Winner Rachael Kirkconnell publicly apologized after photos surfaced of herself at a Southern Antebellum-themed party and in a Native American costume. Rachael also liked several racially insensitive photos on Instagram, including one of women posing in front of a confederate flag. Longtime show host Chris Harrisonannounced that he was “stepping back” from his role after he defended Rachael during an Extra interview with former Bachelorette star Rachel Lindsay. Chris, who urged people to have compassion for Rachael, came under fire for using terms like “woke police” and saying that the plantation party “was a type of party that a lot of people went to.” But, in all of that, a huge question remains: Did Matt James propose to Rachael Kirkconnell at the end of The Bachelor Season 25? Here’s what we know. Warning: Spoilers ahead.
So, did Matt James propose to Rachael Kirkconnell?
While it’s been clear for a long time that Rachael wins this season of The Bachelor, Matt did not propose to her. The lead-up to the end of the season is pretty dramatic. Matt sends runner-up Michelle Young home during the evening part of their date. And that breakup was incredibly painful to watch. Fast forward to Rachael’s final date with Matt, and it’s also dramatic. Instead of Matt showing up, Chris comes to Rachael’s door and says that her final date is canceled because Matt is confused and needs time to think. The next day, Rachael gets a note from Matt, saying that he’s sorry for not meeting her the day before. Rachael is asked to meet him. Once she gets there, it’s set up like the final rose ceremony. Rachael tells Matt she’s in love with him and doesn’t want to be without him. Matt then tells Rachael he loves her. But, he says, he can’t propose. Still, he gives her the final rose and they end the show as a couple. Not engaged, just a couple. And Rachael is totally OK with it, it seemed at least.
OK, but are Matt and Rachael still together?
Nope, it was confirmed during the Season 25 After the Final Rose special that they had broken up amid the scandal regarding her social media posts. For more on Matt and Rachael’s relationship, here’s what we know about their current status.
