Kaitlyn Bristowe Talks Controversial Bachelorette Season: ‘I Knew I Was Going To Do Things That Would Upset People’

“I knew I was going to do things that would upset people,” the bachelorette, who vowed to “kiss everyone,” told People. “I was prepared for that.”

Kaitlyn was criticized after a teaser for the season revealed that she had sex with a contestant. That’s when viewers began to slut shame the reality star over social media. “I have tough skin, but when people are calling you a slut, that definitely hurts,” she said. “To have people attack me for being human is hard.”

Despite the backlash, the dance instructor stands by her decision. “Sex is part of a relationship to me,” she said. “I don’t know why it’s being made into such a horrible thing.”

But despite all of the negativity that came with the show, Kaitlyn insisted that it has all been worth it. “I’ve had girls come up to me and pat me on the back for being real,” she said. “This has been the craziest experience of my whole life. I just have to move forward and be thankful for what I went through.”