Vanessa Kirby, the acclaimed British actress known for her captivating performances in The Crown, Mission: Impossible, and Pieces of a Woman, has long been a subject of fascination for fans and media alike.
While her professional achievements, including a BAFTA Award and an Academy Award nomination, have kept her in the spotlight, her personal life has often remained shrouded in privacy.
Among the most intriguing aspects of her personal life is her relationship with Paul Rabil, a former professional lacrosse player and co-founder of the Premier Lacrosse League.
As of 2025, the couple is not married, but their bond, marked by mutual respect and shared milestones, has sparked widespread curiosity.
This article delves into their relationship, exploring who Paul Rabil is, how their romance began, and the dynamics that make their partnership unique.
Who Is Paul Rabil?
Paul Rabil, born in December 1985 in Maryland, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in professional lacrosse. Often dubbed “The LeBron of Lacrosse,” Rabil’s athletic career is storied.
He played lacrosse at Watkins Mill High School and DeMatha Catholic High School before excelling at Johns Hopkins University, where he majored in political science with a minor in entrepreneurship and management.
His professional career in Major League Lacrosse (MLL) solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the sport. In 2019, Rabil co-founded the Premier Lacrosse League, a professional league aimed at elevating the sport’s visibility and accessibility.
His career was chronicled in the 2022 documentary Fate of a Sport, which details his journey and impact on lacrosse.
Rabil retired from playing in 2021, stating, “After 23 years of playing this beautiful game, I’ve decided to retire. I finally learned that it was never about the outcome.” Since retiring, he has focused on promoting lacrosse through his league and other ventures.
Before his relationship with Kirby, Rabil was married to fellow lacrosse player Kelly Berger from 2014 to 2017 and briefly dated actress Eiza González. His background in sports and entrepreneurship contrasts with Kirby’s world of acting, yet their shared drive and passion have seemingly forged a strong connection.
The Beginnings of Their Romance
Vanessa Kirby and Paul Rabil’s relationship first came to public attention in October 2022, when they were spotted walking together in New York City, as reported by The Daily Mail.
The couple kept their romance private for over a year, a testament to their preference for discretion in an industry often marked by intense media scrutiny.
In November 2023, Rabil made their relationship Instagram official with a heartfelt post, sharing a carousel of photos and writing, “From the very minute we first met in Des Moines, around the world and back, life is far better, more purposeful and more beautiful with you ❤️.”
This post offered a rare glimpse into their bond, hinting at a deep emotional connection that began in an unexpected place.
While the details of their first meeting in Des Moines remain private, their relationship has since been marked by quiet but meaningful moments shared on social media.
In April 2025, Kirby posted photos from a vacation at a Four Seasons resort in the West Indies, captioning them, “What a beautiful time away to stop for a second to appreciate the people you most love.”
The inclusion of Rabil in these photos underscored their closeness, even as they avoided high-profile public appearances together.
Unlike many celebrity couples, Kirby and Rabil have not walked red carpets as a pair, a choice that reflects their desire to keep their relationship out of the Hollywood spotlight.
A Growing Family and Rumored Engagement
In May 2025, Kirby revealed she was expecting her first child with Rabil during a photocall for The Fantastic Four: First Steps in Mexico.
Wearing a shimmering green gown, she subtly showcased her baby bump, sparking excitement among fans. Rabil later shared the news on Instagram, writing, “Some news…life’s greatest adventure is beginning soon.
We’re very grateful for your love and support. Especially the advice. Mum’s a superhero. I’m just really lucky.” The announcement highlighted their joy and anticipation as they prepared for parenthood, with Kirby due in December 2025.
Rumors of an engagement surfaced in December 2024, when Page Six reported that the couple had gotten engaged after two years together. However, Kirby and Rabil have not officially confirmed these reports, maintaining their characteristic privacy.
The speculation was fueled by their growing commitment, evident in their shared milestones and mutual support.
Kirby’s role as Sue Storm in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, where she plays a pregnant character, has also drawn parallels to her real-life journey, with the actress noting in interviews that the role helped her prepare for motherhood.
Balancing Fame and Privacy
Kirby’s career has been a whirlwind of high-profile projects, from portraying Princess Margaret in The Crown to starring in action blockbusters like Mission: Impossible and Hobbs & Shaw.
Her performance in Pieces of a Woman earned her the Volpi Cup for Best Actress and an Oscar nomination, cementing her status as one of Britain’s brightest talents.
Yet, despite her fame, Kirby has consistently prioritized her personal life’s privacy. Her relationship with Rabil, a figure outside the entertainment industry, offers her a grounding influence.
Rabil’s own accomplishments in sports and business suggest a partner who understands the demands of a high-profile career, allowing them to support each other’s ambitions.
Before Rabil, Kirby was linked to actors Christian Cooke (2009–2011), Douglas Booth (2012–2013), and Callum Turner (2015–2020).
Rumors of a romance with Mission: Impossible co-star Tom Cruise in 2018 were firmly denied by Kirby, who called the speculation “disconcerting” and unfounded.
Her relationship with Rabil stands out for its longevity and stability, with the couple navigating major life changes together, from their engagement rumors to impending parenthood.
A Partnership Rooted in Authenticity
What makes Kirby and Rabil’s relationship compelling is its authenticity. Both have spoken sparingly but warmly about their bond, emphasizing mutual respect and shared values.
Kirby’s focus on her craft and Rabil’s dedication to his sport and entrepreneurial ventures suggest a partnership built on understanding and encouragement.
Their decision to keep their relationship low-key, despite their respective public profiles, reflects a commitment to protecting their personal lives from external pressures.
As Kirby prepares for her next chapter—both as a mother and as a leading actress in films like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and The Fantastic Four: First Steps—Rabil remains a steadfast presence.
Their story, though private, resonates with fans who admire their ability to balance love, career, and impending parenthood.
While the question of “Vanessa Kirby’s husband” may not yet have a definitive answer, her partnership with Paul Rabil is a testament to a love story that thrives away from the spotlight, grounded in genuine connection and shared dreams.