Rachael Kirkconnell Addresses Claims She Was Spotted With Matt James in NYC Following Breakup

Rachael Kirkconnell has clarified that she and Matt James did not rekindle their relationship, despite rumors circulating over the weekend, US Weekly reported. An Instagram gossip account, Deux Moi, reported that Kirkconnell, 28, was seen with James, 33, in New York City on Sunday, January 27.

One post claimed: "Just left my apartment in Kips Bay and walked past Matt James and Rachael Kirkconnell." This sparked numerous comments from Bachelor Nation fans. However, Kirkconnell quickly responded, dismissing the sighting: "Hmm wasn’t me lol."

Earlier this month, Matt James revealed that he and Kirkconnell had ended their four-year relationship. He expressed his feelings on Instagram, asking for strength to cope with their separation.

"Father God, give Rachael and I strength to mend our broken hearts," he wrote on January 16. "Give us peace about this decision to end our relationship that transcends worldly understanding." The post included a nostalgic photo from Kirkconnell's season on The Bachelor, which aired in 2021. Although James awarded Kirkconnell his final rose, their relationship faced challenges, especially after her past racially insensitive social media activity emerged. They initially split before the After the Final Rose special in March 2021 but reconciled soon after.

While many fans were surprised by the news, an insider told Us Weekly that the split had been expected.

"The split may seem abrupt, but this has been brewing for a while. It was a long time coming," the source stated. "Matt just couldn’t commit to her."

The source added that it became increasingly difficult for Kirkconnell to trust James as their relationship progressed. They both felt upset about the breakup, but Kirkconnell is "ready to move on." The insider noted that she believes this decision is for the best.

Discrepancies in their relationship often stemmed from a discussion about marriage. Kirkconnell wanted to settle down, while James hesitated.

"Rachael really wanted to get married, and they were not on the same page," the insider mentioned. "She felt like she was waiting around, and he would never give her what she wanted."

In a previous interview with Us Weekly, James discussed his intentions regarding their future.

"We’re doing great. I feel like when you feel pressure, it’s when you don’t wanna do something," James shared in June 2024. "I’ve never really felt pressure [to get engaged] because it’s something that I’ve always wanted to do. It’s something that we’re gonna do at some point."

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