Tom Holland Opens Up About His Memorable 'Umbrella' Moment: Here's What He Had to Say

Tom Holland. Gregory Pace/Shutterstock

During a Lip Sync Battle in July 2017, Tom Holland performed Rihanna’s hit song ‘Umbrella’ and shared in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter published on June 14th that he’s proud of the performance. He explained how it was an amazing time for him, as his life was changing before his eyes with the release of Spider-Man: No Way Home. Holland was getting offers and turning them down for the first time, meeting producers and directors, and even traveling to L.A. by himself. He was finally at a stage where he could bring his friends along and they were welcomed.

Holland's attire for the performance was a black romper, fishnet stockings, and a black bob wig. As he danced in the rain, the actor displayed daring choreography that included grinding with his then-competitor and now-girlfriend, Zendaya. Despite the media attention his provocative costume received, Holland clarified that it wasn't intended as a commentary on toxic masculinity.

"I grew up in an environment that was free from toxic masculinity, and it wasn't until later that I realized how progressive that was," the British actor shared. "I used to wear fishnets and dance in the rain without a care in the world, but I wouldn't do something like that now because I don't see the point in doing a TV show that isn't necessary. Instead, I prefer to spend my time playing golf and enjoying my private life." Holland went on to explain how he has carefully curated his career, only taking on projects that he believes in, and despite the success of his movies, it's his appearance on Lip Sync Battle that garners the most praise.

In February 2021, Zendaya, who was 26 at the time, expressed her admiration for Holland's performance, stating that he had clearly nailed it. During an interview with Esquire, the Euphoria star reminisced about Holland's impressive acting skills. In the meantime, Zendaya herself had sung songs such as "24k Magic" by Bruno Mars and "Tyrone" by Erykah Badu.

Holland and the Dune actress have been making headlines for their adorable romance, in addition to their famous lip sync battle. The two first met while working on Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2016, and despite rumors of a relationship, they didn't confirm their status until July 2021, when they were spotted showing affection in Holland's car. According to an insider, the couple is a perfect match due to their kind and selfless personalities, creativity, and close relationships with their families.

The couple has been discreet about their romantic relationship during interviews, but Holland recently shared an endearing update on their status while promoting his new series, The Crowded Room. In a playful manner, the actor joked about needing his partners to fall in love with him for the relationship to work, which he achieves by making movies with them. He referred to his current relationship with Zendaya, with whom he has starred in three Spider-Man films.

Holland expressed his contentment with being in a committed relationship, stating that he feels fulfilled and does not require any external substances to enhance his happiness. Meanwhile, Zendaya paid a sweet tribute to her partner on his birthday by sharing a photo of him swimming in the ocean with a heart emoji overlay.