Nina Dobrev is currently making headlines for her unexpected split with fiancé, Shaun White. The duo was considered to be star-crossed lovers by their fans, and their breakup greatly upset them. Besides Shaun White, Nina was linked with multiple other celebrities, including Liam Hemsworth, Austin Stowell and Glen Powell. Among them, her most notable relationship was with her The Vampire Diaries co-star, Ian Somerhalder. However, she dated another auditionee of the series before him. Let’s get to know the lesser-known ex-boyfriend of Nina.
Who did Nina Dobrev date before getting entangled with Ian Somerhalder?
Nina Dobrev revealed that before dating Ian Somerhalder, she was in a relationship with another actor who also auditioned for the role of ‘Damon Salvatore’ of The Vampire Diaries. The news was released in the September 2025 book, I Was Feeling Epic: An Oral History of The Vampire Diaries, authored by Samantha Highfill. The actor Nina was in love with back then was Rob Mayes. The exes auditioned for the lead roles of the series, ‘Damon Salvatore’ and ‘Elena Gilbert’, together.
According to the book’s account, Nina and Rob hid the fact that they were a couple because they were worried it might backfire on them. Nina felt that the casting director might not cast either or both of them, being prejudiced against private relationships between actors that could hinder their professional collaborations. She never had to reveal to them that she was dating Rob, as he couldn’t secure a role in the series, unlike her. That made things ‘awkward’ between them, and they eventually decided to part ways.
Who is Nina Dobrev’s ex-boyfriend, Rob Mayes?
Rob Mayes is an American actor, musician, and model, born in Cleveland, Ohio, on November 17, 1984. He is known for both his acting roles in television and film, as well as his career as a country singer and songwriter. Rob released over 60 singles and four albums. His popular musical offerings include Road With No Lines and Closer, which received Country radio airplay and a feature on CMT’s Next Up Now series. Mayes grew up with musical parents and started playing instruments like the piano and guitar at a young age.
Regarding his acting career, Rob Mayes is best known for his role as ‘John’ in the horror-comedy, John Dies at the End (2012), which premiered at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival. He made his acting debut with the movie, The Last of the Great American Girls (2004). His other notable works include films such as John Dies at the End and Ice Castles, as well as the television series Mistresses and The Client List.
What was next for Rob Mayes and Nina Dobrev after they broke up?
After Nina Dobrev and Rob Mayes’ breakup, she moved on to a high-profile relationship with her The Vampire Diaries co-star, Ian Somerhalder. As for Mayes, he continued his acting career and eventually pivoted to country music. Nina and Ian turned from on-screen partners to real-life beaus in 2010. But after three years of dating, they broke up in May 2013. They remained professional and friendly while continuing to work together on the show.
What are your thoughts on Nina Dobrev dating Rob Mayes and then finding love in the real ‘Damon’, Ian Somerhalder? Let us know.
Also Read: Why Nina Dobrev Said No To Marriage Plans With Shaun White 5 Months Before Split? ‘Sort Of Phase…’