Is anybody surprised? "Bachelor" Ben Flajnik and made-for-television girlfriend Courtney Robertson have called it quits.
In Touch magazine reports that the winemaker and model have confirmed their split, saying in a statement, "After meeting over a year ago, we have decided to end our romantic relationship. The ups and downs weighed heavily on us both and ultimately we started to grow apart because of the distance, time apart, and our need to focus on our respective careers."
Flajnik and Robertson, who aired their love last spring on Season 16 of the hit ABC show, always faced an uphill battle as Robertson became increasingly vilified by the show's other contestants. But what about their emotional "Reunion Special"? What about the ingenious way Robertson played the paparazzi, deflecting attention from Flajnik by trying on wedding dresses and spurring rumors of a wedding (hey, it worked on us)? And what about Robertson's supposed move to San Francisco, to be closer to her fiancé and his middle part?
"We have nothing but the utmost respect for each other, and both feel this is the right decision," the ex-couple now say, rather dryly. "We continue to remain friends and will support each other in future endeavors. Thanks to everyone for your love and support, it's been quite a ride."
