Overview

• In a Complex interview, Ace went silent when asked if the runners-up are a real couple, then said Nic told him there was not a romantic spark and only mutual attraction.
• Ace stressed respect for Olandria and described her as a close friend, while noting he is no longer close with Nic.
• He affirmed Taylor Williams and Clarke Carraway as a genuine pair and smirked when pressed about other couples.
• VIBE reported that Ace criticized some castmates for seeking clout rather than genuine connections.
• Fans and media figures pushed back after the interview, with Nick Viall and others defending the pair as Nic and Olandria maintain public PDA and Olandria appeared to dismiss the comments.