Blink-182’s Travis Barker Reveals the Text That Ended His 15-Year Friendship with Kourtney Kardashian

Key points

• Barker and Kardashian were friends for 15 years before their relationship began in 2021.
• Barker stated he had given up on the possibility of a romantic relationship with Kardashian.
• Kardashian sent a text referencing dating advice Barker had given to a mutual friend, asking him to help her 'find her bearings.'
• Barker checked his phone four times to confirm the message, fearing he might 'mess this up.'
• The couple went official in 2021, married in 2022, and welcomed their first child, Rocky Thirteen, in 2023.

Background

Barker and Kardashian’s relationship has been a subject of public interest since they began dating in 2021. Recently, Barker underwent surgery for a pinched nerve in his elbow to protect his drumming career, an event that highlighted the couple's ongoing support for one another. Their relationship began after Barker moved to Calabasas, California, where he became friendly with the Kardashian family after initially befriending Kim Kardashian in the early 2000s.

How outlets are covering it

Both Billboard and Thought Catalog report on Barker’s interview with The Times, focusing on the specific text message that shifted their dynamic from friends to a romantic relationship. Billboard emphasizes Barker’s initial disbelief and fear of ruining the friendship, while Thought Catalog highlights the specific phrasing of the text, which referenced dating advice Barker had given to a mutual friend. Both outlets agree that the 15-year friendship was a prerequisite to their romance, and both note Barker’s working-class background as a factor in his initial comfort with the relationship.

Why it matters

This story provides insight into the personal lives of high-profile celebrities and the often-unexpected nature of romantic relationships. It also highlights the impact of social media and public scrutiny on celebrity relationships, as Barker and Kardashian’s relationship has been closely followed by the public since they went official in 2021.

What to watch

Barker is expected to recover from his nerve surgery within a few weeks. The couple is likely to continue their public appearances and support each other’s careers, with Barker focusing on his music and Kardashian on her business ventures.