Key Takeaways
- Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini have confirmed they are back together after a brief split
- The couple had previously been together for nearly three years before announcing their split in September 2025
- Stokes and Ballerini had sparked rumors of a reconciliation with cryptic social media posts in late November
- The pair have encouraged fans to "go kiss your person and stop speculating" about their relationship
- Stokes and Ballerini have expressed their commitment to each other and their belief in the power of love
Introduction to the Reconciliation
Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini have put the rumors to rest and confirmed that they are back together. After a "messy year for the heart," as Ballerini described it on her Instagram story, the couple has rekindled their romance. The news was announced on December 31, 2025, with a pair of posts from the couple, featuring a romantic sunset shot of the two together. Stokes declared 2026 a "year of growth" and "truth," and reflected on the importance of taking accountability and learning from mistakes. He also emphasized the need to "lean into love and say it often," suggesting that the couple is committed to making their relationship a priority.
The Couple’s History
Ballerini and Stokes were first linked in January 2023, after they started messaging on social media. They made their red carpet debut at the CMT Music Awards in April 2023, and quickly became one of the most talked-about couples in the entertainment industry. Ballerini had previously joked that the pair "can’t break up" because of their matching tattoos, which she revealed on an appearance on the "Call Her Daddy" podcast in November 2023. However, after nearly three years together, the couple confirmed their split in September 2025, leaving fans wondering what had gone wrong.
The Split and Reconciliation
In the months following their split, Stokes and Ballerini sparked rumors of a reconciliation with a series of cryptic social media posts. In late November, Stokes shared a series of posts suggesting that Ballerini had blocked him, writing "Don’t believe the media" and "I’m blocked, I did nothing wrong." He also added a red heart emoji, sparking speculation about the status of their relationship. However, it appears that the couple has now put their differences aside and is giving their relationship another try. Ballerini has encouraged fans to "go kiss your person and stop speculating" about their relationship, and has expressed her commitment to Stokes and her belief in the power of love.
A New Chapter for the Couple
As Stokes and Ballerini embark on this new chapter in their relationship, they seem to be approaching it with a renewed sense of commitment and appreciation for each other. Stokes’ post declaring 2026 a "year of growth" and "truth" suggests that the couple is dedicated to learning from their mistakes and growing together. Ballerini’s statement that she "really loves love" and believes in "breaking patterns" also suggests that she is committed to making their relationship work. With their matching tattoos and public declarations of love, it’s clear that Stokes and Ballerini are all in on their relationship and are willing to work through any challenges that come their way.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
As the news of Stokes and Ballerini’s reconciliation spreads, fans are no doubt thrilled to see the couple back together. With their combined talent, charm, and dedication to each other, it’s likely that Stokes and Ballerini will continue to be one of the most beloved and talked-about couples in the entertainment industry. As they embark on this new chapter in their relationship, they seem to be approaching it with a sense of hope, optimism, and commitment to each other. With their love and devotion to each other, it’s likely that Stokes and Ballerini will continue to inspire and delight fans for years to come. USA TODAY has reached out to Stokes’ and Ballerini’s reps for comment, but for now, it seems that the couple is happy to let their social media posts speak for themselves.
