Barry Keoghan Addresses Cheating Rumors and Social Media Hiatus
Barry Keoghan has publicly addressed the rumors of infidelity that circulated during his relationship with singer Sabrina Carpenter, explaining that the false narrative led him to withdraw from public life. The actor detailed his decision to step back from social media and public appearances during an appearance on the “Friends Keep Secrets” podcast on April 28, 2026.
The Origin of the Rumors
Keoghan explained that the rumors began with a video posted online by an individual who later retracted the claim, apologizing for fabricating the story. However, the initial accusation gained traction, leading to significant online negativity directed towards the actor. “A girl made a video…and then made another saying sorry for making that up,” Keoghan stated, as reported by USA Today. He expressed frustration that the retraction received less attention than the original accusation.
Withdrawal from Public Life
In response to the online backlash, Keoghan deactivated his social media accounts and significantly reduced his public appearances. “I came off Instagram and social profiles. I’ve stopped going to events. I’ve stopped just socializing,” he said, according to USA Today. He described this period as a deliberate attempt to distance himself from the negativity and the false narrative surrounding his personal life.
Respect for Privacy and Relationships
Keoghan emphasized his reluctance to discuss past relationships publicly, stating that it is unfair to involve former partners in speculation. “Even if it is those people that I was in a relationship with, it’s not their place to come forward and speak on my behalf ‘cause it’s unfair to them,” he explained, as reported by USA Today. He believes both individuals in a relationship deserve privacy and should not be pressured to comment on speculation.
Addressing the Negativity
Keoghan also expressed his frustration with the broader tendency to amplify negativity surrounding celebrity relationships. He asked that people “stop assuming and to stop jumping on this narrative and attacking me and dragging me down in any way. Just absolutely disgusting, vile,” according to E! Online. While acknowledging he doesn’t expect universal approval, he requested that speculation be tempered with respect.
Relationship Timeline
Keoghan and Carpenter reportedly began dating in late 2023 and their relationship lasted approximately one year before reports of a split surfaced in December 2024, USA Today reported. Carpenter has not publicly commented on the rumors.