Shailene Woodley, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like Divergent and the series Big Little Lies, has recently opened up about her past relationship with NFL star Aaron Rodgers, revealing the emotional turmoil that accompanied their engagement and subsequent breakup.
In a heartfelt interview with Outside magazine published on December 3, 2024, Woodley shared her feelings about her time with Rodgers, stating, “I haven’t shared much about my relationship with Aaron because it always makes me cry.” This candid admission highlights the depth of her emotional connection to the relationship, which she described as both “not right” and “beautiful.”
The couple’s romance, which garnered significant media attention, began in early 2021. However, their engagement was short-lived, with the two calling it off in February 2022, just over a year after they publicly announced their relationship. Their on-again, off-again dynamic culminated in a final breakup in April 2022.
Reflecting on her personal struggles during this tumultuous period, Woodley alluded to a “really awful, traumatic thing” that occurred in early 2022, leading her to experience a six-month battle with depression. She candidly expressed, “I felt like I lost my soul, my self, my happiness, my joy. I really understood depression and anxiety and, like, complete soul detachment.”
Woodley revealed that she remained in a “toxic situation” during this time, feeling compelled to empathize with others while neglecting her own emotional well-being. Thankfully, her best friend, stylist Kris Zero, provided crucial support during what Woodley described as the “lowest low of my life.”
In addition to her personal struggles, Woodley has been actively pursuing her career, recently making her Broadway debut in the play Cult of Love. Her commitment to activism, particularly in environmental conservation, has also been recognized; she was named Outsider of the Year by Outside magazine for her efforts with organizations like Conservation International and her work on the PBS docu-series Hope in the Water.
Following their breakup, Rodgers expressed gratitude towards Woodley in a February 2022 Instagram post, thanking her for allowing him to be part of her life and for showing him what unconditional love truly means. He wrote, “Thanks for always having my back, for the incredible kindness you show me and everyone you meet, and for showing me what unconditional love looks like. I love you and am grateful for you.” This public acknowledgment of their bond underscores the complexity of their relationship.
Despite the challenges she faced during their relationship, Woodley has continued to focus on her career and personal growth. In a previous interview, she discussed the difficulties of filming her latest drama series Three Women while navigating her emotional struggles, particularly during the harsh winter months in New York.
As Woodley continues to move forward in her career and personal life, her willingness to share her experiences serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health and self-care, particularly in the face of adversity. Her journey resonates with many who have faced similar challenges, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.
Woodley’s story is a testament to the fact that even amidst heartbreak and personal struggles, there is always an opportunity for growth, healing, and new beginnings.
