Taylor Hale and Joseph Abdin.Photo: courtesy Taylor Hale & Joseph Abdin
Big BrotheralumsTaylor HaleandJoseph Abdinare going their separate ways five months afterconfirming their relationship.
On Wednesday, Hale, 28, announced the couple’s split in an emotional message onher Instagram Story, writing, “Joseph and I have made the decision to love and support each other as best friends going forward.”
“We recognize this is what’s best for both of our futures at this time.” she continued. “This decision was made with lots of love, care, and acknowledgement of how special our relationship is to the both of us.”
Hale went on to acknowledge fans of the pair, who met on the 24th season of the CBS reality competition series.
She added: “Joseph and I will continue to support each other enthusiastically, we encourage you to do the same, as you always have.”
Abdin, 25, reposted Hale’s message on his own Instagram Story.
Taylor Hale and Joseph Abdin.courtesy Taylor Hale & Joseph Abdin
In November, PEOPLE exclusively confirmedseason 24 winnerHale and houseguest Abdin were a couple.
The pair became fan favorites over the summer as Hale, 27, navigated house relationships and rivalries towin the $750,000 grand prize, plus an additional $50,000 prize for being voted America’s Favorite Houseguest.
“My connection with Joseph has been undeniable, and I knew from the moment he kissed me on finale night that we’d find a way to be together,” Hale told PEOPLE. “His heart is bigger than the galaxy, and now we have the privilege of sharing our hearts with each other. I love him so much - I’m the happiest I’ve ever been.”
“From the moment I saw Taylor, I knew she was something special. Our spark started within the show and we decided to wait until after the game,” Abdin added. “Since then, we have only gotten closer and confirmed what we already knew. It has been a rollercoaster of an experience, but I wouldn’t want to share it with anyone else. She is a remarkable woman that I am so grateful to call mine. She may have wonBig Brother, but I won so much more.”
Hale, a personal stylist and former Miss Michigan USA, and Abdin, a lawyer, first met in theBig Brotherhouse shortly before the season’s first episode aired on July 6.
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Their friendship slowly got flirtier as the summer progressed, including a moment when they were chained together during a competition punishment. In the weeks before Abdin finished in ninth place — an eviction many considered premature — the pair formed a close bond. (So close that some houseguests dishonestly told Hale that Abdin had turned on her to secure his own safety.)
source: people.com
