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They really tried. After about three years of dating, country singer Kelsea Ballerini and actor Chase Stokes have called it quits. Their relationship, which was public enough to captivate fans and media alike, ended recently, sources tell PEOPLE. It seems both are saying this wasn’t for lack of effort they “gave it their all,” but it ultimately didn’t work out.
The breakup came just days after Stokes posted a heartfelt birthday tribute to Ballerini. With emotions still fresh, fans were left surprised by how suddenly things ended.
Why the Kelsea Ballerini & Chase Stokes split grabbed attention
They first sparked romance rumors in January 2023, when Chase Stokes shared a picture with Ballerini at a college football game. By April that year, they had made their relationship official at the CMT Awards.
Over time, they became open about how hard it is to balance demanding careers with maintaining a romantic relationship. Stokes, in a 2024 interview, said he made sure they never went more than three weeks without seeing each other, despite distance. Ballerini, meanwhile, has spoken about her past, emotional baggage, and how her album Patterns reflects both the challenges and beauty of falling in love again.
What made the split especially striking: the timing. Just days before the news broke, Chase Stokes had posted an Instagram tribute for Ballerini’s 32nd birthday loving words, shared moments. That kind of public gesture tends to indicate everything is good, which is why many fans felt blindsided.
From what sources say, the decision was mutual and respectful. They tried to make it work, but sometimes love and life don’t align the way we hope.
This breakup is bittersweet. For Ballerini, whose recent work has been steeped in reflection past relationships, therapy, growing pains it may mark a turning point in both her art and her life. For Chase Stokes, it’s a moment of transition.
Fans will no doubt watch what comes next: new music, new roles, new inspiration. Whatever the next chapter holds, both have shown that they’re capable of love that’s earnest and open. And sometimes, simply walking away with gratitude is part of growth.
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