Zooey Deschanel, known for her quirky charm and distinctive voice, has navigated a public romantic life that has evolved alongside her career. From early artistic connections to two marriages and a recent engagement, her relationships have often captured public interest, revealing a journey marked by shared passions and family building.
Her first significant public relationship was with actor and musician Jason Schwartzman. They reportedly began dating around 2003 when Deschanel was 19, though some reports suggest their initial connection was even earlier. Their relationship was largely kept private, reflecting their shared artistic sensibilities. The couple dated for approximately two years before splitting in 2005.
Following her relationship with Schwartzman, Deschanel was briefly linked to Mickey Madden of Maroon 5, though details of this rumored romance are scarce and largely unconfirmed. She then found love with Death Cab for Cutie frontman Ben Gibbard. The couple began dating in 2008 and became engaged later that year, a whirlwind romance that surprised many fans. They married on September 19, 2009, in a private ceremony near Seattle, Washington.
Deschanel and Gibbard's marriage lasted just over two years. They announced their separation in November 2011, citing irreconcilable differences. Deschanel officially filed for divorce in December 2011, and their divorce was finalized in 2012. Despite their split, both maintained a respectful silence regarding the specifics of their breakup.
In mid-2014, Deschanel began dating film producer Jacob Pechenik. Their relationship quickly progressed, and they made their red carpet debut as a couple at the Primetime Emmy Awards in August 2014. The couple announced their engagement in January 2015.
Deschanel and Pechenik married in a private ceremony shortly after their engagement. They welcomed their first child, daughter Elsie Otter Pechenik, in July 2015. Two years later, their family grew with the arrival of their son, Charlie Wolf Pechenik, born in May 2017. Deschanel also reportedly converted to Judaism for Pechenik during their marriage.
After four years of marriage and two children, Deschanel and Pechenik announced their separation in September 2019. In a joint statement, they shared, > "After much discussion and a long period of contemplation we have decided we are better off as friends, business partners and co-parents rather than life partners. We remain committed to our business, our values and most of all our children. Thank you for respecting our privacy at this time." Their divorce was finalized in June 2020.
Shortly after announcing her separation from Pechenik, Deschanel's new relationship with "Property Brothers" star Jonathan Scott became public. They met in August 2019 while filming an episode of James Corden's "Carpool Karaoke: The Series," alongside their respective siblings. Their immediate chemistry was evident, and they quickly became a couple.
Their relationship blossomed rapidly, with public appearances and social media posts confirming their romance. Scott openly expressed his deep affection for Deschanel, often sharing sweet tributes. The COVID-19 pandemic, which began shortly after they started dating, reportedly strengthened their bond as they spent significant time together.
In December 2020, the couple announced they had purchased their "forever home" together, a significant step in their relationship. Scott involved Deschanel's children, Elsie and Charlie, in his proposal to Deschanel, which took place in August 2023 at Edinburgh Castle in Scotland. Deschanel shared the news on Instagram, showcasing her engagement ring and confirming their intent to marry. The couple continues to share their life publicly, often featuring their blended family and home renovation projects, showcasing a strong and loving partnership.