Interview by Lori Bizzoco. Written by Ann Luther.
On this week’s episode of Bachelor in Paradise, Jesse Kovacs escaped Tulum, Mexico, in his typical controversial fashion. The villainized cast member departed the reality TV show with regrets and without a relationship and love. In all the chaos of his exit — the accusations, the name-calling, the confrontations, and the yelling — it was difficult to understand just what happened in paradise and why. Luckily, we got an exclusive interview with Kovacs and heard his side of the story.
Related Link: ‘Bachelor in Paradise’ Contestant Jesse Kovacs Denies Threesome: “I Fell Asleep”
Reality TV Star Opens Up About Controversial Celebrity Hook-Up
We all know the magic of television editing can turn anyone’s character sour, but Kovacs testifies, “I feel like trying to explain what happened on the episode would be a cop-out. I can’t blame anything on editing.” He goes on, “There were certain things that were suggested that never happened, but all the statements made by me and others really were said.”
In his last moments on camera, Kovacs was accosted in his exit car by three heated women: Christy Hansen, Michelle Money, and Lacy Faddoul. The scene was intense. “I have no idea why they were upset after I left.” The San Diego native added, “I never wanted a drama-filled confrontation. I just wanted to leave.”
But we all know what he said in front of and outside of the confessional camera. After the show, the winemaker told us that he “never had the intention of being disrespectful,” but then he conceded, “I made some pretty stupid statements about Christy, and I feel horrible.” The 32-year-old admits that he called Hansen and apologized. “I acted like a dick, and Christy wanted to let me know.” He also “hashed it out” with Money post-show.
The style in which Kovacs went out was by no means gentlemanly, but he defends his actions. “I left as soon as I felt like my time was up. No connection was happening, and I didn’t want to waste any one’s time. And I know people probably think I already wasted every one’s time, but everything happened so fast.” He must have done something right, though, because he says he still talks to most of the guys. Plus, “Lucy [Aragon] and Michelle are still friends…I think.”
Related Link: Jesse Kovacs on ‘Bachelor in Paradise’ Controversy: “Guy Talk Isn’t Always Meant to be Shared”
The whole ordeal surrounding his celebrity hook-up was a lot to handle, but reflection brings both perspective and clarity. Kovacs wants everyone, especially his parents, to know that he’s sorry. In a statement to us, he explains: “To my Mom and Dad, I’m sorry you had to sit through that, and please stay off my Twitter for a while. I acted like a no class d-bag, and although all the things being said about me aren’t true, they are well-deserved.”
We look forward to what comes next for Jesse Kovacs, the Liquid Lounge co-owner, reality TV star, and self-proclaimed d-bag!
You can keep up with Jesse on Twitter @JesseAKovacs. Be sure to tune in to Bachelor in Paradise on Monday nights at 8/7c on ABC!
