Why did Nina Dobrev and Shaun White break up? All you need to know

2025 Toronto International Film Festival - "Eternity" Premiere - Source: Getty
2025 Toronto International Film Festival - "Eternity" Premiere - Source: Getty

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White’s unexpected breakup has sparked a wave of reactions across social media and the press. Confirmed on September 11 by PEOPLE, the news came alongside insights from a source close to the couple, who shed light on what may have led to their split.

The insider stated that the breakup was agreed-upon and,

mutual decision, and wasn’t an easy one, but it was made with love and a deep respect for one another.

Since this report was made public, another purported insider, claiming to be close to the situation, has refuted the initial claims. Rather, they assert that Nina Dobrev was focused on starting a family, and reportedly, that wasn’t in the cards for Shaun.

"She is devastated. There was one reason: She wanted a family and wanted to get married — and he didn't."

As per PEOPLE, several other points of contact with links to the two stars shared the same assessment, while others insist the take is blown out of proportion.

Following their separation, it is being reported that Nina Dobrev has left the United States and is being “supported by family” at this trying time.


Nina Dobrev and Shaun White split - Cheating allegations, more

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White were together for more than five years before deciding to end their engagement. While cheating rumors had circulated in the past—particularly after Nina’s TikTok post sparked a social media frenzy—an insider told Us Weekly that speculation about infidelity was largely exaggerated.

“Nina is devastated. They had finally started planning the wedding and things were in motion. There was no cheating at all during the course of their five-and-a-half-year relationship. They were very loyal to each other. Any online speculation that suggests otherwise is ridiculous.”

In the TikTok video in question, Nina Dobrev lip-synced to an audio that seemed to aim directly at White, her ex-partner.

"Listen, Bob the Builder, he's got 10 other women trying to fix him too, and you all look like a damn construction crew."

White proposed to Nina Dobrev in October 2024 in New York City. Rumblings about a potential split began when Dobrev was spotted at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7 without her engagement ring. Neither party has made a public comment about the split as of this report.


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Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal