Metallica's legendary frontman James Hetfield has announced his engagement to Adriana Gillett, his girlfriend of more than two years. The romantic proposal took place during a scuba diving adventure with whale sharks, creating a uniquely memorable moment for the couple.
A Whaleshark Wedding Surprise
On Sunday, Gillett took to Instagram to share the exciting news with her followers. She posted several photographs from the underwater proposal, including one showing the 62-year-old rock star holding up a handwritten note while displaying the engagement ring box alongside his now-fiancée.
The journalist-turned-fashion designer, who is sixteen years younger than Hetfield, described the experience as 'the BEST birthday trip surprise' in her social media caption. She elaborated further, writing: 'Swimming with whale sharks on Friday the 13th with the most unique, special, and romantic proposal a Pisces could ever imagine.'
Social Media Celebration
Throughout her announcement post, Gillett included numerous fitting emojis such as a diamond ring, an aqua blue heart, and symbols of whales and sharks. She poetically added: 'In a sea full of fish, we caught each other. Thank you God for putting us together.'
Although Hetfield does not maintain a personal Instagram account, the official Metallica profile enthusiastically shared the same photograph with the simple caption: 'She said yes!' This official endorsement from the band's account confirmed the significant personal milestone for their lead vocalist and guitarist.
Congratulations from Close Associates
Photographer Lee Jeffries, who has collaborated extensively with Metallica on portraits and tour photography over many years, offered heartfelt congratulations in the comments section of Gillett's post. He wrote: 'Such amazing news! I've witnessed the beautiful connection you share, and it's something truly real… built on depth, understanding, and the experiences of lives already richly lived.'
Jeffries continued: 'Perhaps even shaped by the chapters that came before, which make what you share now feel all the more meaningful. The way you connect with each other is genuinely special. What a way to propose!'
Previous Marriage and Family
Hetfield was previously married to Francesca Hetfield, née Tomasi, from 1997 until their divorce in 2022. The Grammy-winning musician and the costume designer share three adult children: daughters Cali (27), Marcella (24), and son Castor (25).
The couple originally met in 1992 and married five years later. Over their long marriage, Hetfield publicly credited his then-wife with providing crucial support for his sobriety journey and anger management challenges. Following their separation, Francesca expressed her sadness to TMZ, stating: 'After 30 years of ups and downs but always with a lot of love, I am extremely saddened that my marriage has come to this.'
New Beginnings and Professional Commitments
Hetfield began dating London-born Adriana Gillett shortly after his divorce was finalized. Since then, Gillett has frequently shared social media updates about their relationship, including glimpses of their extravagant vacations and personal moments together.
Beyond their upcoming wedding plans, Hetfield remains professionally active with Metallica. The band is preparing to launch the European leg of their M72 World Tour on May 9 in Athens, Greece. Additionally, the heavy metal group has announced a major Las Vegas residency at the Sphere venue.
This sold-out residency is scheduled to begin on October 1 of this year and will continue through March 13, 2027, representing a significant commitment for the legendary rock musicians alongside Hetfield's personal celebrations.
