
The sun-drenched shores of Italy's Puglia region played host to a dazzling display of Hollywood royalty this week, as a coterie of A-list stars descended for a luxurious summer retreat. At the heart of the action was Chace Crawford, famed for his role in The Boys, who was spotted enjoying a romantic escape with Filipino-American model and reality TV star Kelsey Merritt.
The couple left little to the imagination, engaging in a series of affectionate displays aboard a private yacht. Photographs captured the pair in a passionate embrace, with Crawford, 38, looking every bit the smitten beau as they enjoyed a day cruising the sparkling Mediterranean waters.
Adding to the star power was a surprise Vampire Diaries reunion, as Crawford's former co-star Nina Dobrev arrived with her boyfriend, Zac Efron. The group was seen laughing and chatting animatedly, effortlessly blending Crawford's old Hollywood circle with his new.
Dobrev and Efron, one of Tinseltown's most talked-about couples, matched the romantic energy. They were photographed sharing a kiss on the same yacht, confirming their loved-up status against the stunning Italian backdrop.
The holiday appears to be a multi-destination Italian affair for Crawford and Merritt. Prior to the yacht scene, the new couple was seen looking blissfully happy while exploring the iconic coastal town of Positano on the Amalfi Coast, further fuelling romance rumours.
This very public getaway all but confirms the relationship between Crawford and Merritt, which has been the subject of speculation for weeks. Their Italian adventure, filled with sun, sea, and serious PDA, marks their official debut as a couple in the celebrity spotlight.