Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

In the realm of reality TV love stories, Natalie and Shayne’s tale seems more akin to a rollercoaster ride than a romantic stroll through a meadow. Their journey, as genuine as it may have been, has taken some unexpected twists and turns, leaving us all quite intrigued.


Monica Davis is all about moving past her time in the pods.

Following the breakup with Stephen Richardson, the star of “Love Is Blind” season seven revealed their current relationship status. Given that their split was quite challenging for her, it’s clear that they are no longer close friends.

In an exclusive interview with TopMob News at the reunion for the Netflix show, the 37-year-old expressed that there has been a great deal of misunderstanding prior to the event due to various posts on social media, and perhaps Stephen attempting to portray an image of us being closer or more fashionable than we actually are.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’ve been reminiscing and sharing some nostalgic snapshots from my past TV stint on Instagram. Among these memories is a special one featuring me alongside Monica, reflecting on who I was – essentially embodying whatever the fans desired of me.

Yet, as Monica clarified, she intended to keep him responsible for their actions when they met up again following a while.

“We’re in a better place now,” she shared, “but we’re not good friends.”

Regarding the messages that ultimately caused their separation, Monica stands firm in her conviction about what she perceived.

She shared with TopMob her belief that Stephen had sent the messages due to his lack of commitment towards their future, and perhaps succumbing to temptation. To put it mildly, this might be an understatement.

Taking some time for personal reflection, I found myself open to connecting with the electrician, aged 34. I felt ready to engage in a meaningful dialogue with him.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

She mentioned that they didn’t have a clear resolution. When she discovered the messages, everything erupted unexpectedly, leaving her without any explanations. She was still unsure about what transpired.

After our split, we only had one dinner together, and since then, our relationship has been casual and superficial. I wouldn’t use the word ‘mutual respect,’ but there’s a certain level of politeness or grace between us.

As for her dating life now, Monica is raising her gold goblet high to a new chapter.

“I am dating someone now,” she told TopMob. “And I’m really happy.”

Keep reading to see where all the Love Is Blind couples are today.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Despite the renowned art dealer proposing to the author of “Keeping Well” after the love triangle involving Hannah Jiles, they eventually concluded that they worked best as friends following their brief engagement.

 

Brittany had earlier shared with People magazine, in an interview alongside Leo, that they didn’t have the necessary connection. “We initially discussed our compatibility,” she explained, “but as time passed during the trip, it became clear that the chemistry wasn’t there. We both felt this and communicated openly about it. It was a straightforward, respectful acknowledgement, not a difficult situation.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Monica discovered shocking explicit texts from another woman that Stephen had sent while they were engaged. This revelation promptly ended their relationship upon their return from Mexico. Following the incident, depicted in episode eight, Stephen apologized initially, yet later posted an apology on his social media platforms when the episode was broadcasted.

 

He expressed his hope that nobody’s day was spoiled by his presence on Instagram Stories on October 8, and if it was, he apologized for causing such inconvenience. He regretted that they had to start their day this way, but he would continue to care for them just the same.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

After Hannah and Nick stepped out of their pods, they experienced a variety of highs and lows, and indeed had numerous disagreements, to put it mildly. (“Equality is shown when one contributes as much as another.”)

 

Everything reached its climax when Hannah chose not to walk down the aisle with him. For Nick, their split was one of the most painful experiences he’s ever endured.

 

Since then, Hannah has admitted the show forced her to do some self-introspection.

During the October episode of “The Viall Files” podcast, she expressed that she’s gained valuable insights and identified areas for improvement. Specifically, she mentioned her straightforward nature but acknowledged her delivery could use some polishing. She emphasized that the way something is delivered can make all the difference.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

In a perfect union that seemed almost predestined in the realm of scientific discovery, Taylor and Garrett found an immediate connection from the start. Despite facing a minor hiccup when Taylor discovered Garrett had responded to his ex’s DM (Garrett clarified he confirmed he was engaged and ended the conversation), their story became a timeless tale reminiscent of the reality TV show “Love Is Blind.

The pair were still married at the Love Is Blind reunion in October 20224.

 Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Indeed, as you’ve understood correctly: Marissa and Ramses were among the strongest couples contending this season. However, Ramses decided to cancel their wedding following some doubts he developed along the way.

 

Marissa expresses enthusiasm about their shared future together and proposes marriage, to which her partner replies, ‘I get that falling in love involves taking a chance, I do.’

 

Yet, he pointed out the disparities between them, particularly their views on the military, might not bridge their differences sufficiently for a harmonious relationship. “From my personal experience of marriage and listening to others’ experiences,” he continued, “I believe love isn’t all it takes…I think there should be other factors that complement each other as well.

 

Marissa made an effort to move past their views, but when she realized it was all over, she couldn’t hold back her tears. Turning to him, she said, “I wish you hadn’t been here,” she expressed. “How could I have been so certain? And yet, you aren’t? It’s just terrible. I wanted you to pick me.” Referring to their separation, she added, “This is the most miserable day of my life.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Initially, Tyler and Ashley captivated many hearts as their casual romance blossomed on screen. Yet, a hiccup arose when Tyler revealed he had three children, a fact that Ashley referred to as his “sperm donor offspring.” (It’s a topic of debate online about the extent of his parental role, something he hasn’t publicly addressed.)

Fortunately, Ashley and Tyler managed to overcome that issue and didn’t just re-establish their connection, but they actually got married and became each other’s husband and wife.

Tyler, seated with Ashley following their wedding, shares, “Two months ago, we embarked on a journey that has transformed everything for us. Now, we have the privilege of living out the remainder of our lives side by side.

Regarding Ashley, she’s absolutely thrilled, expressing to him, “I’m eager for the everyday joys with you,” to which Tyler replies, “Small moments that bring a smile to her face, day by day, week by week, month by month, and before we realize it…

Ashley then guesses, “Kids?” to which he agrees and she confirms, “Yeah I’m fine with that.”

Their marriage was still going strong at the reunion episode in October 2024.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

By the time they returned to Washington D.C., it appeared that Alex and Tim had resolved their significant disagreement in Mexico, as they seemed closer than ever before. Notably, Tim had a heartfelt conversation with Alex’s father, which seemed to strengthen their bond for the future.

 

After Alex had a meeting with Tim’s family, they found themselves in another disagreement. Eventually, Tim decided to end their engagement by stating he didn’t want any further contact with Alex. Since then, both parties have voiced their views following the breakup, with Alex clarifying that the separation was not something they agreed upon mutually.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Following a couple of spats throughout the season, it seemed that Chelsea and Jimmy had buried their differences before their wedding, as they spent a fun day at an amusement park together.

To put it bluntly, I found myself standing there, utterly floored, as Jimmy declared an abrupt halt to our exhilarating journey – ending his engagement with a heartbroken Chelsea who could barely hide her shock.

Jimmy expressed his deep affection for Chelsea during their date, saying, “I’m deeply in love with you and I long for a relationship with you,” but added, “I sincerely hope it works out between us—but I just don’t feel ready to take that step of getting married yet. I can’t.

He clarified that they were boiling it down to a single point of contention, but in reality, it had been multiple significant matters that deeply affected him emotionally. (One such issue was when Chelsea disclosed Jimmy’s past relationship with his female friend.)

Following another round of discussions regarding their past relationships, Chelsea, with tears in her eyes, decided to depart permanently: “I had such high hopes for us.

The pair were both single during the March 2024 reunion.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Despite Clay’s reservations about marriage, stemming from his perspective on his father’s unfaithfulness, AD offered comfort, suggesting that their relationship was strong enough to overcome any challenges, and things appeared to be going smoothly for them.

In the moment when I was standing before the altar, ready to promise forever with a heartfelt “I do,” I chose differently and confided in AD that it would not be prudent for me to take those vows, as I wasn’t yet prepared for the commitment.

Cue the shock.

He assured AD, “I’ll make the effort for us both, and we’ll face this journey together. Regardless of what others may think, I understand that I’m not yet prepared for marriage, and you deserve nothing less than my best. If I can’t commit one hundred percent at this time, I won’t take you there until I am ready…I can’t give you an affirmative answer just yet.

It was a revelation that made AD declare through tears that the relationship was a waste of her “f–king time.”

Regarding Clay, he disclosed that both financial and emotional factors significantly influenced his decision to leave. He questioned himself, saying, “Am I a married man?” His response was negative. When asked if he was deeply in love, his reply was also negative.

At the gathering, Clay admitted that he had erred by wanting to date AD, yet she seemed hesitant about the possibility of reuniting.

AD openly admitted that she did have a few outings with her co-star Matthew Duliba following the completion of filming; however, they are currently not in a relationship.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

The sole couple from season six who agreed to an eternal bond was Amy and Johnny. Not only did they mark their fresh start with a stunning ceremony, but also effortlessly blended their families together, as Amy’s father affectionately expressed feeling like he had gained “several daughters” with the inclusion of Johnny’s sister.

As for Johnny, he too declared at his reception that his father-in-law was his “new dad.”

They were still married during the reunion episode.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Initially intense, Brittany and Kenneth’s love story lost momentum when they re-entered everyday life.

According to Brittany, things changed significantly after they returned to their shared hometown, Charlotte. In the pod, their relationship was extremely passionate and intense, but upon returning home, some of that intensity seemed to fade away.

Despite no longer being engaged, their friendship endures. As Brittany expressed during the reunion, “The connection between us may not be romantic anymore, but it’s destined to last forever.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase it like this: My own relationship hit a roadblock when I discovered my partner had rekindled connections with a fellow pod mate, Sarah Ann Bick, during a night out. The ensuing argument between us was tense, and in the end, I asked him to move on – literally, by telling him to find another path.

But instead of that, he went off to ride jet skis with Sarah Ann. 

At the gathering in March 2024, it was disclosed that Jeramey had been intermittently seeing Sarah Ann for about a year now – starting from when they were both on the show – but they have parted ways since then.

Laura is dating someone else, who she did not identify at the reunion.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

During season five, the couple faced several challenges, among them Izzy’s initial bond with Johnie Maraist and Stacy’s strict preferences regarding her lifestyle and dinnerware (no disposable plates). However, it was Izzy’s deception about his financial history that Stacy pointed out as a significant factor in her decision to forgo marriage.

Although Stacy didn’t utter “I do” at the altar, she nonetheless wished to continue the relationship with a heartbroken Izzy.

“We’re at different spots,” he told her. “It really breaks my heart.”

Regarding Stacy, she appreciated Izzy for helping her open up emotionally, yet she wasn’t completely confident about what lay ahead between them. She stated that being “fairly certain” wasn’t a commitment she felt comfortable making for the rest of her life.

Izzy is now dating surgical assistant Shelby Webb.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Season five’s sole success story came from arguably its most unlikely pairing. 

Following an initial hiccup when it emerged that Lydia was previously involved with Uche Okoroha, Milton’s fellow pod member, before the show commenced, the duo who share a fondness for geology were the only ones to successfully navigate the experiment while maintaining their relationship.

Lydia expressed her joy, saying that getting married was like fulfilling a long-held dream. She felt incredibly happy and contented because she now had everything she needed in her life. It’s as if she’s found where she truly belongs, and it feels comfortably secure.

As an enthusiast of thorough analysis, I’ve come to find that all the collected evidence points towards: this is indeed the best course of action.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

For this couple, opposites seemed drawn together throughout the entire season, that is, until they stood at the altar. Noticing Paul’s uncertainty, Micah urged him to voice his decision first, and unfortunately, Paul declined the proposal of marriage.

Micah expressed, “I’m in such a mess right now.” Regarding Paul, if he had proposed marriage, there’s no doubt in my mind that I would have enthusiastically accepted.

During the reunion gathering, Paul expressed remorse for his statement regarding Micah’s maternal abilities, which he had shared in a private conversation.

Paul clarified, “What I said was not fair to her, I believe a more accurate expression would be that I don’t envision us in parental roles.

After finishing the filming, the pair attempted a reconciliation briefly, but unfortunately, they couldn’t sustain their relationship. Later on, Paul stated that they parted ways permanently during his visit to Micah in Arizona.

In the novel “After the Altar“, it was disclosed that Paul had started seeing a new companion, who took pleasure in exploring new places and appreciating his culinary abilities. Eventually, he made their relationship Instagram official with lash technician Geneva Dunham.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Even though Kwame’s mother declined to attend the wedding and some might find his discussions with Micah questionable, given their interactions within the pods, Kwame and Chelsea still ended up among the three pairs who exchanged vows by the end of season four.

At the gathering, Chelsea disclosed that she had recently gotten acquainted with her husband’s mother. Meanwhile, Kwame tendered an apology to his wife and her kin, admitting that his conversations with Micah didn’t portray him in the best light.

The couple is living in Seattle with their beloved dog Rocky.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

It’s often said that love can be blind, but sometimes it takes a bit of time or even finding oneself with another woman to recognize a mistake in one’s choice. This is exactly what occurred when Zack first became engaged to Irina Solomonova, as their relationship ended during a trip to Mexico.

After requesting a second opportunity from Bliss, the duo bravely went against the statistics (as well as Bliss’ father’s expectations) and declared their love for each other at the altar. Incidentally, they didn’t just watch the first dance, but instead danced to Lee Ann Womack’s “I Hope You Dance,” a song that had become their bond in the pods.

Following the airing of the final episode, Zack posted a picture of the pair on Instagram accompanied by the caption, “Enduring Happiness.

The couple shared in November 2023 that they are expecting their first baby.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

It’s been quite a while since the pairing of Cameron Hamilton and Lauren Speed in season one felt this destined, isn’t it?

On their special day, the eldest pair in the study – Tiffany who was 36 and Brett who was 37 – exchanged their vows, despite an unexpected wardrobe issue with Brett. Specifically, his trousers didn’t fit well, but thanks to Lucia, the seamstress, the crisis was swiftly resolved! (Big ups to Lucia, you’re amazing!)

Since filming wrapped, Tiffany and Brett moved to Portland and are still perfect! Phew!

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

After SK said “I don’t” at their wedding, he and Raven seemingly parted ways.

Yet, once the cameras ceased recording, the ex-lovers found themselves together once more, as it turned out they had resumed their relationship during the reunion show for season three.

About a month past, my beloved partner and I made the difficult decision to part ways, given the ongoing legal issues stemming from accusations of infidelity against me. In a statement we shared on social media last November, my partner and I requested privacy as we navigated this challenging situation. We’ve cherished your support throughout our journey and ask that you continue to believe in us during these trying times.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

As a devoted admirer, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of despair witnessing Jackie make the unexpected decision to rekindle things with Josh Demas, the fellow pod-mate she felt a connection with, all while breaking off her engagement with Marshall.

During the gathering, Jackie clarified the sequence of incidents regarding the timeline of events. She explained, “I ended things with Marshall prior to our meeting at the café, and it seems like I was unfaithful. But let me assure you, I’m not a cheater.

Afterward, Jackie acknowledged the conclusion of her relationship with Marshall, stating that she can accept responsibility for her speech and behavior. Essentially, they were not destined to be together.

Regarding Jackie’s relationship with Josh, they were dating and cohabiting as depicted in “After the Altar.” However, in a September 2023 Instagram Live session, Jackie revealed that their romantic relationship had ended.

Regarding Marshall, he shared with TopMob that following the show, he had a brief encounter with another contestant named Kacia Clark. In his own words, “We made an effort,” Marshall said, “However, I decided it was best for me to keep some distance after that whole experience.

In the novel “After the Altar“, Marshall disclosed that he has been in a relationship with Dr. Chay Barnes for a year now, and his wish is to spend an eternity with her. Their engagement took place in December 2023.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Nancy and Bartise experienced one of the more turbulent weddings on “Love is Blind”, yet it wasn’t due to the bride or groom that things got heated.

In the final episode of season three, it was clear that Nancy was eager to tie the knot. However, Bartise expressed doubts about their relationship, which didn’t go down well with Nancy’s relatives. They openly criticized Bartise without any apologies.

From my perspective as a lifestyle advisor, Bartise and Nancy’s relationship has been a rollercoaster of friendship, with periods of closeness followed by distance. In his own words, he shared with TopMob that their bond has evolved from close friends to mere acquaintances, then to no communication at all, only to return to being friends once more.

In April 2023, Bartisse, a former contestant on “Perfect Match”, revealed the birth of his son named Hayden. However, Bartisse has not disclosed the identity of the baby’s mother in public yet.

Several months later, he debuted his new romance with Cait Vanderberry on Instagram.

Nancy is currently in a new romantic partnership, though she hasn’t disclosed the name of her beau in public yet.

 Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

At the end of the season, spectators witnessed the wedding ceremony of Alexa and Brennon, surrounded by their cherished ones.

With touching sincerity, Alexa expressed, “You bring joy, stimulate my mind, and above all else, you fill me with happiness.

In January 2024, the couple made public their happy news of an upcoming birth, and by July, they had joyfully welcomed their newborn daughter, Vienna Ziva Lemieux, into their lives.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Well, we can’t say we’re surprised by this breakup.

During their romantic relationship, there were frequent misunderstandings between them, leading to numerous disagreements. Despite reaching the wedding ceremony, Zanab expressed her feelings by saying, “You’ve shown disregard for me; you’ve offended me; you’ve criticized me. And to be honest, you alone have destroyed my self-worth.

Cole later reflected on their tumultuous relationship.

He shared with TopMob News that despite encountering rough patches, we were managing and discovering calmer seas. He expressed hope that we could carry on, even if our wedding wasn’t on that particular day.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Colleen and Matt successfully exchanged vows in the season three finale.

In the midst of ups and downs, I found myself standing before an altar with unwavering certainty, hand in hand with my partner. And as we exchanged our heartfelt vows, there was nothing but pure joy echoing between us as we declared our eternal commitment to each other.

Colleen explained to TopMob News why she decided to proceed with the wedding: “As soon as he started crying and snorting, I thought, ‘That’s my partner.’ So I knew right then and there that I would definitely say yes when I saw him.

And for those wondering, Colleen confirmed, “A year-and-a-half later, we’re very, very happy.”

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

During the season finale, Sal wasn’t able to say, “I do.”

In an TopMob News interview, he revealed that he was single after filming.

He asked, ‘Are we considering dating in the future?’ I’m not sure about the strategy. I believe the most effective approach might be to avoid online dating platforms.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

As we know, Deepti and Shake’s time on the show did not end with a happily ever after. 

It appears that Sunny, Deepti’s brother, and Hina Merchant Vempati have been engaged in a public dispute with Shake on Instagram, following Deepti’s announcement to TopMob News that she is now single. Their joint Instagram post reads: “Shake, buddy, you’re acting like a fool.” They criticize him for making insensitive and embarrassing comments about Deepti’s life.

They continued, urging Shake to “stay the f–k away” from their sister.

Looks like Shake will be heading to his Nobu reservation alone! 

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

Despite Natalie and Shayne not getting married during their time on the show, Natalie assured TopMob that the love stories portrayed were entirely sincere.

Natalie clarified, “It isn’t like a reality show. It’s the genuine depiction of our actual lives, authentic emotions, and true connections.

This is why Natalie felt deeply wounded when it seemed that Shayne had consented to appear in the spinoff series, “Perfect Match“, despite their efforts to mend their relationship after their failed marriage.

She disclosed on Instagram that he frequently messaged her expressing a desire to quit during the shoot because he hadn’t gotten over his feelings for her after our reunion show recording, which was our first encounter since our split. However, I motivated him to carry on with the filming.

After completing the filming of “Perfect Match,” Natalie explained that she reconnected with Shayne, but eventually decided it wasn’t right for them to get back together.

Simultaneously, Shayne had a short-lived romance with Chloe Veitch, who was previously seen on “Too Hot to Handle”. Their connection blossomed during the reality show “Perfect Match”.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

On August 15, 2022, Danielle chose to initiate a divorce proceeding in a Chicago court, over a year since their wedding ceremony that took place during the finale of their marriage.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

On August 17th, 2022, they shared a joint announcement on Instagram, saying “After careful consideration, it is with a heavy heart that we inform you we have chosen to part ways and initiate divorce proceedings. Although our paths are now diverging, we retain deep affection for one another. Reaching this decision was not simple, but we understand that our lives are taking different turns, and that’s acceptable. We wish each other nothing but the very best.

Love Is Blind’s Monica Denies Stephen’s Claim They’re Pals After Split

In the “After the Altar” spinoff, which premiered in September 2022, the pair acknowledged that their friendship had grown into a romantic relationship. However, Kyle revealed only a few days after the special’s release that they had parted ways since the show was filmed.

And in April, Kyle proposed to his girlfriend Tania Leanos, whom he did not meet in a pod.

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2024-10-31 05:22