In a surprising revelation from Season 21 of *The Bachelorette*, Devin Strader has claimed that he was Jenn Tran’s second choice, backing up his statement by releasing private text messages exchanged between them. During the season finale, Jenn proposed to Devin, and he reciprocated with a proposal of his own. However, in the “After The Final Rose” episode, Jenn disclosed that Devin had ended their relationship over the phone approximately a month before the finale aired.
“I wasn’t her first choice,” Devin remarked.
In an Instagram Reel, Devin shared numerous private text messages with Jenn, though some were redacted for privacy. The most startling revelation came when Devin said, “I had to watch myself play second to someone else, and that’s okay. We’ve moved on from that. I wasn’t her first choice.”
Devin mentioned that he doesn’t blame Jenn for her feelings towards runner-up Marcus Shoberg, but he was unaware of these feelings during their relationship. He explained that his decision to end things with Jenn was “reaffirmed” by what he discovered.
Devin Apologizes for Following Maria Georgas on Instagram
Devin Claims He Doesn’t Know Maria
During “After The Final Rose,” Jenn expressed her hurt over Devin’s decision to follow her former friend, Maria, on Instagram after their breakup. Devin clarified that he followed Maria the week of August 14 while following several Bachelor Nation accounts. He admitted, “Regardless, it was an ill-advised decision on my part. I made an emotionally charged decision, and Jenn and I were in a fight at the time.” Devin noted that he has since apologized and stated that he doesn’t know Maria and will not follow her in the future.
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While it’s understandable that Devin wanted to share his side of the story, given his limited comments during “After the Final Rose,” sharing his private texts with Jenn might not have been the best choice. Bachelor Nation already views Devin as a villain, and this act could only reinforce that perception. It was likely difficult for Devin to watch Jenn declare her love for Marcus before telling him, especially after Jenn had expressed the challenge of conveying her feelings to Devin.
Season 21 of *The Bachelorette* concluded with one of the most unexpected and heartrending finales. It was painful to witness Jenn in tears during the proposal, especially with Devin sitting beside her. As Jenn moves forward with her life, competing in Season 33 of *Dancing With The Stars*, Devin might benefit from keeping a low profile if he wishes to shed his villainous image. Although he enjoys speaking his mind, having voiced his perspective, it might be wise for him to stay out of the spotlight for now.
Source: Devin Strader/Instagram
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