Additional Coverage:
- Kelsea Ballerini, Chase Stokes commit to ‘breaking patterns’ in rekindled romance after ‘messy’ year (foxnews.com)
Kelsea Ballerini and Chase Stokes Kick Off 2026 with Rekindled Romance
Nashville, TN – Country music star Kelsea Ballerini and actor Chase Stokes are ringing in the new year with a fresh start, confirming their rekindled romance on New Year’s Eve after a brief separation. The couple, who previously dated for nearly three years before splitting in September, shared heartfelt messages and a sweet kiss on social media, signaling a renewed commitment to each other.
Ballerini, 32, took to Instagram to reflect on what she called “the most glittery, stress rash inducing year I’ve ever experienced” in a carousel of images. While Stokes, 33, was absent from many of the photos, a picture of the two locking lips left no doubt about their current status.
“Messy year for the heart, messy year for the outside coming in, messy year for the way it became an out of our hands portrayal of it,” Ballerini wrote, addressing the public’s interest in her personal life. She then added, “But what I’ll say, and all I really care to share indefinitely with my personal life anymore, is that I really love love.
I believe in it, I believe in him, and I believe in breaking patterns. Now go kiss your person and stop speculating.”
Stokes, known for his role in “Outer Banks,” mirrored Ballerini’s sentiments with his own message of growth and accountability for 2026. “Something I’ve learned this year: don’t take advantage of the most beautiful things that in 33 years of life are fleeting,” he posted.
“Take accountability, learn from mistakes. Lean into love and say it often. 2026 my year of growth, my year of truth.
Starting here, starting now. Happy new years.”
He also jokingly shared on his stories, “Crashed out so hard I shaved my head (again.) Time to be funny on social media now.”
The couple’s initial split in September was confirmed by Ballerini’s representative, with a source close to them telling People magazine, “They’re two adults who gave it their all and tried to do everything they could to make it work, but ultimately couldn’t. It happens.”
Ballerini was previously married to Morgan Evans for nearly five years before their divorce in 2022. Now, it appears she and Stokes are ready to write a new chapter together, starting with a loving toast to the future.