If you were up-to-date with Bachelor Nation gossip back in January 2025, then you probably remember Matt James and Rachael Kirkconnell’s shocking split. Announced first on Instagram with a cryptic post from the former “The Bachelor” lead, their breakup took fans, and Kirkconnell herself, completely by surprise.
But while the split was certainly memorable, it seems both the Season 25 lead and his winner have moved on to greater things.
Tyler Cameron Praises Exes Matt James and Rachael Kirkconnell
In an interview with the “Chicks in the Office” podcast recently, Tyler Cameron, a former “The Bachelorette” contestant and James’ longtime best friend, reflected on the former couple, and gave the world an update on how they’re doing now.
“There’s a custody battle happening right now,” he joked. “I’ve got every other weekend with Matt.”
According to Cameron, who’s gearing up to host HGTV’s “Bachelor Mansion Takeover” alongside Tayshia Adams, James and Kirkconnell have not only moved from their split, but have kept their friendships with Cameron no matter what.
“I think they’re both in their respective own lives now and I can be friends with Matt and I can be friends with Rachael, you know?” Cameron said, adding that Kirkconnell is “thriving” and “doing great.” As for James, his longtime best friend admitted he’s “in the best space he’s been in in a long time.”
“They’re both thriving, they’re both doing they’re own things and I can love them both and cheer for them both,” he said. “It does feel like mom and dad.”
James and Kirkconnell’s Split Was One of Bachelor Nation’s Messiest Moments
GettyAs a reminder, James first announced his split with Kirkconnell is a cryptic Instagram post. “Father God, give Rachael and I strength to mend our broken hearts,” he wrote in the caption. “Give us a peace about this decision to end our relationship that transcends worldly understanding.”
“Shower our friends and family with kindness and love to comfort us,” the prayer continued. “And remind us that our Joy comes from you, Lord,” he ended, adding a broken heart emoji.
The post not only took fans of the show by surprise, but blindsided Kirkconnell too. As it turns out, the two had decided to go their separate ways during a trip to Tokyo, and James posted the photo right before Kirkconnell boarded her plane home.
“It was definitely out of nowhere,” Kirkconnell said on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast shortly after their split, per Page Six. “He said that at the end of the day, there were just qualities about me that he worries about having in a wife.”
Prior to their split, James and Kirkconnell had been together for four years after reconciling after their season in early 2021.
