his relationship and aims to focus on the joy of living out his dreams alongside Biles, the most decorated gymnast in Olympic history. As they both redefine their worlds in the spotlight, they are proving that love can flourish even amidst the challenges that public life brings.