Diplomatic ‘hard launch’? Trudeau goes public with Katy Perry

WEB DESK: Talk about sealing this year with a hard launch that too diplomatic! Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has formally gone public with his relationship with pop star Katy Perry, and the announcement has sparked a frenzy across social media after the politician chose an unexpected diplomatic moment to do it.

The pair were first linked in July, shortly after Perry’s split from actor Orlando Bloom became public. While the singer hinted at the new romance with a subtle Instagram post in October, both had remained largely quiet about their relationship, until now.

The reveal came after former Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida posted a photo of himself and his wife hosting Trudeau and Perry for lunch during the Canadian leader’s private visit to Japan. In his message, Kishida praised their longstanding friendship and recalled working closely with Trudeau during their time in office, including on the Japan-Canada Action Plan.

Trudeau then reposted the message, adding: “Katy and I were so glad to have the chance to sit down with you and Yuko,” thanking Kishida for his friendship and commitment to global cooperation. His casual reference to Perry as his partner immediately set the internet alight.

Users joked that Trudeau had executed “the wildest hard launch in political history,” while others quipped that Perry had entered her “political spouse era.” Many noted the novelty of debuting a relationship via a meeting with a former head of government.

The diplomatic reveal has quickly turned into one of the most talked-about celebrity moments of the year, with fans expressing equal parts surprise and amusement at the couple’s sudden public debut.

Earlier in October, the couple sort of ‘officially’ confirmed their relationship following a public appearance in Paris celebrating Perry’s birthday. The couple was previously photographed together in July in Montreal and in September on a yacht off California, sparking widespread social media attention. Sources describe their connection as “easy,” noting mutual attraction and respect. Perry, 41, recently split from fiancé Orlando Bloom, while Trudeau, 53, has been divorced for two years. The singer is in Paris for her Lifetimes Tour promoting her latest album, 143, which has seen sold-out shows across North America and Australia.