Looking Back at Nina Dobrev and Shaun White’s Winning Romance

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It seemed that Nina Dobrev and Shaun White were happily coasting toward forever. 

Following the Olympic snowboarder’s heartfelt proposal in October, which took place amidst candles and an abundance of white flowers that filled an entire store, the former star of “The Vampire Diaries” shared during an exclusive interview with TopMob News’ Francesca Amiker in March, “We’re just savoring our engagement right now and being in this particular phase. Since a large part of one’s life is spent either having a boyfriend or a husband, the engagement period is relatively brief.

While eager to embrace her fresh married life fully, “I’m looking forward to savoring the experience and not hurrying through it.

It’s not hard to guess that fans were taken aback when, at ages 36 and 39 respectively, the celebrity and the athlete appeared to have a change of heart, with media outlets such as People reporting on September 11th that they had called off their engagement.

Through sufficient experience in dating, be it in Hollywood or elsewhere, you’ll inevitably develop strategies to navigate through turbulent times in relationships.

Dobrev’s go-to wound-licking strategy involves her closest friends and a passport. 

The actress, born in Bulgaria but raised in Canada, stated in a 2018 interview with Cosmopolitan that she’s “traveled quite extensively.” She generally prefers to invest in experiences rather than possessions. Her journeys have taken her to Thailand, Japan, Australia, Brussels, and Switzerland, among other places. She finds joy in immersing herself in different cultures, meeting new people, and escaping her regular routine.

She’s the type who gives her all to work and play, giving it 130% in both aspects. When off-duty, she has no fixed schedule. Additionally, she mentioned that this drive to keep going intensifies, especially when she’s rebounding from the end of a relationship.

When asked about her reliable approach to handling breakups, she revealed to the magazine that a plane ticket, a glass of tequila, and some girlfriends are what she relies on.

That wanderlust played a key role in her early days with White. 

After attending a seminar led by Tony Robbins in Florida towards the end of 2019 (White admitted he had no prior knowledge about her), they embarked on a new journey in South Africa the following February, having booked a flight together.

Some attentive fans of Dobrev observed that as Dobrev shared photos from her visit to Cheetah Outreach, a morning trek to the summit of Lions Head Mountain, and a safari vacation, it appeared that White was imitating Dobrev’s actions on his own social media platform. This imitation extended to a solo shot, artfully captured during the golden hour, in the midst of Kruger National Park.

Later on, White mused to Us Weekly, “That was essentially the foundation of our relationship.” He added, “She realized, ‘This man means business,’ and I, in turn, discovered that she also cherishes exploration and travel.

Initially, it might seem surprising to pair the actress from “Love Hard” with a three-time Olympic gold medalist as travel companions. However, Dobrev’s friends were wholeheartedly supportive of their adventurous journey together.

In March 2020, a source informed TopMob News that actress Nina has moved on from her three-year relationship with Ian Somerhalder, who she co-starred with on TVD, as well as past relationships with actors Austin Stowell and Glen Powell. The source revealed that Nina’s new partner, Grant Mellon, represents a change of pace, with her friends expressing pleasant surprise at this new development.

Over time, what began as a tentative experiment grew into a genuine relationship – something they hadn’t foreseen when celebrating New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas at the start of 2020.

In simple terms, the insider shared with TopMob News that the relationship between these individuals started off gradually. However, once quarantine began, they found themselves with a lot of uninterrupted time together due to lack of work and social events. The insider added that the pace of their relationship has significantly increased during this period of social distancing.

It appeared that the couple were perfectly suited for each other by the point where she posted a picture of them both during a quarantine haircut – they seemed like an unbeatable duo.

Although she wasn’t referring to the 11-time ESPY winner when she discussed her ideal partner with Cosmo in 2013, she emphasized that chemistry is crucial but what draws her is a man’s intellect, wit, and talent. Perhaps his collection of 15 gold X Games medals fits this description as well?

The actress from the movie “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” expressed a preference for a man who was well-dressed and tidy in his suit, but also mentioned that she found appealing the rugged charm of a guy who seemed like he had just woken up, with a bit of stubble, giving off an easygoing, nonchalant vibe, yet still exuding sexiness without trying too hard.

Dobrev checked off White’s boxes as well. 

During the Olympics in 2018, the athlete spoke to People about how his relationship with Sarah Barthel, a Phantogram rocker, managed to thrive despite their different lifestyles. He said, “We inhabit separate realms, which is why it’s enjoyable for us to merge and exchange our experiences from our journeys.” It’s worth noting that Dobrev, being an experienced snowboarder herself, likely wouldn’t be assessing White’s Double McTwist 1260.

White likewise expressed gratitude for individuals who not only comprehend his nomadic way of life, but embody it as well. As he put it, “It’s refreshing not to have someone constantly asking, ‘When will you be returning home?'” He acknowledged that such people truly grasp the concept of being perpetually on the move.

And while Dobrev can’t exactly lay claim to three Olympic gold medals, she does know how to shred. 

As a long-time devotee, I can honestly say that my passion for snowboarding traces back to my early years. In an appearance on TopMob’s Daily Pop in the year 2022, I shared this insight. Initially, I was introduced to skiing, but around the age of 8 or 9, I made the transition to snowboarding and never looked back.

For the very first time on those slopes, it turned out to be an enjoyable surprise when White discovered I had left him far behind. As she put it herself, “He thought he’d be waiting for me, but the situation was quite the contrary.” In reality, I had outpaced him significantly! Now, it seems I can match his speed just fine!

That moment checked off a big box for White. 

TopMob News reported in May 2024 that he stated she excels on a skateboard. Having been raised in Canada, her origins were advantageous in their relationship, as skating skills can sometimes be a deciding factor. However, he admitted there were instances where individuals he mentored encountered difficulties due to his occasional ineffectiveness as a coach.

But he proved himself to be a top-notch teammate.

In March 2020, a casual bike ride in Malibu unwittingly revealed our partnership to the public. However, trying to keep up the charade of traveling separately became increasingly difficult. Consequently, we both started sharing our adventures on social media under the hashtag “#QuaranTrip”. This journey took us through scenic spots like Lake Powell, Utah, Nevada, and Arizona’s Red Rock State Park, as well as a snowboarding trip.

By late May, they had completely unveiled their project, offering fans a glimpse of Nina’s hairdressing abilities on their first joint post. As TopMob News reveals, “Nina isn’t casual about sharing her personal life.” The insider continues, “This action demonstrates how content and confident she is with Shaun and their relationship, as she’s willing to take this step.

The pair took more than a few after that. 

Despite COVID restrictions keeping Nina Dobrev from attending her partner’s fifth (and last) Olympic Games in Beijing for the 2021 event, she still managed to bid him an emotional farewell. Speaking on Today, he expressed his admiration saying, “Her farewell to China was absolutely stunning!” He continued, “She created a remarkable video featuring all my friends and family. It was truly incredible.

She expressed her enthusiasm about him, stating, “I am thrilled for him!” During her interview on TopMob’s Daily Pop, she remarked, “Merely qualifying for the Olympics is an incredible achievement, but to make it five times? Incredible! I couldn’t be more excited and proud of him.

Like his runs, their relationship hit some lofty highs and at least a few lows. 

In a heartfelt Instagram post last November, I couldn’t help but express my overwhelming joy at being with this extraordinary woman and becoming part of her wonderful family. What started as a special bond formed during the quarantine blossomed into a deep, lasting connection, and now, it’s an eternal love for us.

Hidden from view, just like any other partnership, we’ve faced challenges. However, our knack for open communication and mending those issues is what propels us forward side by side.

Despite parting ways and treading separate paths from now on, their romantic journey was nothing short of thrilling. Let’s revisit their most memorable moments together.

Dobrev and White developed a rapport following a joint New Year’s Eve party with friends, including her Vampire Diaries co-stars Kayla Ewell and Candice Accola King, at the grand opening of The Mayfair, a new supper club in Las Vegas at the Bellagio Resort & Casino.

A year later, during the coronavirus pandemic, Dobrev posted a photo from that party, as well as a video of them playfully lifting and dipping like in Dirty Dancing, only to tumble into the snow. The caption read, “How we imagined 2020 would unfold…how it actually panned out.

Rumors of a romantic connection between Dobrev and White intensified when they were observed riding bikes together in Malibu, California. According to a source who spoke with TopMob News, the duo started growing closer following New Year’s Eve, with their bond strengthening significantly after the coronavirus outbreak. The source added that, after spending several weeks together during quarantine, Dobrev and White have publicly declared themselves as a serious couple to their friends.

They publicly acknowledged their relationship on Instagram by both posting a picture of the actress cutting White’s hair at home since most hair salons were closed due to COVID-19 restrictions. In her caption, Dobrev humorously mentioned that she had added ‘hairdresser’ to her list of skills.

Dobrev and White celebrate Thanksgiving with his family, as seen in photos he posts on Instagram.

From the content on their Instagram accounts, it appears that Dobrev and White took two trips to the vicinity of Zion National Park in Utah during the year 2020, once in May and again in December.

The two spend the holidays together in December 2020.

As New Year’s Eve approached, a source disclosed to TopMob News that they are “openly discussing their shared future” and that they are “extremely happy together,” suggesting that their relationship is strong and thriving.

Dobrev marked a repeat of her 31st birthday during her 32nd, and White honored her by sharing pictures featuring the two donning similar styles from that time.

Alongside pal Adam DeVine, the duo opted to portray characters from The Queen’s Gambit for their Halloween costumes. White assumed the role of the renowned Beth Harmon, while Dobrev emulated U.S. chess champion, Benny Watts.

Dobrev hit the slopes with her pro snowboarder love at Copper Mountain in Colorado.

After White placed fourth in the Men’s Snowboard Halfpipe event at the 2022 Olympics and decided to retire from competitions, Dobrev shared her pride for him on Instagram. In part of her post, she wrote, “The closing of one phase sets the stage for a thrilling new beginning with countless opportunities. You will always be the best snowboarder there ever was. And let’s not forget that you are also the greatest boyfriend in history.

The couple finally went red carpet official at the Top Gun: Maverick film premiere in London.

Accompanied by her boyfriend dressed in a tuxedo, Dobrev sparkled radiantly in a red Monot dress at the 28th yearly amfAR Gala, which took place during the 75th Cannes Film Festival.

On that day, the pair took time to observe the qualifying sessions for the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix, gearing up for the main event. To match the occasion, Dobrev sported an elegant, pastel-toned suit from Smythe.

The two turned up the heat while vacationing in the Maldives.

In a touching Instagram post on White’s 36th birthday, Dobrev expressed, “I couldn’t have made a better choice [ and he certainly found something interesting ], as evidenced by his actions.” Wishing him belated happy birthday, she affectionately referred to him as her peculiar one. @shaunwhite.

What was White’s true opinion about Dobrev’s cheerleading scene from Degrassi: The Next Generation? The athlete shared their reaction on TikTok, further demonstrating that they have each other’s backs.

The duo celebrated the holidays with a family trip to Mexico.

In a friendly and conversational tone, Ian White expressed on Instagram for Nina Dobrev’s 34th birthday during their Antarctic adventure: “From which planet do you hail, and may I join you on your journey?!” He also conveyed his gratitude by saying, “Thank you for making life extraordinary! Happy birthday to my beloved one.

On Valentine’s Day 2023, the actress penned, “Life is like a roller coaster with you.” It switches from solemn to playful moments in an instant… Thank you for constantly putting a smile on my face. Happy Valentine’s Day @shaunwhite.

In my life, your presence has made the most thrilling journey! Wishing you a happy 35th birthday, my dear!” wrote White on Dobrev’s birthday on Instagram. “Happy birthday to you!

The duo looked so sharp at the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party they deserve their own trophy.

On the Fourth of July, they joyously celebrated alongside several famous acquaintances, such as Miles Teller and his partner Keleigh, as well as Usher.

On October 30, 2024, Shaun and Nina made their engagement public. Exactly a week after that, they graced their first joint red carpet appearance as an engaged pair, at the 2024 Earthshot Prize Awards held in Cape Town, South Africa.

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2025-09-11 18:18