The relationship between country star Zach Bryan and podcaster Brianna Chickenfry LaPaglia captivated fans from the moment it became public in mid2023. But after more than a year together, the pair broke up in October 2024 and what followed was drama, emotion, and public accusations. So, did Zach and Brianna break up? Yes. And their split has been messy, emotional, and widely covered. Here’s a comprehensive look at their relationship, breakup, and aftermath.
How They Met and Their Rapid Connection
Zach Bryan and Brianna LaPaglia first crossed paths at the Academy of Country Music Awards in May 2023. Their connection soon grew: she appeared at one of his concerts in New York, and he later reached out sparking an intense and highly publicized relationship that was confirmed in July 2023.
Their romance continued to attract attention for blending the worlds of country music and influencer culture. They celebrated their oneyear anniversary in July 2024 with heartfelt social media tributes from both.
The October 2024 Breakup
On October 22, 2024, Zach posted an Instagram story announcing their split. He explained that he had faced a very difficult year and thought a break would be best for both of them.
Brianna soon responded via YouTube, saying she was blindsided by Zach’s announcement. She described waking up to messages from friends and fans before being informed and said she needed time off social media to heal.
The Public Unfolding
- Zach’s breakup announcement came without warning to Brianna, leaving her emotionally unprepared.
- LaPaglia shared that she had spent multiple days crying after feeling discarded despite giving her all to the relationship.
Drama and Allegations After the Split
After the split, details emerged suggesting that the relationship had darker aspects. On her BFFs podcast, Brianna accused Zach of emotional abuse, describing it as a cycle of buildyouup, beatyoudown, apology repeats. She also alleged that he offered her a $12 million nondisclosure agreement to stay silent about the relationship.
One dramatic episode involved the Golden Globes: Brianna revealed that Zach objected to her wearing a silver, seethrough dress, contributing to tension and conflict that night.
Public Response and Music
The breakup continued playing out publicly:
- Cohosts of her podcast released diss tracks targeting Zach, including Smallest Man and Country Diddy, before they were removed from platforms.
- Zach responded musically, releasing High Road shortly after Brianna’s podcast accusations though he didn’t directly address them.
Aftermath and Brianna’s Reclamation
Following the split, Brianna has moved forward in her own way. In January 2025, she appeared as a cover model for Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit issue, calling it a reclaiming moment and a step toward rebuilding her confidence after the breakup.
She also shared that the split prompted reflection on her sexuality. In early 2025 she mentioned possibly identifying more fully as a lesbian, noting her disinterest in future relationships with men.
Current Status and Closure
Today, the relationship remains officially over. Zach and Brianna have not reconciled, and neither has publicly indicated a desire to rekindle their romance.
- Zach continues focusing on his music career, with no sign of reuniting.
- Brianna is focusing on her personal growth, career, and advocacy, with new projects and selfdiscovery.
Why This Breakup Matters
Their split highlights the challenges of dating in the public eye, especially when fame, mental health, and power dynamics intersect. Social media amplified their breakup, turning personal conflict into a public spectacle. The allegations of abuse and hushmoney offers sparked conversations about accountability in romantic relationships, even among public figures.
Did Zach and Brianna Break Up?
Yes, Zach Bryan and Brianna LaPaglia ended their relationship in October 2024. The breakup unfolded publicly, marked by emotional revelations, public accusations, diss tracks, and significant media coverage. In the following months, both have moved on in different ways Zach through his music, and Brianna through selfempowerment and new personal explorations.
Their breakup serves as a powerful example of how modern relationships, especially those involving public figures, can become amplified and scrutinized far beyond the private sphere. This was a breakup that went beyond a simple split it became a cultural moment, raising questions about emotional health, fame, and the limits of public interest in celebrity lives.
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