James Hetfield Proposed To Girlfriend Underwater — What Did She Say?
James Hetfield has added a new milestone to his personal life, announcing his engagement to girlfriend Adriana Gillett with a proposal that was as dramatic as it was romantic.
The Metallica frontman chose an unconventional setting for the big question, proposing while the couple were scuba diving underwater. During the dive, Hetfield revealed a handwritten sign that read, “Adriana Gillett, will you marry me?”
The moment was later shared with fans on social media. Hetfield posted a photo of the couple underwater, simply captioning it, “She said yes!”
Gillett shared the same image on her Instagram account and elaborated on the memorable moment. “The BEST birthday trip surprise,” she wrote. “Swimming with whale sharks on Friday the 13th with the most unique, special, and romantic proposal a Pisces could ever imagine. In a sea full of fish, we caught each other. Thank you God for putting us together.”
A New Chapter for Hetfield
The engagement marks a significant personal development for Hetfield, whose life over the past few years has included both major professional achievements and personal changes. The musician was previously married to costume designer Francesca Tomasi from 1997 until their divorce in 2022.
Gillett, who was born in London, studied at the University of Oxford before beginning her career in journalism. She previously worked as a reporter for The Times before transitioning into the fashion industry, where she has spent several years working as a designer.
The couple reportedly began dating in 2023. Their relationship initially attracted attention because of their 16-year age difference, but they have largely kept their romance private, occasionally sharing glimpses of their lives together.
Love and Metallica’s Busy Road Ahead
While Hetfield is currently enjoying the excitement of his engagement, his schedule with Metallica will soon bring him back to the global stage. The band’s next concert is set for May 9 in Greece, kicking off another stretch of performances across Europe.
After the European run, Metallica will return to North America later this year for a highly anticipated residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas, a venue known for its cutting-edge visual technology and immersive concert experiences.
For Hetfield, the coming months promise to blend both personal celebration and professional momentum. As Metallica continues its decades-long dominance of the rock and metal world, the singer now steps into this next chapter of life with a new fiancée by his side—adding a personal high note to an already remarkable career.
