The Bachelor’s Zach Shallcross Says Finale Was “Really Painful”

Will you accept this olive branch?

Zach Shallcross had the difficult decision of choosing between Kaity Biggar and Gabi Elnicki in the season finale of The Bachelor on March 27. While his proposal to Kaity and breakup with Gabi took place six months ago in Thailand, Zach is finally reflecting on the hurt he caused both women in real time.

“It’s very tough seeing Gabi very emotional and in pain,” he told The Hollywood Reporter in an interview out March 29. “My actions of that overnights week caused a lot of pain for all the women involved, and that was the last thing I ever intended and wanted. And seeing her upset with how everything played, rewatching it, I completely understand.”

Zach infamously broke his no-sex rule with Gabi during the season 27 Fantasy Suites week and subsequently shared that news with host Jesse Palmer—and the entire nation. While he didn’t offer many condolences during After the Final Rose, Zach is now taking accountability.