Earlier this year Nina Dobrev and Ben McKenzie were photographed hugging each other at a Comic Con event and then leaving in a cab together. Almost immediately, dating rumors started spreading. Now, months later, Ben has spoken out and claims the two have a strictly platonic relationship.

"[Rumors started] because I gave Nina Dobrev a hug! The one time I actually [wasn't dating] someone," Ben told Elle magazine. "I'm really shy about that stuff. I really don't like relationships to be played out in public. It creates terrible strain. It creates bizarre dynamics."

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While we're glad that Ben spoke up about those pesky rumors, we're pretty sure Nina's fans never actually believed the story. After all, Nina is always being linked to a new guy.

The actress even made fun of the rumors this past summer tweeting:

Though Nina is keeping her love life under wraps, fans think she may actually be dating her The Vampire Diaries co-star Chris Wood. According to sources, the two have been spotted kissing on and off set and being super cuddly.

Do you think Nina and Chris make a cute couple? Do you think they're actually dating? Sound off in the comments below.

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