John Henry Stands up for Kat Amid Fan Backlash Following Breakup: 'Stay True to Yourself'

John Henry Spurlock has defended his former fiancée, Kat Izzo, hitting back at negative comments on social media following the announcement of their split. The Bachelor in Paradise star posted previously unseen photos of himself and Izzo on Instagram on Tuesday, December 12.

"Those criticising based on an edited reality dating show should know that I don’t feel I made a mistake in choosing her,” wrote John Henry, 31. “I never second-guessed my decisions. I fell for Kat Izzo, the real Kat. The real Kat always prioritised my feelings and made great efforts to make it work. However, the Kat that Bachelor Nation knows is different from the real one.”

On Monday, December 11, John Henry and Kat, 27, broke the news of their separation on Instagram, just four days after their engagement was aired on the Bachelor in Paradise finale. The post invited a flood of comments suggesting the underwater welder had "dodged a bullet," which prompted his supportive message a day later.

John Henry added, “Though we've chosen different paths, Kat is a fantastic woman and any man would be lucky to have her. Keep being yourself, accomplishing your goals, and enjoy your time in San Diego as a nurse practitioner.”

Kat responded to her ex's post on her Instagram, “I believe each person and experience in our lives happens for a reason. There is a deeper purpose and meaning behind our relationships. Though we may not grasp these reasons now, the memories we created will endure. Weathering any storm requires maintaining a sense of gratitude within the chaos."

Kat, a native of Tampa, Florida, faced sizeable viewer criticism during her time on Bachelor in Paradise and season 27 of The Bachelor. She addressed the negativity on Instagram, “Being open and vulnerable isn't easy. We all falter in life. While the unfiltered lens of reality TV shows our vulnerability as both a strength and a struggle, it reminds us that we're bound to make mistakes on this unpredictable journey. As we share our lives, we should focus on understanding and kindness, rather than victimhood or villainy.”

Despite her turbulent experience in Paradise, Kat found love with John Henry and they got engaged during the finale, which was shot in June. After the episode aired on December 11, Kat shared photos of her “favorite moments” with John Henry, but soon after he announced their separation.

John Henry's breakup statement read, “Kat and I recently decided to split with mutual love and respect. Our relationship was filled with cherished memories and personal growth. We are thankful for the love and support from our family, friends, and Bachelor Nation. This decision wasn’t easy, but is right for us at this point in our lives. We request your continued support and respect for our privacy as we navigate this transition.”