Benjamin Ayres Steps Into the Spotlight With Caitlin Crosby, Relationship Now Official on Instagram

Benjamin Ayres has made his relationship with Caitlin Crosby official on social media. The 49-year-old star of the Hallmark series Hope Valley: 1874 revealed the romance on Saturday, June 6, posting a carousel of images alongside his girlfriend.

In his caption, Ayres drew parallels between his television work and real life. "One thing I've learned making Hallmark movies is that you never quite know where the story is going to take you," he wrote. "There can be unexpected plot twists, plenty of character development and certainly some lessons along the way. Thankfully, this story led me to @caitlincrosby"

The announcement prompted quick responses from Ayres's colleagues in the Hallmark universe. Holland Roden commented enthusiastically about the couple, noting their children as well. "Cutest couple!! Whom I also think you both have the cutest kiddos!! Also can we talk about the RU photoshopped Ben photo in the background. I want this story," she wrote.

Nikkie DeLoach also chimed in with her support, writing, "So so happy for both of you!! You both deserve so much goodness. Love you"

Though this marks their debut as a couple on Instagram, Ayres and Crosby have been spotted together previously. They attended the When Calls the Heart & Hope Valley: 1874 Celebration at The Sun Rose Hotel in West Hollywood, California in March.

Ayres was previously married to Erin Ayres beginning in 2008, and the two share two daughters. Crosby has her own history in the entertainment world and previously dated actor Zachary Levi. She was married to Colin Crosby in 2014, and they have two children together.

Beyond acting, Crosby has built a career as both a singer and entrepreneur. Her television credits include appearances on That's So Raven, 7th Heaven, That '70s Show, Strong Medicine, Living with Fran, Malcolm in the Middle, and The Hard Times of RJ Berger, along with film roles in Karaoke Man, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Undead, Shades of Ray, and Shelter.

Crosby is also the founder of The Giving Keys, a company that hand-stamps products with motivational messages including words like Believe, Love, and Strength, as well as personalized inscriptions. The business model operates on a pay-it-forward basis and directs a portion of its profits to Chrysalis, a nonprofit organization that offers employment support and resources to individuals working to transition out of homelessness.