Sam Smith confirms engagement to Christian Cowan and says new album was inspired by their love story

Sam Smith has revealed they are engaged to fashion designer Christian Cowan, while opening up about how their relationship inspired their forthcoming fifth studio album, Hazel Eyes.

In an interview with The New York Times, the Grammy-winning singer confirmed the couple's engagement after three years together. Smith also shared that the album's title is a tribute to Cowan's distinctive hazel eyes, describing the record as their most personal work to date.

Smith revealed that the album's opening track, Everlasting Love, began the night before their first date with Cowan. The song eventually evolved into what they described as their first track about "requited love", marking a notable departure from the heartbreak and longing that have defined much of their previous catalogue.

The singer also reflected on keeping their relationship largely out of the public eye, explaining that protecting their private life has allowed their romance to flourish. Although the couple have made occasional public appearances together, including at the 2026 Met Gala in matching looks designed by Cowan, Smith said they prefer to preserve the intimacy of their relationship.

Hazel Eyes is due for release on August 21 and is expected to showcase a more optimistic side of Smith's songwriting, chronicling the journey from falling in love to finding lasting happiness. The engagement announcement adds another personal milestone to what is shaping up to be a significant new era for the singer.