As a new season of The Bachelorette approaches, one former contestant was notably absent from the reunion celebrating this year’s unprecedented lead, Taylor Frankie Paul.
Getty ImagesDuring an interview with Entertainment Tonight, reality star Gabby Windey explained why she did not attend the special gathering held ahead of the premiere of The Bachelorette. “I was out of town,” said Windey, 35. “I’ve just been so busy, so it is hard to make everything work. But that’s amazing and I am so happy for them to just get together again.”
Despite her absence, Windey expressed confidence in the new lead, saying that Paul “will crush it” during the reality show’s 22nd season. However, she was not the only notable absence during the lead-up to the new season.
The Other Former Bachelorettes That Didn’t Gather Before Taylor Frankie Paul Season
One of the alum who appeared only through a recorded message was Jenn Tran, who also offered virtual encouragement. “I’m so excited for you. In those moments where I was really pushed past my limits, that was when I discovered some of the most beautiful things about myself. And trust your heart, as cliche as that sounds.”
Another former star missing from the reunion was Jillian Harris, who instead sent a video message. “Hi Taylor, it’s Jillian Harris. I’m so happy for you,” she said. Harris offered advice with her trademark humor and spontaneity.
“I didn’t shave my legs on the very first date and we ended up having a pool party and I ended up on Jason Mesnick’s shoulders with hairy legs, so shave your legs and embrace the moment. Good luck, and I’m sending you tons of love from Canada.”
ABCSeveral other former leads also skipped the reunion, including Jen Schefft, Clare Crawley and Michelle Young. Crawley, 44, had previously explained why she was unable to appear in the special. “I was super sick. The producers asked me to come, and I thought about it since it would be nice to see all the ladies.”
Which Alums Accompanied Paul at the Pre-Premiere Gathering?
Ahead of her debut, ABC gathered former leads for a special episode, The Bachelorette: Before the First Rose. During this unique edition they offered advice to Paul as she prepares to search for love.
ABCNearly 20 former Bachelorettes attended the event. The attendees includes Ali Fedotowsky-Manno, Meredith Phillips, Kaitlyn Bristowe, Emily Maynard-Johnson, DeAnna Pappas, Desiree Siegfried, Trista Sutter, Rachel Lindsay, Hannah Brown, Ashley Hebert-Rosenbaum, Becca Kufrin, Andi Dorfman, JoJo Fletcher and Tayshia Adams.
