Chase Stokes is setting boundaries with fans after online speculation about his relationship with Kelsea Ballerini spiraled into negativity. The Outer Banks actor took to TikTok comments to defend his ex — and possibly current — girlfriend after fans began bringing up his past with Outer Banks co-star Madelyn Cline.
Stokes Defends Ballerini Amid TikTok Controversy
The drama unfolded after Ballerini, 32, posted a TikTok video on November 17 promoting her new EP Mount Pleasant, released three days earlier. The country star was seen singing along to her track “People Pleaser” in a red dress and bold lip look — but the comments section quickly turned into a forum for fans referencing Stokes and his former partner.
Stokes, 33, stepped in to call out the behavior, writing:
“These comments are f—ing weird. Grow up.”
The Outer Banks actor’s reaction came after fans began tagging Cline, 27, and posting old photos of the former couple in the comments. Others speculated that one of Ballerini’s new songs, “Emerald City,” takes subtle aim at Cline, with lyrics describing jealousy toward another woman who “got around” and is “pretty.”
One fan even accused the singer of “calling Madelyn a red flag,” prompting Stokes’ blunt response.
The History Behind the Speculation
Ballerini and Stokes’ relationship timeline has been closely followed since they began dating in 2022. The two reportedly split in September 2025 after nearly three years together — but have since sparked reconciliation rumors.
Earlier this month, on November 7, the pair were spotted holding hands in Dubrovnik, Croatia, where Outer Banks is currently filming. A source told PEOPLE that the two looked “happy and close,” adding, “They walked hand in hand toward Old Town. They looked very cute.”
Though the couple has not officially confirmed their status, their recent public appearance and online interactions have fueled speculation that they may be rekindling their romance.
Ballerini’s Music Sparks Fan Theories
Ballerini’s Mount Pleasant EP — which includes six deeply personal songs — has reignited fan theories about her breakup and past relationships. The singer has previously used her music to reflect on emotional transitions, and many listeners believe her new lyrics reference Stokes and his history with Cline.
However, Stokes’ comment on her TikTok suggests he’s frustrated with the constant comparisons. One user noted that he was reacting to “OBX fans posting nonsense,” claiming that the actor asked them privately to stop before speaking out publicly.
“OBX fans were posting nonsense and Chase called them out so they deleted it,” one commenter wrote.
Relationship Recap and Ongoing Rumors
The couple’s first split in September was reportedly amicable. At the time, a source told PEOPLE,
“They’re two adults who gave it their all and tried to do everything they could to make it work, but ultimately couldn’t. It happens.”
Since then, both stars have handled public attention with a mix of humor and candor. Shortly after their breakup, Ballerini posted a TikTok responding to “speculators, sources, and hidden cameras,” singing along to Ariana Grande’s “Shut Up” while asking followers to “let us be, please.”
Still, with their recent reunion in Europe and mutual support on social media, fans can’t help but wonder if the two are giving love another chance.
A Message for the Fans
While Outer Banks followers continue to speculate about Stokes’ romantic life, his latest comments make it clear that he’s done entertaining invasive chatter. By publicly calling out the fan behavior, he’s signaling a desire to keep things respectful — both for himself and for Ballerini.
Whether or not the couple is officially back together, one thing is clear: Chase Stokes has no patience for negativity directed toward someone he clearly still cares about.
What do you think of Chase’s response to fans? Share your thoughts in the comments on InvestRecords.com.
