Throughout history, there have been many famous figures who have practiced polyamory, including:
1. Queen Elizabeth I of England
Queen Elizabeth I of England reigned from 1558 to 1603: Her reign is known as the Elizabethan era, a golden age for England in terms of exploration, literature, and the arts. Some historians believe it is possible based on her close relationships with certain women, such as Bess of Hardwick and Amy Robsart.
2. Leonardo Da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci: The Italian polymath is believed to have had relationships with both men and women. Leonardo da Vinci, the Renaissance polymath, has sparked discussions regarding his personal life, particularly his sexuality, due to historical records and societal norms of his time.
Leonardo’s relationships exists, highlighted by an acquittal in a sodomy charge and his close associations with young men like Salai and Francesco Melzi, who are suggested by some to have been his lovers. Despite the absence of explicit evidence of romantic relationships with women and the secretive nature of personal lives in the Renaissance, Leonardo’s lack of marriage or known female partners adds to the intrigue.
- Voltaire: The French philosopher and writer advocated for free love and had relationships with multiple women.
- Alan Cumming, Grant Shaffer, and Saffron Burrows: Actor Alan Cumming and his husband, illustrator Grant Shaffer, have been in a throuple with actress Saffron Burrows. They have openly discussed their unconventional relationship dynamics in interviews.
- Arielle Scarcella, Danielle Owens-Reid, and Chantel Houston: YouTube personalities Arielle Scarcella, Danielle Owens-Reid, and Chantel Houston formed a throuple and have shared insights into their relationship on their respective channels.
- Bella Thorne, Mod Sun, and Tana Mongeau: Actress Bella Thorne, musician Mod Sun, and YouTuber Tana Mongeau were involved in a high-profile throuple that garnered media attention for its openness about their polyamorous relationship.
- Cameron Esposito, Rhea Butcher, and Brandy Howard: Comedians Cameron Esposito and Rhea Butcher have been open about their relationship with writer Brandy Howard. They have discussed their experiences as a throuple in their comedy and podcast appearances.
- Shane Burcaw, Hannah Aylward, and Hannah’s sister: Author Shane Burcaw and his fiancée, Hannah Aylward, have been in a throuple with Hannah’s sister. They have shared their journey on social media and through their writing, promoting understanding and acceptance of non-traditional relationships.
Fictional portrayals of throuple relationships can also be found in several media:
- “Jules et Jim” (1962 film): This French New Wave classic depicts a complex love triangle between three friends.
- “Sense8” (2015-2018 Netflix series): This sci-fi drama features a group of eight individuals who are telepathically linked and share romantic and emotional connections.
- “Vida” (2018-2020 Starz series): This dramedy follows two sisters who navigate grief, family dynamics, and romantic entanglements, including a polyamorous relationship.