Rachael Kirkconnell & Matt James
Status: Split
In the years since Matt and graphic designer Rachael Kirkconnell left his 2021 season together (then briefly split and eventually reunited), they’ve faced many a breakup rumor.
“I think everybody needs to take a break from social media,” the former Bachelor exclusively told E! News at a July 18 Baskin-Robbins event. “Our lives are lived so much in front of our phones that when anybody steps out of being on their phone 24/7, people think it’s the end of the world.”
In fact, Matt said marriage remains the end-game for the pair.
“I think the good thing about our relationship is we go at our own pace,” the First Impressions: Off Screen Conversations With a Bachelor on Race, Family, and Forgiveness author told E! News in May 2022. “And you’ve seen with other couples—they force the engagement and they’re not together anymore. So, I think what we got is a working recipe and we’re gonna get there.”
But less than three years later, Matt announced he and Rachael split.
“Father God, give Rachael and I strength to mend our broken hearts,” the reality star wrote on Instagram Jan. 16, 2025 alongside a throwback photo of them on The Bachelor. “Give us a peace about this decision to end our relationship that transcends worldly understanding. Shower our friends and family with kindness and love to comfort us. And remind us that our Joy comes from you, Lord.”