Kelsea Ballerini and Chase Stokes are starting 2026 with a fresh spark—and fans can’t stop talking about it. The country music star and the Outer Banks actor appear to have rekindled their romance after calling it quits in September, ending months of speculation about their relationship status.
The couple seemingly confirmed their reunion on New Year’s Eve through heartfelt social media posts that hinted at love, growth, and second chances. Stokes, 33, shared a carousel of intimate photos with Ballerini on Instagram, writing, “This year taught me not to take the most precious things for granted… It’s about accountability and learning from our missteps. Embrace love and say it often. 2026 is my year for growth and truth.”
Ballerini, 30, echoed his sentiment with a reflective update of her own. “It’s been a rollercoaster year for matters of the heart, for public perception, and for how things spiraled beyond our control,” she wrote on her Instagram Stories. “But here’s what I want to share about my personal life: I’m a true believer in love. I believe in it, I believe in him, and I believe in breaking cycles.” She ended her message playfully, urging followers, “Now go kiss your special someone and quit the speculation.”
The pair first met in 2022 when Ballerini famously slid into Stokes’ DMs. They made their red carpet debut at the 2023 CMT Awards, quickly becoming one of country music’s favorite cross-genre couples. After three years together, the duo reportedly split last fall to focus on personal growth—but judging by their affectionate posts, the flame has officially been reignited.
Earlier in December, Ballerini reminded fans she was keeping her private life off-limits, saying, “If it doesn’t come directly from me, it’s not my truth.” But her latest posts tell their own story: two people choosing reconciliation over rumors.
On the career front, Ballerini recently released her six-track EP Mount Pleasant, following her acclaimed 2024 album Patterns. Stokes continues to ride the success of Outer Banks, with new projects on the horizon.
As the new year unfolds, it looks like love—and maybe a little country music magic—is back in the air for Ballerini and Stokes.
