Georgia Love and Lee Elliott, the beloved couple from 2016's season of The Bachelorette, have announced their separation after nearly ten years together. On February 28, 2025, they took to social media to reveal the "incredibly difficult decision" to part ways after four years of marriage.
"After nine wonderful years together, including four as husband and wife, we have made the incredibly difficult decision to lovingly part ways," wrote Love, 35, and Elliott, 43, in their joint Instagram post. They emphasized the special nature of their relationship and how they will always cherish the memories, love, and laughter they've shared.
"There is no drama, no bad blood. Just two people who have grown in different directions...," they stated, affirming mutual respect and care for each other. They also expressed gratitude for the privacy requested as they navigate this new chapter apart.
The relationship, which blossomed on the popular reality dating show, had been subject to speculation about their split for several months. Fans began to question the couple's status around late 2024 when Love was spotted on several occasions without her wedding ring. This led to increased scrutiny of their relationship, especially as Love took a trip to New York over the Christmas and New Year period without Elliott.
Although they were not seen together for months, the couple was reportedly living under the same roof at their home in Melbourne as recently as late February. There were signs of strain as they both attended events separately and enjoyed various outings with friends.
Sources close to the couple shared insights, noting, "The time apart could be good for them and I think they both have had an opportunity to see what life would be like if they did officially separate." These insights are reiterated with statements from fans expressing concern over Love's lack of response to questions about Elliott's absence, and her frustration at the speculation surrounding their relationship.
Fans were quick to comment on social media, with one asking, "Where is Lee?" prompting Love's candid reply: "He's at home, I'm here visiting my friend." This interaction not only hinted at potential issues but allowed her followers to speculate even more about their failing marital bliss.
The path to their split began back when they first fell for each other on the show, where Love chose Elliott as the winner among the contestants vying for her heart. Their connection grew over the years, culminating in engagement in 2019 and their marriage at Frogmore Creek Winery outside Hobart, Tasmania, just two years ago. Cancellation of their planned wedding ceremony in Italy the previous year due to COVID-19 restrictions left them with the charming ceremony they shared instead.
Since their marriage, fans had seen numerous public appearances together, always showcasing the love they portrayed on-screen. Their home life included moving to their $1.3 million townhouse located in Hampton East, Melbourne, which signified their steps toward building a future together. Yet, the doting public exterior masked the brewing turmoil behind the scenes.
Despite the public nature of their relationship, Love and Elliott made it clear they maintained private lives full of their individual desires and ambitions. The couple’s joint statement, though emotionally charged, also highlighted their intention to sustain friendship based on their deep respect and care.
Love's response to rumors around their impending separation just weeks prior to their announcement demonstrated the mixed feelings surrounding their situation. "If I had anything to tell you all, I would do so myself," she declared, and yet it seems this sentiment was not enough to shield their relationship from the scrutiny of eager fans and media.
Looking back, Georgia Love's evolution from newsreader to reality TV star and her relationship with Lee Elliott became part of their compelling narrative before this unexpected chapter unfolded. Their fans will look back on their love story as one filled with hope, laughter, and significant moments, even as it turns to parting after nearly ten years.
The couple, having built storied experiences together, now transitions to their next phase as individuals. Both look toward the future with optimism, grateful for the bonds formed and experienced shared, even as they navigate this new phase of life apart.