Chase Stokes: Embracing the Role as Kelsea Ballerini's Adoring Boyfriend

Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini. Matt Baron/BEI/Shutterstock

Chase Stokes, the 30-year-old star of Outer Banks, expressed his acceptance of the term "golden retriever boyfriend" given to him by his girlfriend Kelsea Ballerini's fans. He mentioned in an interview with Entertainment Tonight on Monday, June 19, that he is comfortable with the nickname as it aligns with his dog, Milo, who is a mix of golden retriever and German Shepherd. The term "golden retriever boyfriend" generally refers to someone who is characterized as goofy, charming, loyal, high energy, and lovable to all.

Stokes expressed admiration for Ballerini and her ongoing Heartfirst tour. He described her as an incredibly talented individual and the best human being on Earth. Stokes mentioned receiving videos from Ballerini's performance in Santa Barbara and expressed delight in witnessing her musical prowess and radiance in recent times.

Stokes and the 29-year-old "Doin' My Best" singer initially sparked dating speculation in January when they were seen together at the College Football Playoff National Championship held in Los Angeles. Following their public appearance, Ballerini, who recently ended her marriage with Morgan Evans in August 2022, shared that she had reached out to Stokes with the support and encouragement of her manager.

"I reached out to him through direct messages," the singer of the song "This Feeling" disclosed during an episode of "Call Her Daddy" at the time. "He films [Outer Banks] in Charleston, and my manager resides there. ... He suggested, 'You know who's really attractive, like, when you're ready? Chase.' I responded, 'You're absolutely right.'"

Ballerini added: "His username on Instagram is 'hichasestokes' and I simply said, 'Hi Chase Stokes.' ... I have my life together and for me to open up to anyone is a special gesture. I desire to be with someone who shares the same sentiments about their life. ... I am someone who values relationships."

According to an insider in March, Ballerini was not seeking a serious relationship after her divorce. However, the source mentioned that she genuinely enjoys Chase's company as he is fun and carefree, which is something she needs. As a result, there is a significant chance that they may pursue an exclusive dating arrangement in the future.

The Valiant One star joined Ballerini at the CMTs, where she cohosted with Kane Brown. Sharing photos from the ceremony on Instagram, the "Blindsided" artist wrote about the special moment in her career. Additionally, in May, the "I Quit Drinking" singer invited Stokes on stage during her last performance with Kenny Chesney to commemorate the occasion.

“It is the second to last city of this tour. Bring it on home, John B,” Ballerini joked on stage, referring to Stoke’s character on the Netflix show.