Exclusive Interview With Evicted Bachelor Contestant Natalie

WHO’s Nicholas Fonseca talks to one of the first two women eliminated on last night’s premiere episode of The Bachelor.

One of the reasons you said you went on The Bachelor this year was because, at age 28, you’ve never had a boyfriend. And then you were eliminated on the first night. Was this the right idea?

I’m not going to lie: the past few months have been quite difficult. But I think I was at a stage in my life where I was prepared to take a risk and take an opportunity. I probably would have regretted it more if I had not taken this chance.

What do you mean when you say the last few months have been difficult?

Well, obviously I had to quit my job to go on show. I took a big risk and it didn’t pay off. It was interesting and eye-opening, and I took a lot away from it. I’ve moved back to Kalgoorlie, where I’m working as a reporter at local paper. So it’s not too bad.

So did it hurt harder to be one of the first eliminated?

It certainly brought back memories of all the times when I’ve been rejected, but in hindsight, Richie is a genuine guy. He’s just not the guy for me. We’d be better off as mates, and if it means someone else is closer to meeting the man of their dreams, then I’m okay with that.

When you heard only 16 roses were going to be given out at that first ceremony, did you figure you may not get one from the start? Or were you still hopeful?

To be honest, I wasn’t too fazed. I went in thinking whatever happens happens. I didn’t want to overthink anything, but just to enjoy the ride. So when I didn’t get a rose, I was genuinely okay with that. I probably was ready to leave.

Did you feel anything the minute you met Richie?

If anything, I just felt a lot of nerves and quite awkward. In terms of something more, no. There was no real chemistry or intrigue. He seemed great and down to earth, but he felt more like a mate.

What do you wish, if you had stayed on longer, that he would have had the chance to find out about you?

I would have liked to have gotten out of the dress and the red lip and the hair and makeup and been in a more comfortable, relaxed setting – doing something adventurous or active. Something chilled so we could have gotten to know each other a bit more. There’s so much more to someone than a dress, hair, makeup and a cocktail party.

Do you think you should have brought a gimmick?

Maybe I should have used my journalistic skills and written a letter or ridden in on a motorbike or a horse! I did consider it but I wanted to be true to myself. I don’t do those things the first time I meet somebody in real life, either.

Do you think Keira deserved to get that rose over you?

If Keira and Richie had more of a connection, then definitely. She should have gotten it. Why not? There was no point wasting mine or Richie’s time if he wasn’t interested in me.

What did you make of Keira, anyway?

[Laughs] I wasn’t there long enough to get to know her on a personal level. In this show, there’s a mix of personalities. If anything, it’s going to be more interesting and entertaining as we keep watching every week.

At this point, whom are you tipping to go all the way?

I could get this completely wrong because I’m horrible at predictions, but I’m picking Nikki. I think she genuinely really liked Richie, and I think he had a soft spot for her as well.

And whom should Richie avoid at all costs?

I’m not going to comment on that one. Everybody has a right to get to know him!

For WHO's exclusive chat with evictee Aimee click here.