Ariana Madix has come a long way from the heartbreak of Scandoval. As she returns to host Love Island USA Season 8 in 2026, fans are once again curious: who is Ariana Madix dating? The answer is the same handsome, supportive man she fell for back in 2023 — personal trainer and fitness coach Daniel Wai. Here is a complete breakdown of their romance, who Daniel Wai is, and where things stand between them today.
Who Is Ariana Madix Dating in 2026?
Ariana Madix is dating Daniel Wai, a New York City-based personal trainer, fitness coach, and entrepreneur. The couple began their relationship in spring 2023 and have remained together for more than three years as of June 2026. Their romance started shortly after Madix’s highly publicized split from her longtime partner, and they quickly became one of reality television’s most talked-about couples.
Despite living on opposite coasts—Madix in Los Angeles and Wai in New York—the pair have successfully maintained a strong long-distance relationship. They are frequently seen supporting each other’s careers, traveling together, and attending major entertainment events.
Most recently, Ariana and Daniel made a public appearance at Vulture’s Reality Masterminds Celebration on May 7, 2026. Madix was recognized as one of reality TV’s most influential figures, and Wai accompanied her to the star-studded event, highlighting the couple’s continued support for one another. Their relationship remains strong, with fans closely following their journey and future plans.
Who Is Daniel Wai? 5 Things to Know
He Is a New York City-Based Personal Trainer and Fitness Coach
Daniel Wai is a well-established personal trainer and fitness coach based in New York City. He has built a significant social media following of over 108,000 Instagram followers and is known for his expertise in health and wellness.
He Co-Owns a NYC Bar Called Little More
Beyond fitness, Wai is also a businessman. In 2024, he co-founded and opened Little More, a bar in New York City, further expanding his entrepreneurial portfolio.
He Met Ariana at a Wedding in Mexico
The couple’s love story began in March 2023 when they crossed paths at a mutual friend’s wedding in Mexico — just days after the Scandoval drama broke. Their public debut came the following month when they were spotted kissing at Coachella in April 2023, setting the internet ablaze.
He Is Ariana’s Biggest Cheerleader
Daniel has been a consistent presence at Ariana’s career milestones. He attended her Broadway debut in Chicago, arriving backstage with a bouquet to celebrate. He was also by her side during her Dancing With the Stars run, where she finished third in Season 32. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Wai called her “so amazing” and said “to me you are the champ, the people’s champ.”
He Made Their Red Carpet Debut in March 2025
Despite being together for nearly two years, the couple made their official red carpet debut at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards on March 17, 2025, in Hollywood. They were all smiles and sweet PDA, with Madix stunning in a gold minidress and Wai dressed in a sleek green-gray suit.
Ariana Madix and Daniel Wai’s Relationship Timeline
March 2023 — They Meet at a Wedding in Mexico
The two were introduced through mutual friends at a destination wedding in Mexico, just 10 days after the Scandoval story broke. Despite the timing, the connection was instant.
April 2023 — Coachella PDA Goes Viral
Photos of Ariana and Daniel kissing at Coachella confirmed what fans suspected: she had moved on, and she had done so with a very attractive man. Sources told People magazine that she was happy and that he “treats her well.”
Early 2024 — Going Instagram Official
In early 2024, the pair began sharing photos together on social media, signaling that their relationship had grown into something serious. Daniel also made a few appearances on Vanderpump Rules Season 11.
December 2023 — Supporting Her on Dancing With the Stars
Wai cheered Ariana on throughout her run on DWTS Season 32, where she finished in third place alongside professional partner Pasha Pashkov. His public appreciation post for her went viral.
January 2024 — Broadway Debut Support
Daniel attended Ariana’s Broadway debut in Chicago, greeting her backstage with flowers. The sweet gesture only solidified his reputation as the ultimate supportive partner.
New Year’s Eve 2024–2025 — Ringing in the New Year in Lisbon
Ariana and Daniel welcomed 2025 with a romantic New Year’s kiss in the Bairro Alto neighborhood of Lisbon, Portugal, which she shared to her Instagram Stories with the caption “happy new year!”
March 2025 — Official Red Carpet Debut
After nearly two years of dating, the couple finally stepped out together officially at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards. Ariana told E! News on the red carpet that she believed Daniel was “The One,” adding, “I think when you know, you know.”
May 2025 — Ariana Says She Wants to Spend Her Life With Him
In an appearance on the Access Hollywood podcast “Housewives Nightcap,” Madix opened up about her feelings, saying she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Wai and described herself as “so lucky” to be with him.
February 2026 — Turks & Caicos Getaway and Engagement Rumors
Ariana and Daniel were photographed on a romantic beach getaway to Turks & Caicos, sparking engagement speculation after she was spotted wearing a ring. The pair were seen cozying up at the Villa Paradiso Del Mar resort.
February 26, 2026 — ELLE Actor Awards Party
The couple attended the ELLE Actor Awards party together, looking every inch the glamorous power couple and continuing their streak of high-profile appearances.
May 7, 2026 — Vulture’s Reality Masterminds Celebration
Their most recent public outing saw them step out together at Vulture’s Reality Masterminds Celebration, where Madix was celebrated as one of reality TV’s most influential stars.
Are Ariana Madix and Daniel Wai Engaged?
As of June 2026, Ariana Madix and Daniel Wai are not officially engaged, despite ongoing speculation from fans and media outlets. The couple, who began dating in 2023, have built a strong and stable relationship over the past three years and continue to share a close bond.
Ariana has been open about how much Daniel means to her. During a January 2026 red carpet appearance, she revealed that they had traveled extensively together and had never experienced a serious fight, describing travel as one of the best tests of a relationship. Her comments reinforced the idea that their connection is built on trust, communication, and mutual support.
The pair currently maintain a long-distance relationship, with Ariana based in Los Angeles and Daniel living in New York City. While that arrangement has delayed major milestones such as moving in together, Ariana has publicly said she wants to spend the rest of her life with him. For now, the couple appears happy, committed, and focused on their future together.
Why Did Ariana Madix Break Up With Tom Sandoval?
Before Daniel, Ariana was in a nine-year relationship with Vanderpump Rules co-star Tom Sandoval. In March 2023, she discovered that Sandoval had been having an affair with her close friend and fellow cast member Rachel Leviss. The scandal, quickly dubbed “Scandoval” by the internet, became one of the biggest reality TV controversies in Bravo history. Ariana’s strength and grace in the aftermath turned her into a fan favorite and cultural icon. She filed for separation, and just weeks later, her love story with Daniel Wai began.
What Is Ariana Madix Up to in 2026?
Ariana Madix continues to be one of the busiest and most successful personalities in entertainment in 2026. Best known for her time on Vanderpump Rules, she has successfully expanded her career beyond reality television and is currently hosting Love Island USA Season 8 on Peacock. Her work as host has earned praise from viewers and helped establish her as a rising television personality.
In addition to hosting duties, Ariana has expressed interest in pursuing more acting and presenting opportunities. She has already appeared in television projects such as Will Trent and St. Denis Medical, while also stepping into the world of live entertainment by co-hosting a special segment of The Voice alongside Dylan Efron.
Outside of television, Ariana remains active in the business world. She is the co-founder of Something About Her, the popular Los Angeles sandwich shop she launched with longtime friend and former co-star Katie Maloney. With successful ventures in television, acting, and business, Ariana’s career continues to reach new heights in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Ariana Madix dating in 2026?
Ariana Madix is dating Daniel Wai, a New York City-based personal trainer and fitness coach. They have been together since spring 2023.
When did Ariana Madix and Daniel Wai start dating?
They met at a mutual friend’s wedding in Mexico in March 2023 and went public at Coachella in April 2023.
Are Ariana Madix and Daniel Wai engaged?
As of June 2026, they are not officially engaged, though Ariana has expressed a desire to spend her life with him.
Who is Daniel Wai?
Daniel Wai is a personal trainer, fitness coach, and co-owner of the Little More bar in New York City. He has over 108,000 Instagram followers.
Did Ariana Madix and Daniel Wai move in together?
Not yet. The couple maintains a long-distance relationship — Ariana lives in Los Angeles and Daniel is based in New York City. Ariana has said they are waiting for the right time.
What happened between Ariana Madix and Tom Sandoval?
Ariana discovered in March 2023 that her long-term boyfriend Tom Sandoval had been cheating on her with their mutual friend Rachel Leviss, in a scandal known as Scandoval. She ended the relationship shortly after.
Is Ariana Madix still hosting Love Island USA?
Yes. Ariana Madix is hosting Love Island USA Season 8 on Peacock in 2026.
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