Joshua Bassett has released a new song titled “The Golden Years,” which has fans speculating that the lyrics may be about his ex-girlfriend Olivia Rodrigo. In the song, Bassett sings about the passage of time and the ups and downs of a past relationship. Fans pointed out that the numbers on Bassett’s shirt correspond to Rodrigo’s age when she wrote her song “Driver’s License” and her current age, adding to the speculation that the song may be about her.
Some fans on social media joked about the potential inspiration for the song, with many referencing Rodrigo and her music. Bassett posted a second clip of the song along with photos from his time filming the Disney+ series High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. The pictures included Rodrigo and other cast members, leading some fans to believe that the song may be about their time working together on the show.
While Bassett and Rodrigo never confirmed their relationship, they sparked speculation after being cast as leads in HSMTMTS and writing music together for their characters. Rodrigo has previously spoken about how working with Bassett felt natural and emotional, leading fans to believe that their creative partnership was particularly special. After Rodrigo’s album Sour was released, fans suspected that the songs were about her relationship and breakup with Bassett.
Speculation about a potential love triangle involving Bassett, Rodrigo, and Sabrina Carpenter emerged, but Bassett addressed the rumors in a 2021 interview, urging fans to focus on the art the women were creating rather than their relationships with him. While Rodrigo and Bassett experienced a period of distance after “Driver’s License” was released, they reunited at the premiere of HSMTMTS season 3. Since their breakup, Rodrigo has moved on with other relationships, while Carpenter is currently dating actor Barry Keoghan.
Overall, Joshua Bassett’s new song “The Golden Years” has stirred up speculation among fans about whether the lyrics are inspired by his past relationship with Olivia Rodrigo. The couple’s on-screen chemistry in HSMTMTS and their creative collaborations have added to the intrigue surrounding the song. Despite never officially confirming their relationship, Bassett and Rodrigo shared a special bond that fans continue to speculate about through their music and public appearances.
