Exclusive! Matt James and Rachael Kirkconnell Address Breakup Rumors, Unveil Surprising Twists About 'Golden Bachelor' and More!

Rachael Kirkconnell and Matt James Courtesy of Rachael Kirkconnell/Instagram

Rachael Kirkconnell's recent vacation without Matt James led to speculation that the couple had ended their relationship. However, Kirkconnell addressed these rumors in an interview with We, stating that they have faced many challenges together and are unfazed by outside opinions. She acknowledged that people may have been concerned for their relationship out of love and a genuine liking for them as a couple. Kirkconnell found it both flattering and slightly overwhelming how invested some people were in their relationship, even when they had only been apart for a short period of time.

James later disclosed that his mother, Patty, had similar concerns to those of their followers.

"When I return home without Rachael, my mom instantly asks, 'What's the matter? Where's Rachael?'" he informed Us. "And I respond, 'She had to go back home to visit her own family!' She has her own mother, father, brother, and sister in Atlanta."

Kirkconnell expressed gratitude for Patty's concerns, stating, "I truly adore your mom. I believe she acts that way because we have an incredible time when we're in each other's company."

Regarding Patty, there were previous rumors of her involvement in The Golden Bachelor, ABC's upcoming spinoff catering to senior participants. Prior to confirming their support for the show's lead, Gerry Turner, Kirkconnell and James remained elusive in their response to Us.

Gerry Turner ABC/Brian Bowen Smith

James playfully teased, "I always get asked that question, you know, the one where people say, 'If you find out something, just tell me!'"

Kirkconnell confidently stated, "Honestly, we have no idea. We genuinely don't know if she's involved or not. I'm eagerly waiting to see what unfolds. I have high hopes for Gerry. He appears to be the ideal choice for the Bachelor. I can't wait to tune in...Whether it's on television or in real life, I hope Patty finds love."

James came to the conclusion that his main desire is for his mother to experience happiness.

Despite his previous problems with the franchise, the former Bachelor and Kirkconnell are currently among the five successful couples from the original show. (The Bachelor's 27th season aired earlier this year, and the Bachelorette's 17th season is currently ongoing.)

Kirkconnell expressed that Matt is truly her closest companion, as they approach three years together. She believes that their shared life is incredibly enjoyable and that everything they do is enhanced by being together. She loves their dynamic and believes that they bring out the best in each other, making them both better individuals. She also believes that they have a lot to learn from one another.

James agreed, stating that he is dating his best friend, which makes everything even more enjoyable. Being able to experience life with that person is a dream come true for him. They constantly remind themselves of how fortunate they are.

Kirkconnell and James playfully jest about their forgetful encounter on a reality show, but they continue to face inquiries from Bachelor Nation about their engagement plans. Despite James's decision not to choose a Neil Lane diamond during the 2021 finale, he remains unperturbed by both the discussions surrounding their breakup and future engagement. James acknowledges that their open sharing of every aspect of their lives invites curiosity, and he appreciates the audience's interest in remaining connected and informed.

Kirkconnell acknowledged that she understands the anticipation for an engagement, given that fans have been waiting since the show's finale. However, she also wants to provide some perspective, comparing their relationship to a normal one that has been dating for almost three years. In that context, she believes that it is not unusual to not be engaged yet. Kirkconnell feels that they are taking all the necessary steps to progress their relationship.

The couple revealed that dessert played a significant role in their connection during the filming of The Bachelor in 2020. This shared love for treats is what makes their collaboration with Baskin-Robbins a perfect match. Additionally, Kirkconnell's enthusiasm for Marvel also helped her win James' affections.

On Tuesday, James and Kirkconnell attended Baskin-Robbins' inaugural NYC summer rooftop event, where they had the opportunity to try out the brand's latest flavors, OREO MEGA STUF Cone and Cappuccino Blast, while mingling with the attendees.

Kirkconnell expressed her preference for Cappuccino, stating that it combines the flavors of Oreo ice cream and cold brew in an unbeatable way. James, on the other hand, enthusiastically mentioned his excitement for the Oreo waffle cone. He noted that experiencing something new is rare for him unless he engages in adrenaline-fueled activities like bungee jumping.

Kirkconnell interjected James briefly to make a pact against bungee jumping before proceeding, "And upon seeing a waffle cone featuring genuine Oreo cookies, I immediately knew I had to give it a try. And now, having tasted it today, there's a delightful crunch from both the Oreo and the waffle cone. It's truly remarkable."