Outer Banks actor Chase Stokes has publicly confirmed his renewed romance with country-pop star Kelsea Ballerini, marking the latest chapter in their nearly three-year, on-and-off relationship. The 33-year-old shared the news alongside a series of intimate sunset photos in a reflective New Year's Eve social media post.
A New Year's Resolution for Love
In his caption, Stokes reflected on the past year, writing that a key lesson was not to take for granted life's 'most beautiful things.' He made a vow for the future, stating his intention to 'take accountability, learn from mistakes. Lean into love and say it often.' The actor declared 2026 as his 'year of growth' and 'year of truth,' concluding the post with a red heart emoji.
The photos showed tender moments between the pair, including one of Stokes hugging Ballerini from behind and kissing her head, and another of them leaning close together against a stunning backdrop. Ballerini, 32, also featured in the carousel, sharing a sweet snap with her dog.
Ballerini's 'Messy Year' and Belief in Love
Shortly after Stokes's reveal, Kelsea Ballerini took to her own social media to echo the sentiment. She described having a 'messy year for the heart' but affirmed her faith in their relationship. 'I really love love,' she wrote. 'I believe in it, I believe in him, and I believe in breaking patterns.'
She accompanied her words with a silhouette photo of the couple appearing to kiss at sunset, ending her message with a plea to fans: 'Now go kiss your person and stop speculating.'
A Rocky Road to Reconciliation
This reconciliation follows a turbulent period for the couple. They first met in late 2022 and went public in early 2023. After two years together, they experienced their first breakup in September 2024, reconciled, and then split again in November.
Their November separation was highlighted when Ballerini attended the Country Music Association Awards alone, in what was dubbed a 'revenge dress' moment. At the time, sources suggested Stokes's jealousy was a factor, and Ballerini's friends reportedly hoped the split would allow her to 'find someone who is right for her.'
However, a source told the Daily Mail in late December that, despite 'zero labels,' the pair were trying again, with their desire to be together 'heightened around the holidays.' This aligns with their coordinated New Year's Eve announcements, confirming they are giving their romance another chance.
Ballerini was previously married to Australian singer Morgan Evans, finalising her divorce from him in November 2022 before beginning her relationship with Stokes.
