AceShowbiz - Zach Bryan, the 28-year-old country music star, and Brianna LaPaglia, known to fans as Brianna "Chickenfry," have officially ended their relationship. Bryan addressed the split on his Instagram Stories on October 22, expressing deep respect and love for LaPaglia.

"Addressing something: Brianna and me have broken up with each other and I respect and love her with every ounce of my heart," stated Bryan.

"I have had an incredibly hard year personally and struggled through some pretty severe things. I thought it would be beneficial for both of us to go our different ways," he continued. "I am not perfect and never will be. Please respect Brianna's privacy and space in this and if you have it in your heart, mine too."

Shortly after Bryan's heartfelt message, LaPaglia, 25, expressed her feelings of being "blindsided" by the breakup. She took to her Instagram Stories to share her intent to step back from social media while she heals. "Hey guys, I'm feeling really blindsided right now," she began. "Gonna hop off social media for a while and attempt to heal privately, when I'm ready I'll be back and ready to talk."

"I love you guys so much thank you for all of your kind words. Remember you are so loved and everything's always gonna be okay."

The couple first met at the Academy of Country Music Awards in May 2023, where they quickly bonded. Their chemistry was undeniable, and by July 2023, LaPaglia made their relationship public on her podcast, "PlanBri Uncut". They even celebrated their one-year anniversary together this past July, with Bryan posting a touching tribute, "Here's to a year together. Happy anniversary and I love you so much Brianna."

However, rumors of their breakup began swirling when fans noticed Bryan's profile on the dating app Raya and LaPaglia's cryptic Instagram post. The post, which featured a handwritten note on a yellow notebook, hinted at moving on despite emotional stagnation. "And eventually you'll find that life goes on, even if you don't want it to," the note began.

The couple had shared significant moments, including a near-fatal car crash during Bryan's "Quittin Time" tour in May, where LaPaglia recounted thinking they were saying their goodbyes. Despite this strong bond, Bryan's statement made it clear that personal struggles and severe challenges influenced their decision to part ways.

As they navigate their separate paths, Bryan and LaPaglia have asked for privacy and understanding from their fans. Their split serves as a reminder that even high-profile relationships are vulnerable to the strains of personal hardship.