Proposing in marriage is typically depicted as a magical, fairy tale event, but it can also turn out to be quite challenging and complex to execute. Frequently, these moments require collaboration, with family and friends lending a hand to the one planning the proposal. This was exactly the situation when cast members of Top Gun: Maverick assisted co-star Jay Ellis during his proposal, albeit not always in a helpful manner through advice.
In a recent interview on the show “Today,” Ellis shared the tale of proposing to his actress-model wife Nina Senicar. Using the word “horrible” might be an overstatement, but he found it challenging to find the perfect moment and location for the proposal. An initial attempt on New Year’s Eve in Bali was abandoned when both fell ill. Ellis had another idea, but his “Maverick” co-star Monica Barbaro dissuaded him from going through with it. Ellis admitted:
As a movie enthusiast, let me tell you about my less-than-ideal experience. I was utterly smitten, and we were taking a dreamy vacation in Bali. The ring was always with me, hidden away in my backpack as we explored the island together. I didn’t know when the perfect moment would strike, so I kept waiting.
In the heat of the moment, I decided to propose while scuba diving underwater. Now, this might sound familiar, but let me set the scene: at that time, I was busy filming ‘Top Gun.’ During a break in between takes, I shared my grand plan with my castmates and Monica Barbaro. They were not convinced, saying it was the most absurd idea they’d ever heard. They pointed out that the first thing couples usually do when getting engaged is exchange kisses – which seemed like a challenge underwater!
They were right; I should have listened to their advice. The moment came and went, leaving me with a story that might make for a good movie scene but not one I’ll soon forget.
A proposal beneath the water’s surface certainly stands out and leaves a lasting impression. It’s understandable that Jay Ellis might have considered it, but Monica Barbaro makes a valid point. Additionally, if Senicar isn’t prepared for the proposal, she could react by gasping or screaming – something that could cause issues underwater.
After abandoning the idea of proposing underwater, Ellis found himself brainstorming a fresh approach. Lacking other options, he eventually suggested an unexpected (albeit unremarkable) method for popping the question. However, the recipient made it clear that she wouldn’t accept a ring unless the circumstances were more favorable. He elaborated:
The following day, we found ourselves in a coffee shop, where I was busy responding to some emails regarding work matters. She expressed her surprise, saying she had expected our trip to be free of work obligations, wanting just to spend time together. In my backpack, I produced the ring and asked if this was what she desired, only for her to react strongly, stating that she didn’t want a proposal in such circumstances. Consequently, I returned the ring to my bag, and surprisingly, we had an amazing day together.
It’s typical for proposals to catch people off guard, but many women can sense them coming. While it’s unclear if Nina Senicar knew Ellis had a ring or not, it seems she wasn’t entirely taken aback by the sight of it in the coffee shop. She was even open to turning down the proposal and waiting for something more suitable to come along instead.
Something more wonderful transpired. On the following day, Ellis and Senicar found themselves on a beach side by side, a scene that Ellis had longed for during his time on the set of Top Gun: Maverick. The setting was thoughtfully recommended by another cast member of Maverick, Miles Teller. At this picturesque location, the perfect moment arrived, and it was then that Ellis decided to propose. As he himself put it:
In a state of anxious excitement, I found myself resembling a person who panics and freaks out. As she glanced away towards the setting sun, I delved into my bag, retrieved an item, and called out to her. ‘Can we repeat this moment? Will you marry me?’ And with those words, the moment was sealed.
As someone who, like you, experienced the thrill of figuring out the perfect moment to pop the question during a vacation – in my case, at Walt Disney World – I share your delight in this heartwarming tale. It’s wonderful to see that everything went smoothly for the star of ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. Just as Ellis is eagerly anticipating the possibility of ‘Top Gun 3’, I believe if it does happen, he should express his gratitude to his fellow stars who supported him along the way.
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2025-06-11 19:07