The Bachelorette's Eric Bigger is apologizing for calling Rachel Lindsay's fiance, Bryan Abasolo, a "rebound" and "consolation prize."
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While Eric told People his comments about Bryan were misinterpreted, he's taking responsibility.
"I can own what I said," Eric, a 29-year-old personal trainer from Baltimore, told People.
"I was going off what I see, not what I know -- what I saw [in the finale] is what I spoke on. That's why I wanted to clarify that there is no ill will, no disrespect. I'm just calling what I saw. Forgive me, I apologize, but it's all love."
After Rachel selected Bryan, a 37-year-old chiropractor from Miami, FL, at the end of her journey to find love, he popped the question, and now the couple claims to be happily engaged and madly in love.
However, Rachel's breakup with Peter beforehand was emotional and excruciating, seemingly for both individuals involved and all the viewers watching from home. Rachel didn't want to let Peter go when it was time to say goodbye, and he collapsed to his knees upon realizing their relationship was really over.
"Honestly, from watching the show... I don't think she picked the right man in that moment," Eric confessed on The Ben and Ashley I: Almost Famous Podcast earlier this month after the finale aired.
"Bryan, I love him. He's my guy, he's cool, but I felt bad for him. It seemed like he was a rebound, you know? I could be wrong, but that's what it looked like."
During his interview with People, Eric insisted both Rachel and Bryan are well aware of the fact he's "honest" and candid.
"They both know me... I think at the same time, when we have our own opinions, we can be insensitive to people's feelings and thoughts. Me knowing them personally, I just want to say, I apologize if I offended anyone," Eric confessed.
In addition to calling Bryan a "rebound" for Rachel on Ben and Ashley's podcast, Eric also previously referred to the smooth charmer as a "consolation prize" during a separate interview on Hallmark Channel's Home & Family show.
Eric said at the time that Bryan appeared to finish in "second place."
RELATED LINK: 'THE BACHELORETTE' COUPLES NOW"[But] they have a connection for sure. I think it will last. They both come from families where the mom and dad have been together for more than 30 years," Eric said.
"They come from a foundation of committed relationships. I feel like anybody in their position, if they're willing to work, sacrifice, commit and love each other unconditionally, I think it'll work."
About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski
