Nina Dobrev Addresses Zac Efron Romance Rumors, Confirms They Are “Just Mates” After Shaun White Split
Actress Opens Up About New Beginnings Amidst Public Scrutiny
Actress Nina Dobrev has directly addressed persistent rumors linking her romantically to “A Family Affair” star Zac Efron, unequivocally stating that the two are “just mates.” The clarification comes swiftly on the heels of her confirmed separation from Olympic gold medalist Shaun White, ending a five-year relationship.
The speculation reached a peak before Dobrev, 36, was confronted by TMZ reporters at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Wednesday, October 1. When asked about navigating her personal life in the public eye, particularly after her recent breakup with White, Dobrev responded with a philosophical outlook. “You know what? I’m excited for the future, and the only thing that’s guaranteed is change,” she remarked. Pressed specifically about the Zac Efron rumors, with the interviewer noting, “I saw photos of you,” Dobrev smiled, shook her head, and affirmed, “Yeah,” when asked if they were simply friends.
The whispers of a burgeoning romance between Dobrev and Efron, 37, first ignited after a series of vacation photos surfaced on Instagram on September 18. These images, shared by Keleigh Teller, 32, wife of actor Miles Teller, 38, captured a group getaway aboard a boat. Alongside Dobrev and Efron, the excursion included Keleigh and Miles Teller, and “Gossip Girl” alum Chace Crawford, 40, who is reportedly dating Victoria’s Secret model Kelsey Merritt. One particular photo showed the entire group, including Dobrev in a black ab-cutout bathing suit and a multicolored two-piece bikini, posing in formal attire, with Efron seated behind Dobrev and Keleigh Teller, further fueling the public’s curiosity.
This recent public clarification follows a significant personal shift for Dobrev. PEOPLE magazine exclusively confirmed on Thursday, September 11, that Dobrev and snowboard legend Shaun White, 39, had called off their engagement and ended their five-year relationship. Sources close to the former couple offered differing perspectives on the split. One insider initially described it as a “mutual decision” made “with love and a deep respect for one another,” despite its difficulty. However, subsequent reports from multiple sources indicated a more nuanced reason: Dobrev’s desire for marriage and to start a family contrasted with White’s apparent reluctance on that front. One source even claimed Dobrev was “devastated” by the situation, though another countered that both individuals genuinely “wanted marriage and kids,” suggesting the divergence wasn’t one-sided. Regardless of the exact dynamic, the separation marks a notable chapter’s close for both celebrities.
With Dobrev confirming her friendship with Efron and openly embracing the future, the actress appears focused on new beginnings, both personally and professionally, navigating the complexities of public life with a clear resolve.
