Reality TV star Sam Thompson has signalled his new relationship with actress Talitha Balinska is going from strength to strength after the pair spent their first Christmas together. The 33-year-old Made in Chelsea alumnus shared intimate festive photos on Instagram, offering fans a glimpse into their holiday celebrations with his family.
A Family Christmas for the New Couple
The couple marked the occasion at a family gathering, joining Sam's mother, his sister Louise Thompson, 35, her fiancé Ryan Libbey, 35, and their four-year-old son, Leo. The images painted a picture of domestic bliss, with one showing Sam and Talitha in matching red and white candy cane striped pyjamas, adorned with festive wreath and Christmas tree motifs.
Another snapshot captured the pair wrapped in a blanket together outdoors, smiling warmly for the camera. This public display of affection comes just weeks after Thompson officially confirmed the relationship in early December, following several months of dating.
From Friends to Romance: How They Got Together
The couple's connection was reportedly forged through mutual friend and former Made in Chelsea co-star Reza Amiri-Garroussi. They first met in 2023 when Balinska modelled for a campaign for Sam and Reza's sunglasses brand, Dinelli. At the time, Thompson was in a long-term relationship with Zara McDermott.
The romance blossomed later, after Talitha was invited as a surprise guest to Sam's live show at the O2 Arena. A source told the Daily Mail that following this reunion, "the rest is history." Thompson's five-year relationship with McDermott had ended in December 2024.
"I've Got a Girlfriend!": Sam's Exciting Announcement
Sam Thompson couldn't contain his excitement when discussing the new relationship on his Staying Relevant podcast with best friend Pete Wicks. He enthusiastically declared, "I've got a girlfriend. I've got a girlfriend!" to which Wicks jokingly replied, "We've lost him again to the dark powers of a woman."
When pressed for details about the "will you be my girlfriend" moment, Sam described a low-key scenario. "Mate, it was just super relaxed. It was so boring really, but that's kind of how I wanted it to be," he explained. He recounted a simple dinner where he expressed his feelings, stating, "I really, really like you and you make me feel really… comfortable. I feel like I can be myself around you."
He emphasised his serious intentions at 33, saying he wouldn't be dating someone unless he believed it "had legs to last." After she said yes, a delighted Sam proclaimed, "Christmas is back on! I'm happy," marking a significant turnaround from the previous year's holiday season, which was overshadowed by his split from Zara McDermott.
