Kelsea Ballerini recently revealed a heartwarming story about her boyfriend, Outer Banks star Chase Stokes, during her Oct. 30 appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Although their love story famously began with a DM, Ballerini’s admiration for Stokes actually started years earlier during a chance encounter on a plane.
Witnessing Stokes’ Kindness on a Plane
In 2021, Ballerini had an early-morning flight where she witnessed Stokes’ kindness firsthand. She recalled seeing a young fan approach the actor, fangirling with excitement. Despite the early hour, Stokes was gracious and attentive, taking the time to talk with the fan warmly and thoughtfully.
“I turned around… and it was Chase,” Ballerini shared. “We were obviously in very different phases of life… but I just tucked that away as like, wow, what a good thing to witness.”
This impression of Stokes as a “good, good man” stuck with her, and years later, it was the initial spark when she slid into his DMs—a bold move that ultimately led to their relationship.
On Her “Deal” About Outer Banks
Ballerini also addressed a recent headline about her decision not to watch Stokes’ Netflix hit Outer Banks. The country star explained that her limited TV time usually centers around her “true crime girly” obsession. However, she clarified that it’s not about lacking support.
When they first got together, Stokes suggested it might be best for Ballerini to get to know him outside of his Outer Banks role, “human to human,” rather than through his onscreen character John B. Ballerini added that she’s even visited him on set, so she’s definitely aware of the Outer Banks buzz.
As Ballerini’s fifth album Patterns makes waves and Stokes prepares for Outer Banks Season 4, which premieres Nov. 7, the two are navigating the mix of stardom and love with a unique blend of sincerity and humor.
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