Bachelor Nation’s Kaitlyn Bristowe and Ben Higgins recently opened up about their respective exes, Shawn Booth and Lauren Bushnell, who claimed that their relationships weren’t real. Bristowe shared on the “Almost Famous” podcast that her feelings were deeply hurt by Booth’s comments, as she felt their relationship was one of the most real and loving experiences of her life. Bristowe’s biggest fear was having someone fall out of love with her, and she felt that was what happened with Booth, making his validation of that fear even more painful. Bristowe and Booth got engaged on season 11 of The Bachelorette but ended their relationship three years later in 2018. Higgins made his debut on Bristowe’s season of The Bachelorette in 2015 and later became the star of The Bachelor.
Higgins expressed that their relationships were very real to them, as they deeply impacted their lives and led them to where they are now. He mentioned that his relationship with Bushnell led him to his wife, Jessica Clarke, whom he married in November 2021. Higgins was hurt and confused by the comments made by his ex, Bushnell, about their relationship not being as impactful. Bushnell had shared these thoughts on Booth’s podcast, “In the Booth,” in July 2023, where she expressed that her feelings may not have been as deep as she initially thought at the time. Booth also discussed his bitterness about his experience on the reality show, feeling that certain aspects were not accurately portrayed.
Higgins responded to Bushnell’s comments, expressing his frustration at how his genuine experience on the show was being questioned. He had invested a lot of personal effort into the process of finding a partner and felt that his authenticity was being undermined. On the recent episode of “Almost Famous,” Higgins emphasized that he knows his own truth and stands by his experience. Bristowe echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that while she was initially hurt by Booth’s comments, she has come to terms with it and understands that they may have had different experiences. She expressed optimism about where her journey will lead her next, with the valuable lessons she gained from her past relationships.
Both Bristowe and Higgins agreed that they cannot change how their exes perceived their relationships and have chosen to focus on their individual experiences and personal growth. Despite the hurtful comments made by their exes about the authenticity of their relationships, Bristowe and Higgins have chosen to move forward with grace and acceptance. They acknowledge that their time in Bachelor Nation was a significant part of their lives and ultimately led them to where they are today. While the comments from their exes may have been painful, both Bristowe and Higgins are resilient and optimistic about the future, knowing that they have grown from their past relationships and are open to what lies ahead. They have chosen to prioritize their own truths and experiences, understanding that everyone’s journey is unique and shaped by personal perspectives and emotions.
