Johnny Manziel, the once-celebrated and often-controversial football star, embarked on a new chapter in his personal life following his separation from Bre Tiesi in March 2019. This new chapter began with Josie Canseco, a model and the daughter of former Major League Baseball player Jose Canseco. Their relationship first emerged in the public eye in April 2024, sparked by a seemingly innocuous photo shared by Canseco on her Instagram. The image depicted her feet resting on the legs of an unidentified man on an airplane. Eagle-eyed fans, however, quickly recognized Manziel’s distinctive hand tattoos, igniting speculation about a burgeoning romance. Later that month, the couple confirmed the rumors, opting for the same platform that initially hinted at their connection. Both Manziel and Canseco shared photos on their Instagram Stories, capturing them in a tender embrace at the Stagecoach music festival in Indio, California. This public declaration marked the official start of their relationship journey.
The early stages of their relationship were characterized by public displays of affection and Canseco’s open admiration for Manziel. In May 2024, she posted a photo on Instagram featuring her dog and a selfie of herself with Manziel, captioning it "A little family :)". This post further solidified their status as a couple and offered a glimpse into their shared life. By July 2024, Canseco’s affection for Manziel had blossomed into full-blown adoration. In an interview with Us Weekly, she openly gushed about her "sweet Texas boy," praising his close relationship with his family and the warm welcome she received when she met them. She described Manziel as caring and attentive, highlighting how he would rub her back and shower her with love after a long day. Canseco’s effusive praise painted a picture of a man who was not only her romantic partner but also a source of comfort and support.
Despite her willingness to express her feelings for Manziel, Canseco remained conscious of maintaining a balance between public and private life. In the same interview, she explained her preference for keeping their relationship largely off social media. While acknowledging she had nothing to hide, she emphasized the importance of nurturing their relationship away from the constant scrutiny of the public eye. This desire for privacy, she believed, would allow them to grow together authentically and become the individuals they aspired to be. This approach reflected a conscious decision to prioritize the health and longevity of their relationship over the allure of constant online validation.
As their relationship progressed, Canseco and Manziel continued to share glimpses into their shared life, albeit selectively. In September 2024, Canseco described their connection as "easy and organic" in an interview with Us Weekly. She referred to Manziel as her "best friend," emphasizing their shared sense of humor and values. Canseco also acknowledged Manziel’s personal growth and expressed her happiness at being a part of his journey. Her words revealed a deep appreciation for his evolution as a person and a belief in their shared potential for further growth, both individually and as a couple.
The couple’s playful side was on full display during Halloween in October 2024. They attended an event in Los Angeles dressed as the beloved characters Carl and Russell from the Disney movie Up. This lighthearted costume choice showcased their shared sense of humor and willingness to embrace fun and playful moments together. The public nature of the event, coupled with their creative costume choice, offered a glimpse into their dynamic and their comfort in expressing their personalities.
The culmination of their year together was marked by a more intimate celebration. In December 2024, Canseco commemorated Manziel’s 32nd birthday with a since-deleted Instagram story video. The video, which captured the couple seemingly nude in a bathtub with Manziel washing Canseco’s hair, was a testament to their intimacy and comfort with each other. Canseco’s caption, "A love like you. My best friend and my forever," expressed the depth of her affection and commitment to Manziel. Her words of praise for the man he had become, coupled with the intimate setting of the video, painted a picture of a couple deeply in love and celebrating a significant milestone in their journey together.
From the initial spark of romance fueled by observant fans to the intimate birthday celebration, Manziel and Canseco’s relationship unfolded throughout 2024. Their journey was marked by public declarations of love, playful moments, and a conscious effort to balance public exposure with private intimacy. While Canseco embraced opportunities to express her affection for Manziel, she also emphasized the importance of nurturing their relationship away from the constant glare of social media. This approach reflected a mature and deliberate effort to build a strong foundation for their future together. Their story, though still unfolding, became a testament to the complexities of modern relationships, the power of personal growth, and the enduring search for love and connection in a world increasingly intertwined with public perception.
