Rachael Kirkconnell’s emotional journey after her breakup with Matt James has raised significant questions about The Bachelor producers’ commitment to genuine romance. The pair, who became known during Matt’s season in 2021, faced numerous challenges. Although Matt expressed interest in a relationship with Rachael, he opted not to propose during the finale. Their initial breakup was prompted by resurfaced controversies around Rachael’s racially insensitive behavior, but they reconciled shortly thereafter.
The couple enjoyed a four-year relationship until January 2025, when Matt unexpectedly ended things. In a revealing guest appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast, Rachael shared how the producers’ pressure contributed to her feelings of inadequacy following the split. While Matt’s reluctance to propose didn’t dishearten her, Rachael indicated that the production team made her feel as though their relationship was a failure.
Discontent Among Producers Over Engagement Outcome
Expectations for a Fairytale Ending
It’s unsurprising that the show’s producers were disappointed by Matt’s choice to forgo an engagement. The essence of The Bachelor hinges on contestants making rapid romantic commitments, which raises the stakes significantly. Since Matt and Rachael opted for a more measured approach, it reportedly created a rift with the show’s creators, leading the couple to distance themselves from the franchise.
Matt’s season was notable, as he was the first Black Bachelor, yet it was marred by criticism over various factors, including accusations of racism and the lack of a traditional engagement. The show seemed preoccupied with the absence of an engagement rather than addressing the serious issues surrounding Rachael’s past.
Trends of Short-Lived Engagements Within The Franchise
Proposals Often Lack Substance
Despite their breakup in early 2025, Matt and Rachael maintained one of the longer relationships in The Bachelor history. Rachael admitted during her podcast interview that Matt’s reluctance to propose was a significant factor in their split. Their decision to nurture their connection over four years, rather than rushing towards an engagement, ultimately facilitated a healthier separation.
The producers still exude pressure on leads to propose at the conclusion of the season, despite the brief duration of their dating experience. Numerous viewers are now skeptical of the show’s credibility, given the increasing number of couples, including Jenn Tran and Devin Strader, and Arie Luyendyk Jr.and Becca Kufrin, whose engagements fell apart in less than three months. Departing the show as a couple, rather than getting engaged, has proven a more favorable outcome for many.
Are Producers Pressuring Contestants Into Engagement?
The Quest for a Picture-Perfect Romance
Though The Bachelor ostensibly focuses on love, it’s largely about entertainment value. While producers wish to cultivate authentic romantic stories, their primary objective is to produce compelling television, which drives their adherence to a rigid schedule. The logical transition from selecting a girlfriend to proposing would lessen the intensity of the situation, but the show thrives on that drama.
Producers often feel the weight of expectations to showcase idyllic couples that resonate with the audience, occasionally coercing contestants into getting engaged. This pressure may lead to coaching for contestants on what to share and how to behave, including keeping certain individuals around for the sake of drama. Ultimately, while the show promotes a narrative of building genuine bonds, it may prioritize the show’s interests over the contestants’ emotional well-being.
The Bachelor airs on Mondays at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.
Source: Call Her Daddy
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