TIPSLIFEHACKS

Clayton Echard’s return to reality TV has been anything but smooth. The former Bachelor star recently appeared on season 3 of Netflix’s Perfect Match, where he reunited with his ex-girlfriend, Rachel Recchia. However, the reunion was short-lived, ending in tears for Rachel just 24 hours after they paired up. Now, in an exclusive interview with People, Clayton is opening up about the dramatic split and defending his decision.

The reunion was a surprise to many viewers, given Clayton’s controversial season of The Bachelor where he famously gave his final rose to both Susie Evans and Michelle Young (and almost a third contestant!). Rachel, who was the Bachelorette in the following season, seemed cautiously optimistic about a second chance with Clayton. They initially connected well, enjoying a comfortable and seemingly genuine connection.

However, the spark quickly fizzled. According to Clayton, the decision to end things wasn't impulsive. “It wasn’t something I took lightly,” he told People. “I really did try to make it work. But after a day, I realized it wasn’t going to be what I was hoping for. It was a tough conversation, but I knew it was the right choice for both of us.”

The split played out dramatically on screen, with Rachel visibly heartbroken. Viewers were quick to criticize Clayton's actions, accusing him of once again causing emotional distress. But Clayton maintains that he acted with integrity. “I’m not going to stay in something that isn’t authentic to me,” he explained. “I owe it to myself and to Rachel to be honest about where I’m at.”

He also addressed the potential awkwardness of filming the show knowing their history. “We both knew going into it that it was a risk,” Clayton acknowledged. “But we were both willing to explore it. And ultimately, we realized that we’re better off as friends.”

While the reunion didn’t result in a rekindled romance, Clayton says he has no regrets. “I’m proud of how I handled the situation,” he stated. “It was a difficult decision, but I stood by it. And I think Rachel understood that I was coming from a good place.”

The Perfect Match season continues to unfold, with plenty more relationship drama to come. But for Clayton and Rachel, it seems their chapter together has definitively closed. Whether viewers will fully accept Clayton's explanation remains to be seen, but he’s standing firm in his decision and hoping for understanding.