In a dramatic twist of events, Matt James, “The Bachelor” alum, revealed that he was ending his four-year romance with Rachael Kirkconnell on January 16, 2025. The fours’ time together spanned from when the romance went from reality TV material to its current breakup.
A Relationship Conceived on Reality Television
Matt James was the first Black male lead on Season 25 of “The Bachelor” that was hosted in early 2021. One of his contestants was graphic designer Rachael Kirkconnell from Georgia. They clicked instantaneously, and he proposed with a final rose for Kirkconnell. They took an unconventional step: rather than popping the question during the show finale, the pair decided to stick together as partners but remain unwed and attempt to build on their connection off the air.
Navigating Controversy and Reconciliation
After her season ended, Kirkconnell was clutched in a web of public scrutiny when past photos surfaced of her being racially insensitive. Some of these included pictures of her attending an antebellum-themed party in 2018. This raised a national conversation on race and representation in the “Bachelor” franchise. In response, Kirkconnell gave a public apology for her actions, expressing how sorry she was and vowing to learn and grow.
The couple went through a rocky patch in their relationship that put them apart for some time. During the “After the Final Rose” special in March 2021, James relayed some of the struggles they’d experienced in the relationship, calling for compassion and understanding as a need to upend those problems. Yet in April of 2021, James confirmed they were, however, together and working through their differences.
Life Outside the Limelight
James and Kirkconnell kept their relationship relatively private over the following years, but they would occasionally share glimpses of their life together on social media. They went to events, supported each other’s endeavors, and seemed to be building a future together. In December 2024, Kirkconnell posted a heartfelt birthday tribute to James, describing him as her “best friend” and expressing gratitude for their shared experiences.
The Unforeseen Breakup
The news came as a huge shock to so many, following the couple’s recent public display. On 16 January 2025, James posted an Instagram message expressing his feelings after the breakup as follows: “Father God, give Rachael and I strength to mend our broken hearts. Give us peace about this decision to end our relationship that transcends worldly understanding.” He sought kindness and also privacy as he went through his personal transition process.
Interestingly, just hours before the announcement, James had shared a video of the couple enjoying pizza in London, suggesting that the decision to part ways was both recent and amicable. Kirkconnell has yet to make a public statement regarding the separation.
Reflections on Their Journey
The relationship between James and Kirkconnell was emblematic of the complexities that can arise when personal lives are thrust into the public eye. Their journey highlighted the challenges of addressing past mistakes, the importance of open dialogue about race and representation, and the pressures that come with public scrutiny.
As they go their separate ways, both of them have expressed a desire to grow and understand. Their story is a reminder of the human aspect behind reality television personas and the real emotions involved in love and heartbreak.
While the future paths of James and Kirkconnell are personal, their experiences over the last four years have undoubtedly shaped their perspectives. Fans and followers can only hope that both find peace and fulfillment in their respective journeys ahead.
