Unveiling Clare Crawley's Heartbreaking Journey: The Real Story Behind her Toxic Relationship with Dale Moss

Clare Crawley and Dale Moss Scott Kirkland/Shutterstock; Andrew H. Walker/Shutterstock

During a recent episode of the "Ben and Ashley I Almost Famous Podcast," released on August 8, Clare Crawley reflected on her past relationship with ex-fiancé Dale Moss, describing it as "crushing" and unhealthy. She expressed how the relationship brought out her worst, and in various ways, it impacted her spirit and sense of identity as a woman.

Crawley, who became the oldest Bachelorette in the history of the franchise in 2020, made history once again when she was announced as the season 16 lead. It was on the first night that she formed a strong connection with Moss, 34, and they became engaged in less than two weeks. Although they briefly split and reconciled in early 2021, they ultimately ended their relationship for good in September.

Although Crawley did not mention Moss by name, she expressed how her happiness took a downturn after being on the show. She felt as though she was constantly seeking someone's love in various ways, which contributed to her feelings of unhappiness.

The relationship brought me down to a point where I didn't want to be, and it made me question myself," Crawley expressed. "I started to believe that I was demanding too much, and that I was a poor communicator. All of these thoughts plagued my mind."

Reflecting on the turbulent romance, Crawley shared that it temporarily paralyzed her, recalling the final day she spoke with Moss.

"I was informed that I would have to go bid farewell to my mother that day, as she was severely unwell," she disclosed, referring to her mother, Lilia, who battles with dementia. "In response, he callously stated, 'That's not my concern.' I pleaded with him to please stay with me during that difficult time."

In that instant, Crawley contemplated on the nature of their relationship and questioned why she was reduced to "pleading with this man to exhibit basic compassion."

Moss, on the other hand, had stated through his representative to We in October 2022 that he promptly flew to Sacramento upon hearing the news about Crawley's mother's health. According to the statement, Crawley blocked Moss' number and the only time he heard from her afterwards was through social media.

After breaking up with Moss, Crawley met her current husband, Ryan Dawkins, in the autumn of 2021, and she feels extremely grateful for him.

"He is incredibly kind and always there for me, even during my most difficult and challenging times," said Crawley, her voice filled with emotion.

In October 2022, Crawley and Dawkins made their engagement official, and they happily exchanged their vows this past February. The couple joyfully shared the news on July 12 that they are expecting their first child, a baby girl, through a surrogate.

"Since I met her, everything in my world has completely transformed. She is the love of my life, and I wish the world could see the incredible person that Clare is, just like I do," Dawkins shared exclusively with We in October 2022. "She is a remarkable woman, incredibly resilient, and brings so much positivity. I am deeply in love with our life together and filled with anticipation for what lies ahead."

Meanwhile, Moss has been in a relationship with Galey Alix for over a year.

"I believe that everyone's relationship is their own, and it's not for me to comment on," he said in February during an interview with We. He extended his warm wishes to Crawley and Dawkins, stating, "My attention is solely on my relationship, but I genuinely hope they have nothing but the best. Love is a wonderful experience, and it's truly amazing when anyone discovers it."