During their six-month romance, Katie Thurston made the regrettable decision of gifting her then-boyfriend John Hersey with a new van. However, she has learned from her mistake and vowed never to repeat it again.
Becca Tobin, the host, asked why Thurston bought a new vehicle for Hersey, who is 29 years old. In response, the former Bachelorette explained what happened after they parted ways. She assured, "Don't worry, he eventually paid me back. However, it took quite a while since travel fans are quite expensive, you know!"
Thurston added that she will never again buy such an expensive gift for a man.
Thurston and Hersey first crossed paths during her season 17 of The Bachelorette. However, their romantic journey didn't kick off until October 2022, following her split from former fiancé Blake Moynes. Despite speculation, both Thurston and Hersey vehemently denied any allegations of infidelity toward Moynes during the early stages of their relationship. Unfortunately, their love story came to an end in June 2022.
"I truly enjoy sharing all the joyous and amusing moments with all of you. However, I must admit that it becomes increasingly difficult to share the moments of sadness. As mentioned by Katie previously, we have decided to end our relationship. This decision was not taken lightly and undoubtedly was a challenging one. I am grateful for all of you who have supported us throughout this journey. Without your support, we would not be where we are today."
Nearly two months later, Thurston revealed on Nick Viall's "Viall Files" podcast that Hersey had ended their relationship and she had even purchased him a travel van. "I allowed him to quit his job. I was willing to be whatever he needed me to be. Looking back, I realize that was not healthy or good," she stated in August 2022. "However, it is slightly offensive to think, 'I gave you my all,' and still hear, 'This isn't working out.'"
Thurston later disclosed that Hersey, who worked as a bartender and had dreams of becoming a pilot, was gradually repaying her for the van's expenses. During the time he was repaying her, Hersey used the van as his permanent living arrangement.
"When we ended our relationship," she commented on Tuesday, in response to podcast host Keltie Knight's observation that he appeared affluent in his Bachelorette promo picture, "he was literally residing in the van. He has since sold it. I'm not sure what he's up to now, but I wouldn't consider him wealthy."