Looking back at her early years in Hollywood, American singer, songwriter, and actor Demi Lovato is opening up about how maturity, fame and hindsight have reshaped the way she views her past relationships including one with a notable age difference that she now says “Wasn’t okay.”
During a candid appearance on This Is Keke Palmer podcast hosted by Keke Palmer.
Keke Palmer is an American Emmy Award-winning actress, singer, author, and television host.
The 33 year old singer reflected on stepping into the entertainment industry at a young age.
Without directly naming anyone, Lovato appeared to reference her former relationship with Wilmer Valderrama, whom she dated on and off for six years beginning shortly after her 18th birthday.
At the time, the actor was 30, a 12 year age gap that has since sparked debate among fans.
As the two women discussed navigating adulthood while still teenagers in the spotlight, Lovato recalled questioning her own past.
“Why was my boyfriend 30?” she remarked, before adding that when she herself turned 30, her perspective shifted. “That’s not okay,” she said, emphasizing how hindsight can bring clarity to experiences that once felt normal.
The conversation also touched on how young performers often find themselves surrounded by older peers due to the nature of the industry.
Palmer reflected on her own teenage relationships, noting how it seemed natural at the time because of the adult environments they were working in.
Lovato agreed, adding that being labeled “Mature for your age” can blur boundaries even further.
Fans have long speculated that her 2022 track 29 addressed that chapter of her life. The lyrics reference age differences and consent, themes that sparked widespread discussion upon release.
Though Lovato did not mention Valderrama by name during the podcast, the timing and context fueled renewed conversation online.
The former couple first met in 2010 and publicly confirmed their split in 2016, stating they were better off as friends. In the years since, Lovato has been open about personal growth, recovery, and redefining love on her own terms.
Today, she is happily married to musician Jordan “Jutes” Lutes and preparing to hit the road for her upcoming It’s Not That Deep tour.
As she continues to evolve both personally and professionally, Lovato’s latest reflections signal not bitterness but perspective, healing and the power of looking back with wiser eyes.
