Natalie Lee, after breaking up with Shayne Jansen, discovered that reality TV stars are not the kind of people she is attracted to. During an episode of Deepti Vempati's "Out of the Pods" podcast on Monday, July 17, when asked if she has ever dated another reality star, Natalie replied, "I have. I can't disclose his name out of respect for him, but I have had a private relationship with another reality TV star. It was an intriguing experience, and I'm not sure how to describe it, but it happened."
Natalie, who appeared on season 2 of Love Is Blind on Netflix, shares that dating other reality stars creates a sense of security due to their ability to connect over shared experiences. She recalls the immense stress they faced when the show was released and the online scrutiny they endured, leading to feelings of self-consciousness. Understanding these struggles, having a partner who can relate to them is greatly appreciated, as they comprehend the complexities of being on a TV show.
However, Natalie is uncertain about dating another reality star or someone who is "popular on TikTok" in the future. Despite her own public persona, she confesses that her ideal type is someone who is more reserved and private, which can be challenging to find in the social media-dominated world we live in.
Natalie's mystery reality romance remains unidentified, but she previously stirred up dating rumors with Blake Moynes from Bachelor Nation in July 2022. The speculation arose after the two ventured on a trip to the Caribbean. However, a source later confirmed they were merely friends and had gone to the island for a conservation project.
Natalie initially gained attention when she and Shayne, aged 34, became engaged on the second season of Love Is Blind, which premiered in February 2022. Despite leaving Shayne at the altar during the season finale, the couple reignited their relationship after the show. However, their reconciliation was short-lived, as they ultimately decided to end things for good.
Natalie Lee, Shayne Jansen Ser Baffo/Netflix (2)
Natalie shared exclusively with Us in March 2022 that she and Shayne had attempted to revive their friendship after their wedding. However, their relationship ultimately ended after a few months. Despite this, Natalie currently maintains a friendly connection with him and wishes him well.
Nevertheless, a source later divulged that Natalie and Shayne's current relationship is strained, as they are not on good terms. Their lack of communication has extended to social media, where they have stopped following each other.
Shayne claimed on a March 2022 episode of "The Viall Files" podcast that he and Natalie had reconnected four times after the show. However, Natalie took to Instagram to clarify that they had only dated twice. She explained that they met up recently to discuss the possibility of getting back together, but ultimately decided not to pursue a relationship due to Shayne's behavior. A few days later, Natalie decided to close the door on any chance of reconciliation after discovering that Shayne had lied to her.
Earlier this year, Natalie accused Shayne of auditioning for Netflix's Perfect Match while they were still dating. The situation escalated when Shayne shared text screenshots where Natalie seemed to support his decision to go on the reality dating show. In one message, she wrote, "I really want you to enjoy life because this show for you is a once in a lifetime opportunity."
Natalie confirmed on Instagram that both she and Shayne were approached in September 2021 to join the series, but they declined due to their secret relationship. However, Natalie later discovered that Shayne did not actually refuse the offer and began the casting process. Additionally, Natalie clarified that the text messages shared by her estranged ex were from February 2022, not November 2021.
According to Natalie's Instagram post, while Shayne was filming the new show in February 2022, he repeatedly messaged her expressing his desire to leave midway through filming because he still had feelings for her. This was after they had seen each other for the first time since their breakup at the reunion show taping. Natalie revealed that despite knowing their relationship had little hope, she encouraged Shayne to continue filming due to his excitement for another reality TV show. She also attempted to mitigate the online backlash on his behalf through interviews and her social media presence.