Unveiling the Romance: Brayden Bowers and Christina Mandrell Confirmed as a Couple on 'Bachelor in Paradise' Finale
Bachelor Nation alums Brayden Bowers and Christina Mandrell astounded fans in the thrilling season 9 finale of 'Bachelor in Paradise' by unveiling their unexpected romance Find out how they sparked a connection that left viewers captivated
Brayden Bowers may not have found love on Bachelor in Paradise, but he has found love within the franchise. The 25-year-old surprised fans by revealing his relationship with fellow Bachelor Nation alum Christina Mandrell during the BiP season 9 finale on Thursday, December 7, as the show provided updates on each contestant.
A message on the screen announced, "Brayden is now dating Christina from Zach's season," followed by a heartwarming video of the couple. In addition to their romance, Brayden is also seen bonding with Christina's daughter, teaching her how to accessorize.
Christina, aged 28, made her first appearance on Zach Shallcross' season 27 of The Bachelor, which aired from January to March. Although she was eliminated during the third week, she opened up about her daughter, Blakely, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Blake Dennis.
Brayden sparked controversy on Charity Lawson’s season 20 of The Bachelorette, which ended in April, when he self-eliminated during the fourth week. After his short stint on the show, he sought love in Mexico during season 9 and quickly bonded with Kat Izzo (Zach’s season), but their relationship didn't last.
"I struggle with dating multiple people at the same time. Paradise was difficult because of dating multiple people at once and it makes it hard to truly get to know someone when you're pursuing five others." Brayden told Us in October. "I liked Kat and felt a connection so I focused on that. When Kat explored other options, I pursued a relationship with Rachel Recchia from The Bachelorette until Becca Serrano from Zach's season arrived and I ended things with Rachel to see where things would go with Becca."
Brayden explained to Us that while he understands Paradise has no strict rules, he personally abides by his own set of guidelines. "I can't expect others to follow my rules, but I hold myself accountable to them," he said.
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In the end, both Becca and Rachel self-eliminated, which meant Brayden wasn’t offered a rose and was sent home.
Before kicking off his connection with Christina, Brayden said Paradise was full of “hot and sweaty rose ceremonies,” telling Us that his journey on the show was “a wild ride.”
