“Big Brother” alums Tucker Des Lauriers and Rubina Bernabe have called it quits after less than one year of dating.
“There has been a lot going on lately, and I wanted to finally address things. Rubina and I are taking a break,” Des Lauriers wrote via his Instagram broadcast channel, per Parade. “It’s very sad, but deep down we both know it is what’s best for both of us at this time.”
Bernabe shared a statement of her own, writing, “Tucker and I are no longer together. Grateful to have met him & for the love we shared. Feeling grounded and focused on this next chapter of growth. We appreciate your support, your respect, and the space to move through this chapter privately. And a big thank you in advance for continuing to support me through every season.”
Des Lauriers and Bernabe sparked a romance while competing on season 26 of the CBS reality show in summer 2024. While Des Lauriers was evicted before the jury phase of the game, his connection with Bernabe was strong enough for them to continue dating after the show ended.
Just last month, the couple shared photos and videos of them kissing at the Coachella music festival in Indio, California. They also spent time with their fellow “Big Brother 26” alum T’kor Clottey and Big Brother 23’s Hannah Chaddha.
Rubina Bernabe and Tucker Des Lauriers at the "Big Brother 26" finale.CBS
Des Lauriers and Bernabe have been long distance since they started dating, which Bernabe hinted at in a sweet Valentine’s Day post.
“Idc if it’s 3 inches or 3,000 miles, I just want to be near you,” she captioned an Instagram video of Des Lauriers cuddling up with her while she read a book. “Permanently missing @tsdeslauriers but everyday really is Valentine’s Day when we’re together. counting down the days!”
Des Lauriers commented, “THE MOST SNUGGABLE EVER. Always wanna be this close to you.”
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Des Lauriers and Bernabe may have parted ways, but another “Big Brother 26” showmance is still going strong. Despite being the first eliminated player of the season, Matt Hardeman developed a crush on Makensy Manbeck during his short time in the “Big Brother” house. After the season ended in October 2024, they continued getting to know each other before hard launching their relationship that December.
In February, Manbeck posted several pictures from a photo shoot she and Hardeman did in matching denim outfits.
“You are my everything! happy valentine’s,” she captioned the post.
“Big Brother” is available to stream on Paramount+.
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