Rosario Dawson and Cory Booker: Navigating Love in the Public Eye
Rosario Dawson and Sen. Cory Booker have officially ended their relationship of over two years, a source close to the New Jersey lawmaker confirms to PEOPLE. Despite their breakup, the former couple maintains a strong friendship. As fans process the news, it’s a good time to reflect on the significant moments of their relationship, their busy careers, and how they managed to balance their personal and professional lives.
The Beginning: A Chance Encounter
Dawson and Booker first met at a political fundraiser for a mutual friend in the summer of 2018. Initially, there weren’t immediate sparks, but the two reconnected months later. Booker recounted to The Washington Post in 2019 how their first meaningful interaction unfolded. They talked for hours, but Booker struggled to ask for Dawson’s phone number. “I had trouble asking for her phone number … I think I said something really stupid like, ‘Uh, how would I get in touch with you?’ And she mercifully said something like, ‘Oh, you want my phone number?’ And my insides were like, ‘Hell, yeah!’”
The Early Days of Romance
Dawson found Booker to be “so charming,” “confident,” and “capable,” despite their relationship’s slow start. She noted that his style wasn’t super-smooth, but his sense of humor, especially his dad jokes, won her over. The couple kept their relationship private initially, confirming they were dating only after Dawson was spotted by TMZ at a Washington, D.C., airport. “So far so wonderful,” she remarked at the time, calling Booker “a wonderful human being.”
Navigating Busy Lives
With Booker being a U.S. senator and former presidential candidate and Dawson an actress and activist, their schedules were hectic. They managed their relationship with weekly meet-ups, FaceTime calls, and romantic gestures. Booker often read to Dawson over the phone and sent her music to maintain their connection.
Moving In Together
In May 2020, Dawson took a significant step by moving into Booker’s Newark, New Jersey home. Booker shared his excitement and adjustment to living with someone for the first time. He described the joy of sharing small, everyday moments, such as sitting at the table for meals and saying grace together. These simple acts enriched their lives, providing a sense of normalcy amid their busy schedules.
Shared Moments During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic allowed the couple to spend more time together. They enjoyed cooking together, with Booker mentioning Dawson’s purchase of a food processor to help them prepare healthy, plant-based meals. These moments in the kitchen brought them closer, highlighting their efforts to build a life together despite external challenges.
Public Support and Milestones
Dawson supported Booker throughout his political career. In January 2021, she accompanied him to President Joe Biden’s Inauguration at the U.S. Capitol. Booker, in turn, showed his support for Dawson by wearing a matching mask from her company, Studio 189. After Booker defended his Senate seat, Dawson expressed her pride and gratitude on Instagram, praising his leadership and representation.
The End of a Chapter
Despite their strong bond, Dawson and Booker decided to part ways but remain good friends. Their relationship, marked by mutual respect and affection, is a testament to their ability to maintain a positive connection even after their romantic involvement ended.
Conclusion
Rosario Dawson and Sen. Cory Booker’s relationship was a blend of public milestones and private moments that showcased their commitment to each other. From their initial meeting at a political fundraiser to moving in together and supporting each other’s careers, their journey was one of love, growth, and shared experiences. As they move forward as friends, their story remains an inspiring example of how two busy individuals can find balance and support in a high-profile relationship.