Dan and Phil Reveal 15-Year Relationship, Seek Privacy and Respect

British YouTube stars Dan Howell and Phil Lester have confirmed they have been in a romantic relationship for the past 15 years. The announcement was made during a YouTube video uploaded on October 13, 2025, marking a significant moment for the influential duo who have been creating content together since the mid-2000s. The revelation comes after both influencers publicly came out as gay in 2019.

The pair, known for their engaging videos and comedic chemistry, shared that they first met online in 2009. They decided to keep their relationship private for several reasons. In the video, Howell explained that he grew up in an “extremely homophobic” environment, which made it challenging to come out. Both creators expressed concerns that disclosing their relationship could overshadow their careers, especially during the height of their fame.

“In my mid-twenties, I felt that we had to hide the relationship, because I was still hiding who I was to my friends, family, myself,” Howell stated. He emphasized the difference between their public personas as a comedy duo and their private lives as partners.

Lester echoed these sentiments, calling the announcement “a big scary deal” and likening it to a “mini coming-out.”

Commitment to Fans and Future Projects

With the truth now out in the open, Howell and Lester expressed a renewed commitment to their fanbase. They announced plans to launch a long-awaited podcast, aiming to create content that resonates with their audience.

“What we want to do is create content to make you laugh,” they said, highlighting their dedication to entertaining their viewers.

Despite the excitement surrounding their relationship, the duo has requested privacy moving forward. They laid out new “rules” for their fans, emphasizing the importance of boundaries.

“I want to leave the house without being spied on,” Lester remarked, while Howell humorously added, “I just want to eat my pasta in peace!”

Responses from fans have varied, with many expressing joy over the revelation, while others were humorously confused, believing the pair had been openly dating for years.

Context and Industry Impact

The announcement follows a wave of relationship disclosures within the YouTube community, including Markiplier’s recent marriage to long-term girlfriend Amy Nelson. Such revelations demonstrate the evolving nature of public figures navigating personal lives in the digital age.

As Howell and Lester embark on this new chapter, their request for understanding reflects a broader conversation about privacy and respect in the influencer landscape.