Lana Del Rey, the Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, has reportedly found love in the Louisiana swamps with a local alligator hunter, Jeremy Dufrene. Fans of the 39-year-old "Summertime Sadness" singer are buzzing with speculation after recent sightings of the couple in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
Jeremy Dufrene, a 56-year-old Louisiana native, is an alligator hunter and airboat tour guide known for his adventurous lifestyle in the Bayou des Allemands, often referred to as the "Catfish Capital of the Universe."
Rumors of a romance between Del Rey and Dufrene began to circulate after they were spotted holding hands in public ahead of Del Rey's performance at the Leeds Festival in the UK on August 25. Shortly after, the couple was seen shopping together at the luxury department store Harrods in London and later dining at a local eatery. While neither Del Rey nor Dufrene has confirmed their relationship, their cozy outings have fueled the speculation.
Internet sleuths have uncovered that the pair may have first met in 2019 when Del Rey took one of Dufrene’s famous airboat tours during a visit to Louisiana.
The singer posted about the experience on her social media, writing, "Jeremy lemme be captain at Arthur’s Air Boat Tours x," alongside a photo of her with Dufrene. Since then, they have reportedly kept in touch and rekindled their connection earlier this year when Del Rey was back in Louisiana for the 2024 Hangout Fest.
During that trip, she was seen dancing in the swamps, and a picture of Dufrene kissing an alligator named Brutus was posted.
Dufrene, who enjoys Louisiana-style crab boils and spending time with his children, has kept a relatively low profile despite the recent media attention. His Instagram, now set to private, once showcased his fearless handling of alligators, offering a glimpse into his unique life in the Louisiana wetlands.
The reported romance adds another chapter to Del Rey's diverse dating history, which has included a rapper, a police officer, and now, an alligator tour guide.
Del Rey, who has been exploring different musical genres and collaborations, is set to release her next album, "Lasso," in September. This record marks her first venture into country music. While we haven't heard anything from the new album, the idea of a pop star and an alligator hunter finding love in the bayou certainly has all the elements of a Louisiana love story perfect for writing a song. For now, it seems Del Rey is embracing the treasure she found down in the swamps and living her best life, Cajun style.
Who is Jeremy Dufrene?
Lana Del Rey's new rumored beau is a Louisiana-born alligator hunter and airboat tour guide known for his fearless handling of alligators. Dufrene is the father of two, and he operates Arthur's Air Boat Tours in Des Allemands, Louisiana. The tour business gives visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Louisiana wetlands and get a close-up look at the region’s wildlife, including alligators. Dufrene, who often refers to alligators as “Cajun yard dogs,” has gained a reputation for his unique style of swamp tours that are personalized and offer a one-of-a-kind experience.
Dufrene is known for his love of Louisiana cuisine, particularly crab boils. He also enjoys spending time with his children and sharing his passion for the swamp with tourists. His Instagram page, which is now set to private, previously showcased his adventures in the bayou and his interactions with alligators.
The Public’s Reaction to Lana Del Rey’s New Boyfriend
Many fans have expressed their disbelief and confusion about Del Rey's reported relationship with Dufrene. Some have even gone so far as to criticize his appearance and question his suitability for the singer.
“The heart wants what the heart wants I guess,” one fan commented, while another added, “That dude looks dirty.”
“Remember this every time you think you don't have a chance, boys,” another fan joked. One more fan commented, “That's her bf or her dad?”
Del Rey herself has remained mum on the backlash surrounding the dating rumors, but she is no stranger to public criticism. In the past, she has been vocal about her experiences with online harassment and the pressure she feels from the media to conform to certain beauty standards.
It is important to remember that people should be free to date whomever they choose, regardless of their occupation or appearance. And while Del Rey's reported relationship with Dufrene may seem unexpected, it is important to respect their choice to be together. It is also important to recognize that people should not be subjected to criticism or judgment based on their looks or their choices in partners.
What’s Next for Lana Del Rey?
Lana Del Rey has been enjoying a successful career, and it seems that her love life has been just as exciting. The release of her upcoming album, “Lasso,” is sure to be a major event for fans, and her relationship with Dufrene is sure to continue to fuel the rumors and speculation. We'll just have to wait and see what the future holds for the singer and her rumored new beau, the alligator hunter.
A Swampy Love Story
The idea of a pop star and an alligator hunter finding love in the Louisiana bayou certainly has all the elements of a Louisiana love story perfect for writing a song. From the romantic imagery of a swampy backwater to the unique and sometimes surprising personalities of those who call it home, the Louisiana bayou is a place that inspires passion and intrigue.
For now, it seems Del Rey is embracing the treasure she found down in the swamps and living her best life, Cajun style.
