Clayton Echard might have embarked on a new journey of love after his tenure on "The Bachelor." Echard, who once vied for Michelle Young's affections during Season 18 of "The Bachelorette" and later shone as the lead in Season 26 of "The Bachelor," subtly hinted at a blossoming romance during his January 22nd appearance on "The Ben and Ashley I Almost Famous Podcast."
The topic arose when Echard was queried about his Season's top three contestants: Susie Evans, Rachel Recchia, and Gabby Windey. Recall, viewers witnessed Echard and Evans disclose their relationship status on "After the Final Rose," post his decision not to propose to Recchia and Windey during the season finale. Subsequently, Evans and Echard announced their separation in a joint Instagram post in September 2022.
When asked about his current standing with Evans, Echard clarified that they had both realized they "weren't destined to be together again." He elaborated, "Once our bond was severed, we acknowledged our significance in each other's lives during a tumultuous time. She assisted me in personal growth. However, post our breakup conversations and the emotional dust settled, it became apparent that we weren't each other's lifelong partners."
Given that Windrey (a portmanteau of Windey and Recchia) is now in a relationship with Robby Hoffman, the conversation shifted to Recchia. Co-host Ben Higgins inquired, "Do you and Rachel remain in touch? Is there still potential for a spark between you two?" referencing a joint TikTok they posted in February 2023.
Echard responded, "I don't maintain regular contact with her. I'm unsure of her current endeavors. But I do hear whispers. People often ponder if we could have been a perfect match. However, I believe such speculations will soon cease. I'll leave it at that."
When Higgins and his co-host Ashley Iaconetti pondered if Echard was involved in a new relationship, he chose to be cryptic. "I won't unveil any surprises today," he said. "I might be talking to someone, in a relationship, or perhaps not. Various possibilities exist. Clarity will emerge."
He further noted, "Let me put it this way: people will receive an answer soon. Regarding my subtle hints, the answers will become unmistakable at some point. That's all I'll say for now."
