Chase Stokes turned heads at the 2026 Oscars with a bold fashion choice, just weeks after his split from Kelsea Ballerini. The 33-year-old actor sported a maroon jacket and matching pants as he posed for photos at the prestigious event held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 15. Despite the recent breakup and the ensuing drama involving Ballerini’s ex-husband, Morgan Evans, Stokes appeared in good spirits and exuded confidence on the red carpet.
The drama unfolded earlier this month when Evans, 40, made a rare comment about his divorce from Ballerini, 32, on “The BobbyCast” podcast. He expressed surprise at the end of their marriage, stating, “I just look back and I’m like, ‘Oh, my God.’ Yeah, it was just kind of a whirlwind, life-changing moment.” Evans also felt mischaracterized during their divorce and mentioned feeling like a scapegoat for men who had wronged women during that time.
Stokes didn’t hold back in responding to Evans’ comments, calling his masculinity into question in a since-deleted comment. Ballerini, on the other hand, remained mostly silent on the matter, except for a post that hinted at the ongoing drama.
Ballerini announced their split in August 2022, after nearly five years of marriage with Evans. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she shared the news with her fans, expressing gratitude for the years spent together and hope for the future. Following their breakup, Ballerini found solace in her relationship with Stokes, which began in January 2023. However, the couple recently decided to part ways, marking the end of their on-again, off-again romance.
Despite their breakup, Stokes is reportedly unwilling to give up on their relationship, while Ballerini has accepted the end of their romance and is coping better than before. Meanwhile, Evans has moved on and is now dating fellow country singer Laci Kaye Booth.
As Hollywood’s biggest night came to a close, Stokes’ fashion statement at the Oscars was just one of the many highlights of the star-studded event. The red carpet was filled with glamorous looks and celebrity sightings, making it a memorable evening for all attendees. With the dust settling on their respective personal lives, Stokes, Ballerini, and Evans are all moving forward in their own ways, navigating the ups and downs of love and fame.
