The couple has been spotted together several times in New York City, with their most recent sighting occurring at a local event. PEOPLE magazine reports that Witherspoon and Haarmann were seen holding hands, fueling speculation that their friendship has evolved into a romantic connection. The actress, known for her roles in Big Little Lies and Legally Blonde, first sparked relationship rumors with Haarmann in July during a vacation in New York.

A source told PEOPLE that the two are indeed dating, though another insider mentioned that their relationship is casual, and Witherspoon is "taking things slow."

Despite no official statement from Witherspoon, she was photographed leaving a hotel with Haarmann, holding hands as they made their way to a vehicle. Haarmann, an alumnus of Brown University and Harvard, is the founder of Searchlight Capital Partners and a co-owner of the NHL's New York Islanders. Previously married to Mala Gaonkar, with whom he shares two children, Haarmann has kept a relatively low profile until now. Witherspoon, who finalised her divorce from Jim Toth in 2023, has not commented on her dating life publicly.