Katie Thurston's Graceful Reply to Online Criticism Regarding 'Bachelor in Paradise' Appearance
Former Bachelorette Katie Thurston gracefully addresses criticism regarding her cameo on 'Bachelor in Paradise' in the November 16 episode Discover how Katie responds to the feedback with poise and class
Katie Thurston's appearance on Bachelor in Paradise garnered attention not only from her ex Blake Moynes but also from the viewers.
In the November 16 episode of the ABC series, Katie, 32, arrived in Mexico with unclear intentions. She had an uncomfortable conversation with her ex-fiancé Blake, 33, about their breakup in 2021. Katie, who aspires to be a stand-up comedian, surprised everyone by announcing that she wasn't there to date but rather to host a roast for the contestants.
An internet troll criticized her for watching Bachelor in Paradise, calling it classless and tacky, and implying that it's the reason she is single. The troll also made derogatory remarks about her appearance and personality. In reply, Katie wished the person well and encouraged them to heal from any negativity in their life, hoping they find happiness.
Starting the roast, Katie teased Blake about the significant age difference between him and his current love interest, Jess Girod. "It's not shocking that Jess goes by 'Baby Jess.' Blake once insisted on being called 'Daddy' by me," she jokingly remarked.
In their earlier conversation on the episode, Katie and Blake reunited for the first time since their breakup in 2021.
"I forwarded you a series of voice memos," Katie informed Blake. "I'm unsure if you actually took the time to listen to them."
Blake conceded that he did indeed listen to Katie's messages. "There were a total of six distinct voice recordings, and I can vividly recall each one," he acknowledged. "The emotions conveyed in those voice memos were palpable, but at that particular moment, I was also feeling quite bitter, so I chose not to respond. It was after everything had transpired that I discovered you were involved in a relationship, which I must admit, didn't exactly thrill me. It felt like a painful blow."
During their reflective conversation, Katie expressed remorse for their severed connection following their breakup, saying, "I apologize for the way things unfolded." This sincere discussion provided Blake with some resolution as he tried to move forward. "I find it difficult to dwell on our past because I vividly recall the intensity of those moments and it unsettles me," he acknowledged. "Thus, I choose to avoid pondering over it."
Katie Thurston and Blake Moynes. ABC/Craig Sjodin
In the later part of the episode, Blake contemplated the impact of his conversation with Katie on his experience on BiP. He expressed to Jess, aged 24, that he believes he has truly experienced what love is on the show, but it seems like their connection is not progressing.
Blake made his first appearance in the Bachelor franchise in 2020 on the seasons of The Bachelorette featuring Clare Crawley and Tayshia Adams. One year later, he took another shot at finding love on Katie's season. During season 17, which aired in August 2021, Blake proposed to Katie. However, two months down the line, they made the decision to end their engagement.
"We have decided to part ways with love and respect for each other. We appreciate the shared moments and the journey we have experienced together this year. However, we have come to the realization that we are not compatible as life partners, and it is in our best interests to move forward independently. In October 2021, Katie and Blake shared identical posts on Instagram to announce this decision. We kindly ask for understanding and privacy as we navigate this transition. We both genuinely want the best for each other and appreciate your support in our choice."
"After one month of the separation, we revealed that Katie had started a new relationship with John Hersey. Interestingly, John was initially eliminated during week 2 of Katie's season. Unfortunately, Katie and John, aged 29, ended their relationship in June 2022."
Bachelor in Paradise airs on ABC Thursdays at 9 p.m. EST.
