In a heartfelt revelation, Rachael Kirkconnell shared insights about her shocking breakup with Matt James during the January 28th episode of the popular podcast, ‘Call Her Daddy.’ The announcement of their split on January 16th surprised many, especially since just days before, the couple was exploring thoughts of marriage. Kirkconnell’s willingness to talk has opened a window into their relationship, which many fans from ‘The Bachelor’ had followed closely.
The Breakup That Took Everyone by Surprise
The relationship came to a sudden end after a trip to Tokyo, which, according to Kirkconnell, left her feeling blindsided. She spoke candidly about the things that led to the split, specifically pointing out James’ hesitance about marriage as a serious concern. While they had talked about possibly getting engaged, Kirkconnell realized that James wasn’t actually ready to take that next step.
Public Announcement Leaves Rachael Shocked
Rachael learned about their breakup through social media rather than directly from James, which added confusion to her heartbreak. In an Instagram post, James expressed hopes for healing while sharing a nostalgic image from their first meeting on ‘The Bachelor.’ Kirkconnell noted that learning about this announcement online was not only unexpected but also deeply hurtful.
Facing Relationship Challenges
- Kirkconnell felt a sense of imbalance in their relationship, often apologizing more than James did.
- Despite appearing to share a strong bond, the couple never actually lived together, which Kirkconnell now views as a red flag.
- James’s religious beliefs reportedly played a role in their living arrangements.
- She admitted that arguments about small issues, like restaurant choices, highlighted larger problems between them.
Rachael’s Reflections After the Split
Kirkconnell expressed her feelings of insecurity during their four-year relationship, noting that there seemed to be a power imbalance largely due to James’s status as the star of a reality show. In reflecting on their time together, she acknowledged moments where she took on the role of a peacekeeper, trying to resolve conflicts that often left her feeling overwhelmed.
Healing and Moving Forward
With the emotions still fresh, Kirkconnell is determined to focus on personal healing. She emphasized the importance of moving forward while acknowledging the love they once shared. She clarified that readers should understand that while many saw their relationship from an outside perspective, there were complicated feelings beneath the surface.
The Road Ahead for Rachael and Matt
Now, as they both navigate this new chapter in their lives apart, Kirkconnell hopes to preserve some positive memories, emphasizing that she doesn’t want to portray James as a villain. Both stars are figuring out what life looks like after their breakup, with Kirkconnell committed to moving ahead personally. Whether they’ll remain in each other’s lives as friends is still uncertain, but Kirkconnell remains optimistic for the future.
