Source Reveals The Exact Moment Zendaya Fell For Tom Holland

Tom Holland‘s unforgettable performance of Rihanna‘s “Umbrella” may have done more than break the internet. According to a new report, it also played a major role in winning over his future wife, Zendaya. A source claimed the actress was completely captivated after watching Holland’s now-iconic 2017 appearance on “Lip Sync Battle,” where the actor stunned audiences by performing in fishnet tights, black shorts, and a corset-inspired outfit while dancing through a rain-soaked rendition of the hit song.

The performance has remained one of the most talked-about celebrity television moments in recent memory, but according to a source cited by the Daily Mail, it held special significance for Zendaya. “It’s not just sexy, but it shows how amazingly talented he is,” the source said. “It takes a lot of confidence for a straight guy to pull off drag.”

During the performance, Zendaya could be seen reacting from the audience, appearing visibly shocked as Holland fully committed to the elaborate routine. “When he was announced as Spider–Man, people were taken aback because he’s slightly wimpy,” the source continued. “But what he lacks in stature he more than makes up for in talent.”

The insider went on to suggest that the performance left a lasting impression on the actress. “You can see the shock on her face but then the admiration,” the source added. “I’m sure it’s something they will show their kids one day.”

Holland’s ‘Umbrella’ Performance Became An Instant Viral Sensation

Holland first delivered his now-legendary rendition of Rihanna’s “Umbrella” during an episode of “Lip Sync Battle” that aired in May 2017. What started as a fun television appearance quickly became a pop culture phenomenon.

After opening with a performance of Gene Kelly’s “Singin’ in the Rain,” Holland surprised the audience by emerging in fishnet tights, black shorts, and a corset-style top before launching into Rihanna’s hit song beneath a shower of artificial rain.

The performance immediately went viral and remains one of the most-viewed clips in “Lip Sync Battle” history. Across YouTube, social media platforms, and reposted clips, the routine has amassed hundreds of millions of views over the years, with fans continuing to share and celebrate it nearly a decade later.

Romance Rumors Began Shortly After ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’

Not long after Holland’s viral “Lip Sync Battle” performance, reports began circulating that the actor and Zendaya had taken their off-screen chemistry beyond the set of “Spider-Man: Homecoming.” In July 2017, a source told PEOPLE that the pair had quietly started dating while filming the Marvel blockbuster.

“They started seeing each other while they were filming Spider-Man,” the insider said. “They’ve been super careful to keep it private and out of the public eye but they’ve gone on vacations with each other and try and spend as much time as possible with one another.”

Another source suggested the relationship worked so well because of the similarities between the two stars. “They’re both really ambitious and they challenge each other, but, most importantly, they make each other crack up,” the insider explained. “They seem to have a really similar sense of humor and love joking around together. They have great banter back and forth.”

Tom Holland Recently Confirmed He And Zendaya Are Married

The report comes shortly after Holland appeared to confirm months of speculation that he and Zendaya had quietly tied the knot.

During a recent interview with Esquire, the actor was asked about AI-generated wedding images that circulated online. “No, because they were all there,” Holland replied when asked whether he had to explain the photos to family members, before adding, “That’s all you’ll get on that.”

The actor also spoke candidly about his relationship with Zendaya. “She’s my best friend, and I’m the happiest I have ever been when I’m with her,” Holland said. “But I have also never felt so supported and safe, ever. Period.”

The Couple’s Romance Began During Their ‘Spider-Man’ Days

Holland and Zendaya first sparked romance rumors in 2017 while filming “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” though they kept their relationship largely private for several years. The pair eventually confirmed their romance in 2021 and have since become one of Hollywood’s most beloved couples.

Marriage rumors intensified earlier this year when Zendaya was spotted wearing a simple gold band instead of her engagement ring during a public outing. Shortly afterward, her longtime stylist, Law Roach, appeared to confirm the speculation. “The wedding has already happened,” Roach said during an interview at the SAG Awards. “You missed it. It’s very true.”

While the newlyweds continue to keep most details of their relationship private, fans now have a new piece of lore to add to their love story: according to one insider, it all started with a pair of fishnets, a Rihanna song, and a performance no one has forgotten.