Why Weren’t Clay & Nicole at the ‘Bachelor in Paradise’ Reunion?

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ABC

There was plenty of drama to keep the Bachelor in Paradise reunion show interesting on Tuesday, September 17, but we still couldn’t help but notice two very significant people missing in action: Nicole Lopez-Lovar and Clay Habor.

The pair, who decided to call it quits in the final episode of Season 6, weren’t included in the lengthy reunion show which featured updates on all of the other final couples. So what happened? Well, according to the athlete, they attended the reunion, but ABC didn’t air their footage!

In the finale, Clay decided to not put a ring on Nicole’s finger, telling her that he simply just didn’t have strong enough feelings. Completely blindsided, Nicole, who has since moved on with someone new, stormed off the beach in tears. There weren’t too many hard feelings for Clay, though, as we saw him admit in his final interview that he had plans to stop by a “pub” on his way home. Yikes.

After not getting any airtime during the reunion, Clay took to Instagram to send a final message to his fans. “I took this opportunity very seriously and looking back I could have done things differently,” he wrote, before taking an ever-so-subtle jab at his ex.

 

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Paradise, where to start.. I can honestly say I learned so much about myself and even though it was such an emotionally difficult time I’m glad I experienced it. . I could have done so many things better throughout this journey but I believe everything happens for a reason and it helped me to grow as a person. I made some memories that will last a lifetime and friends that will last just as long. I want to thank everyone for the support it means a lot. . I took this opportunity very seriously and looking back I could have done things differently. Unfortunately I didn’t see myself getting engaged after 16 days of exclusive dating and I wanted to be 100% truthful with my feelings even though I knew there was a chance my truth wouldn’t get the outcome I wanted. I wish nothing but the best for Nicole and understand her position as well. Also I have nothing but love for my paradise cast members and will always look back at my time on that beach fondly. #bachelorinparadise #bachelornation

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“Unfortunately I didn’t see myself getting engaged after 16 days of exclusive dating and I wanted to be 100 percent truthful with my feelings even though I knew there was a chance my truth wouldn’t get the outcome I wanted. I wish nothing but the best for Nicole and understand her position as well. Also I have nothing but love for my paradise cast members and will always look back at my time on that beach fondly.”

Nicole also made her voice heard through her Instagram page, with a subtle jab of her own.

 

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First and foremost, congratulations to my amazing friends and TV family who found love in Paradise. ❤️ This is what Paradise is all about. We put our lives on hold for the chance of finding someone who completes us. Yes, this show accelerates every relationship — but we all embark on this wild, vulnerable, and unconventional journey knowing it’s worth it. True love always is. While there is so much I want to share with you all, there is a message that I need to share that is far more important than me. Ladies, we don’t have to put up with anything less than wonderful. We are worthy of someone’s complete and all-encompassing respect, time, love, honesty, and energy. When a man’s actions don’t line up with his words, when a man’s promises fall flat, and when a man dares to string you along (whether it’s for 16 days or for 8 months) knowing very well he does not see a future with you — we are better off on our own than loving a man who doesn’t know what he has when he has it. I know it’s scary, but sometimes, the bravest thing we can ever do is love ourselves first. If that means to run, then run. I went into this experience with my heart wide open. I knew I could be setting myself up for heartache. But if there’s anything this past year on The Bachelor and Bachelor in Paradise has taught me, it’s that I’m stronger than I give myself credit for. I don’t regret a single moment. I love you all so much ❤️❤️❤️ and remember — we are ALL worthy of our own happy ending. Whether that be with a partner or not. ‘Cause we’re our own soulmates. Xo, Nicole

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“Ladies, we don’t have to put up with anything less than wonderful,” she wrote. “We are worthy of someone’s complete and all-encompassing respect, time, love, honesty, and energy. When a man’s actions don’t line up with his words, when a man’s promises fall flat, and when a man dares to string you along (whether it’s for 16 days or for 8 months) knowing very well he does not see a future with you — we are better off on our own than loving a man who doesn’t know what he has when he has it. I know it’s scary, but sometimes, the bravest thing we can ever do is love ourselves first. If that means to run, then run.”

The Bachelor, Season 24 Premiere, Monday, January 6, 2020, 8/7c, ABC