We knew the Bachieverse was small but we didn’t realise it was this small!
Yesterday, Channel 10 finally revealed James “Jimmy” Nicholson, 31, will be our 2021 Bachelor.
Naturally it didn’t take long for fans to track the pilot down on socials and many were quick to point out Jimmy already boasted a slew of A-list followers including actor Hugh Sheridan and MAFS‘ Mikey Pembroke.
But it was Bachelor runner-up Bella Varelis’ seemingly innocent follow on Jimmy’s page that set tongues wagging.
And now, a new report from The Wash has confirmed Bella and Jimmy briefly dated last year after her stint on Locky Gilbert‘s season of the series.
“Hahaha yeah we were chatting and went on a couple dates towards the end of last year, we got set up by a friend,” Bella, 26, told the entertainment website.
“He’s a really lovely human, definitely deserves to find love,” the Sydney-based influencer added.
In fact, Bella confirmed the pair are still on good terms and remain in touch.
While the stunning brunette’s brief dalliance with Jimmy didn’t work out, she went on to find love with photographer and influencer, Will Stokoe.
The smitten new couple confirmed their romance last month with Bella writing on Instagram: “Cat’s out of the bag… thought it was about time you all officially met.”
Meanwhile Jimmy says he’s ready for the biggest adventure of his life – finding love on national television.
“I am a big believer in embracing any opportunity that presents itself, especially if it has the potential to change your life for the better,” Jimmy said of his new gig.
“The journey ahead will be one of the most challenging experiences that I have ever undertaken, however I am very excited to meet someone that I could potentially spend the rest of my life with.”
Jimmy was stood down from his post as a pilot thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. The unexpected and forced downtime made him reassess what he wanted out of life, and ultimately say yes to The Bachelor.
“I feel very fortunate to be the Bachelor 2021. I am ready to open up my heart and meet someone,” he told The Daily Telegraph.
“I hope to meet someone with similar values that I can have fun with and that shares the same zest for life as myself. The Bachelor franchise has produced many success stories and I hope to be the next.”
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