Devin Strader from Season 21 of *The Bachelorette* is attempting to manage the fallout following the finale with Jenn Tran. In an effort to present his perspective, he shared—then quickly deleted—private text messages exchanged with Jenn. During the “After the Final Rose” segment of the show, Jenn tearfully disclosed that Devin had ended their engagement about a month prior, doing so over a phone call. She recounted that Devin confessed he no longer loved her and had never intended to get engaged.
“I wanted to tell you all of this in person because you deserved more than a phone call.”
In a now-removed Instagram story, captured by X user @kimchik1tty, Devin shared these private texts. Jenn questioned why Devin wished to speak in person, to which he replied, “I wanted to tell you all of this in person because you deserved more than a phone call.” He further explained that he didn’t want to surprise her and preferred an in-person conversation, but she “forced it out” of him.
Devin Strader Discloses Jenn Tran’s Desire to End the Relationship
Devin Had Reservations About the Engagement
Within the messages, Jenn remarked that Devin seemed resolute and uninterested in discussing the matter, prompting Devin to reply, “Just last week Friday you said we should break up. You’ve said that before.” He admitted that her words struck him deeply as he had been grappling with doubts about their relationship. Devin expressed that neither was truly happy and acknowledged that Jenn deserved better. Jenn conceded she had mentioned breaking up, “and I was emotionally charged when I said that and I obviously didn’t go through with that.”
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Releasing private exchanges with Jenn was undoubtedly a misstep on Devin’s part, a fact he seemed to recognize by deleting them. His intention was to demonstrate that Jenn had also contemplated ending things, but this could backfire. Jenn had told Devin during the finale that it wasn’t his change of heart that wounded her, but his actions following their breakup. This included following Maria Georgas on Instagram and partying with fellow contestant Jeremy Simon in New York City. Such behavior was inexcusable.
Jenn also revealed that Devin concealed his doubts for two months while she invested wholeheartedly in their relationship. Her profound hurt was palpable, particularly during the segment when the proposal was aired. Devin offered little defense during the finale, and sharing these texts was not an effective strategy to convey his side, especially since they failed to address his post-show conduct. Hopefully, Devin will learn from his missteps.
*The Bachelorette* can be streamed on Hulu.
Sources: @kimchik1tty/X, Devin Strader/Instagram
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