The whirlwind romance between Outer Banks star Chase Stokes and country singer Kelsea Ballerini has apparently come to a definitive end—again. Just weeks after reconciling from their September split, Chase took to Instagram Stories on November 20 with cryptic messages that left fans heartbroken and confused.
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Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini: Instagram Posts That Broke Hearts
Chase didn’t hold back when he shared emotional messages on his Instagram Stories, writing: “Don’t believe the media. I’m blocked, I did nothing wrong.” Alongside a red heart emoji, he added, “Sorry. I tried.”
In a follow-up post, the 33-year-old actor addressed their supporters directly: “I’m sorry for those who believed in us. It is what it is. Onwards and upwards.”
While Chase didn’t mention Kelsea by name, the timing and context make it clear he’s referencing their tumultuous relationship. The most telling detail? Neither Chase nor Kelsea, 32, currently follow each other on Instagram—a modern breakup confirmation if there ever was one.
Timeline of Their On-Again, Off-Again Romance
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 2023 | Dating rumors spark after football game appearance |
| February 2023 | Chase officially confirms relationship on Today Show |
| May 2024 | Couple attends Met Gala together |
| September 2025 | Initial breakup confirmed by Kelsea’s rep |
| November 7, 2025 | Spotted holding hands in Dubrovnik, Croatia |
| November 10, 2025 | Sources confirm reconciliation |
| November 19, 2025 | Chase notably absent from CMA Awards |
| November 20, 2025 | Chase posts cryptic breakup messages |
What Went Wrong This Time?
According to recent reports, the relationship became “rocky and toxic” and ultimately was “too much” for Ballerini. Sources indicate that jealousy and trust issues plagued the couple, making their brief reconciliation unsustainable.
The breakup came shortly after Kelsea attended the 2025 CMA Awards solo on November 19, where she performed “I Sit in Parks” from her newly released EP Mount Pleasant. Notably, the six-song record features tracks that seemingly reference their relationship struggles, including “587”—a song about the 587-mile distance between her Tennessee home and his South Carolina filming location.
The Original September Split
When they first broke up in September after nearly three years together, a representative explained that communication issues and conflicting schedules had taken their toll. Sources revealed they “had been arguing a lot recently” and that “their communication wasn’t great in the last month”.
Despite these challenges, the couple attempted to rekindle their romance after Kelsea visited Chase on the set of Outer Banks’ final season in Croatia. They were photographed dancing in the streets of Dubrovnik and holding hands at dinner—images that sparked hope among fans for a lasting reunion.
How It All Started
Their love story began in December 2022 when Kelsea famously slid into Chase’s DMs at 1:30 a.m. She later revealed on the Call Her Daddy podcast: “I’ve never seen his show, but I just knew of him, and I just swan dove right on in.”
Their first meeting in January 2023 was equally romantic. Chase drove up in his Bronco and, as Kelsea recalled, “grabbed my face and kissed me and said, ‘Thank God you’re real.'”
Throughout their relationship, Chase was a constant presence at country music award shows and supported Kelsea on tour. Just days before their initial September breakup, he posted a birthday tribute calling her his “love” and expressing excitement about their future together.
The Music Behind the Heartbreak
Kelsea’s new EP Mount Pleasant, released November 14, appears to chronicle their relationship struggles. Beyond “587,” the track “Emerald City” has sparked speculation about jealousy issues, with lyrics referencing brown eyes—potentially a nod to Chase’s ex-girlfriend and Outer Banks co-star Madelyn Cline.
According to E! News, Chase addressed critics on social media who were creating drama around Kelsea’s new music, showing he remained protective of her even amid their personal struggles.
What’s Next for the Former Couple?
While sources suggest there’s still a possibility of reconciliation, Chase’s decisive Instagram posts seem to indicate he’s ready to move forward. The phrase “onwards and upwards” suggests finality rather than hope for another reunion.
For fans who invested in their love story—from that first DM to red carpet appearances at the Grammys and Met Gala—this latest split feels particularly painful. Whether this breakup truly sticks remains to be seen, but for now, both stars appear to be focusing on their respective careers: Chase wrapping Outer Banks and Kelsea promoting her new music.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini break up for good?
A: Chase Stokes posted cryptic Instagram Stories on November 20, 2025, confirming their second breakup. The couple originally split in September 2025, briefly reconciled in early November after being spotted together in Croatia, but ended things again just weeks later. Chase revealed he’s been “blocked” and wrote “I’m sorry for those who believed in us,” suggesting this breakup is final.
Q: Why did Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini break up?
A: According to sources, the couple’s relationship became increasingly strained due to jealousy, trust issues, and poor communication. They struggled with demanding travel schedules—Chase filming Outer Banks while Kelsea toured—which created distance and frequent arguments. Sources indicate the dynamic became “rocky and toxic,” with Kelsea still figuring out what she wants after her 2022 divorce from Morgan Evans. Their conflicting lifestyles and inability to align ultimately led to their split.
