Reality television personality Sam Thompson has publicly confirmed his new romance, telling fans and friends that he is officially in a relationship with model and producer Talitha Balinska. The 33-year-old former Made In Chelsea star made the happy announcement during the latest episode of his Staying Relevant podcast with best friend Pete Wicks, declaring excitedly: "Christmas is back on!"
The Official Confirmation
Thompson shared the intimate details of how he asked Balinska to be his girlfriend, describing a low-key dinner date. "I just went for dinner, and I was like, 'I really like you'. And I just went, 'I'd love to be your boyfriend'," he recounted to co-host Pete Wicks. He emphasised the comfortable nature of their connection, stating he felt he could truly be himself around her.
Wicks jokingly remarked, "We've lost him again to the dark powers of a woman," as Thompson celebrated his new relationship status. The confirmation comes just over a year after Thompson's highly publicised split from his long-term girlfriend, documentary maker Zara McDermott, in 2024.
How Sam and Talitha's Romance Blossomed
The pair were first introduced two years ago when Balinska modelled for a sunglasses brand co-owned by Thompson's friend, former MIC co-star Reza Amiri-Garroussi. At that time, in 2023, Thompson was still in a relationship with Zara McDermott.
They reconnected recently after Balinska was invited as a surprise guest to Thompson's live show at the O2 Arena. It was Amiri-Garroussi who ultimately played matchmaker and set the couple up on their first date. A source told The Sun in October that "Sam is smitten and thinks Talitha is really smart and talented."
Thompson had previously hinted at the romance on social media in October, posting a skit where he built a Harry Potter LEGO set with a mystery date, who was later revealed to be Balinska.
Moving On From Past Relationships
Thompson's relationship history has been a feature of his time in the public eye. His most significant previous partnership was his five-year relationship with Zara McDermott, which ended in 2024. Following that split, he briefly dated Love Island star Samie Elishi before that romance fizzled out.
An insider revealed in March that Thompson found it difficult to see McDermott move on with One Direction's Louis Tomlinson so publicly. "Sam is hurting after seeing the photos of Zara and Louis on a date," a source told Metro at the time, noting he was focusing on his career.
In a potentially awkward twist, both Talitha Balinska and Samie Elishi attended the same beauty event in October, reportedly avoiding conversation while seated at the same table.
Thompson is now looking firmly to the future, planning to take his new girlfriend on a skiing holiday with his sister, Louise Thompson, and her partner. With a new love confirmed, Sam Thompson's festive spirit has well and truly been restored.
