Another day, another break-up in Hollywood. In case you haven’t noticed, more than a few celebrities have called it quits with their significant others this summer. This, of course, is no coincidence when considering the current astro-weather, specifically the effects of Venus retrograde. However, before we discuss the significance and results of this astrological transit, let’s take a closer look at the essence of harmony-seeking Venus, as well as its overall effects when retrograde.
Also known as the goddess of love and beauty, Venus is the planet of romance, relationships, finances, values and pleasure. (In fact, wherever this charming planet is located in your birth chart can tell you a lot about your love language and seduction style, but I digress.) Venus began its tumultuous retrograde journey through show-stopping Leo on July 22, where it will remain until September 3. On that note, when a planet stations retrograde, it simply slows down. The planet’s energy is also turned inward, making it a reflective and introspective time, as opposed to a time for taking action, and making important decisions. Nevertheless, despite this being an excellent opportunity to revisit, reflect, and re-assess the (planetary themes) situation at hand, we are collectively prone to experience delays, challenges and/or misunderstandings when a planet isn’t working at its fullest potential.
While retrograde in Leo, the planet of love evidently put a spotlight on the realm of celebrity romances… and well, the current events are more than enough proof. Wouldn't you agree? Then again, leave it to cinematic Leo to add a little bit of drama-rama to this Venus retrograde cocktail. Serious question, though: if astrology isn’t real, why did almost 10 of our favorite couples in Hollywood decide to call it quits during Venus retrograde?
1. Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello
After seven years of marriage, the Magic Mike star and Modern Family actress confirmed their separation. “We have made the difficult decision to divorce," the former couple shared in a statement to Page Six. "As two people that love and care for one another very much, we politely ask for respect of our privacy at this time as we navigate this new phase of our lives.”
2. Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez
Thank you, next! Grande and Gomez confirmed their split this past July, after two years of marriage. According to TMZ, the two were struggling in their relationship months before the 30-year-old singer started filming Wicked.
3. Rosalía and Rauw Alejandro
Alejandro and his Motomamí have ended their relationship after three years together. The 30-year-old singer popped the question back in March... but according to People, the former couple agreed to end their engagement despite the love they still have for one another.
4. Sophia Bush and Grant Hughes
Several weeks after celebrating their first-ever anniversary as a married couple, the One Tree Hill star filed for divorce from Grant Hughes after 13 months of marriage.
5. Tina Knowles and Richard Lawson
Beyoncé's mother Tina filed for divorce from actor Richard Lawson after eight years of marriage.
6. Jason Tartick and Kaitlyn Bristowe
On August 6, Bachelorette stars Tartick and Bristowe took to Instagram to announce the end of their engagement. "After sharing the news with family and close friends first, and taking the time to properly process it ourselves, we are saddened with heavy hearts to share that we have decided to end our engagement," they captioned via social media.
6. Bebe Rexha and Keyan Safyari
On July 31, in the middle of a performance in London, Rexha confirmed she and Safyari had broken up after three years of dating.
7. Britney Spears and Sam Asghari
After 14 months of marriage, Asghari and Britney, have ended their relationship. Sources say the Iranian model filed for divorce on August 16.
8. Keke Palmer and Darius Jackson
According to multiple reports, Keke Palmer and her boyfriend Darius Jackson have allegedly ended their relationship after two years of dating. Their son, Leodis “Leo” Andrellton, was born in February 2022.
Venus won't go direct until September 3 so... until then, let's hope for the best!