Nina Dobrev evidently used her 2025 Halloween costume to send a pointed message about her breakup from Shaun White. At a New York City party at the Crane Club Restaurant, the former “Vampire Diaries” star took to Instagram on Friday to unveil her dramatic look as Tiffany Valentine — the notorious companion of the killer doll “Chucky.”

In the photos, Dobrev wore a white dress paired with a black leather jacket, black spider-web tights and patent leather booties. She also sported a blonde wig with dark roots and a fake chest tattoo reading “Chucky” over a pierced heart, an homage to Tiffany’s look in the 1998 horror film.

Many fans seized on the hairstyle detail — White’s signature red hair is similar to Chucky’s — and floated the idea that Dobrev’s costume was a deliberate dig at him. One Instagram user commented: “Glad to see Nina found another one to be Chucky than the red-haired guy who was intended at first…” Another added: “The layers to how funny and brilliant this costume is are not lost on me. Get ’em, girl!”

Context of the split
Dobrev (36) and White (39) ended their engagement in September 2025, after five years of dating. According to an insider cited by People, “It was a mutual decision, and wasn’t an easy one, but it was made with love and a deep respect for one another.” 

However, multiple outlets reported that diverging priorities may have undercut the relationship. For instance, Page Six relayed a source telling the Daily Mail that White was ready to start a family and settle down, while Dobrev remained focused on her acting career.  Then again, People also cited another insider insisting both were on board for marriage and children: “It wasn’t just one-sided.” 

Other indicators of tension had surfaced prior to the announcement: Dobrev was seen at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival without her engagement ring and had un-pinned her engagement post on Instagram. 

Was the costume shade or coincidence?
Whether the Tiffany Valentine outfit was intentionally meant to mock the ex-fiancé is unconfirmed, but fans certainly read it as such, given the parallels: the red-haired Chucky figure, the vampy bride persona, the tattoo and leather jacket. In a way, the costume serves as a playful yet bold statement of reclaiming self after a public split. It underscores how celebrities often use fashion and public appearances as subtle communication tools.

What’s next for both?
Dobrev appears to be stepping into a new chapter. Recently, she was spotted on a friend-filled yacht vacation with the likes of Zac Efron, though sources insist there is no romantic tie — just longtime friends enjoying time post-breakup. 

White, meanwhile, has reportedly returned to Beijing and appears to be focusing on his post-snowboard career. 

In any case, whether the costume was conscious commentary or just a clever Halloween choice, it has sparked conversation — and for Dobrev, perhaps serves as a symbolic step forward.