"I Am Crawling Back Into My Shell”: Bachelor In Paradise Star Reveals Why He’s Embarrassed After Exit

A Bachelor In Paradise cast member is ashamed of his behavior on the show and is taking accountability after his exit. The show made its comeback after a two-year break with Bachelor In Paradise season 10, but it didn’t quite meet fans’ expectations. Although the return of familiar contestants brought some excitement, the new location drew criticism, with some calling it a “Walmart Love Island.” Viewers also felt that the drama, especially from the cast, fell short.

Things got tense when Hakeem Moulton and Ricky Marinez reacted to a game where female contestants gave them negative ratings. Ricky, trying to joke about it, told Hakeem he was “vanilla,” despite his appearance. Hakeem took it personally, feeling put down by a friend, and asked the group if anyone actually liked being called “vanilla.” After their heated argument, both Hakeem and Ricky went home without a rose, clearly turning the Bachelor In Paradise women off.

Hakeem wrote, “Walking out of Paradise a lot sooner than I ever pictured, but feeling so thankful for it all.” He added that while he was ready to push himself out of his comfort zone, he is now “crawling right back into my shell.” The reason behind this is because Hakeem facing rejection and goodbyes on national TV has humbled him “real quick.”

"I know I did the best I could, and I am still grateful for every single moment of this experience."

 

Hakeem confessed that after doing a lot of reflecting, he knows that he has work to do, especially when it comes to handling his emotions and not letting them control the show. He wished that when fans see him, they feel a “little hope” about how they could put themselves out there too to “face the hard parts” while also feeling the “embarrassment and heartbreak,” only to come back stronger.

What Hakeem Moulton Being Embarrassed Means For Bachelor In Paradise

The Real Story Behind Hakeem’s Exit

Hakeem’s apology and Instagram message reveal a rare moment of honesty in reality TV. By admitting that rejection on national television humbled him, he showed a side of himself that many can relate to. He owned up to his emotional reactions and expressed a real desire to grow, making his exit feel more human than dramatic.

He also opened up about the loss of a friendship, likely referring to Ricky, showing that the fallout was more than just for the cameras. Instead of shifting blame, he reflected on how things unraveled and the emotional toll it took. For fans, it adds depth to a conflict that initially seemed petty and overblown.

Even though his time on Bachelor In Paradise was short, Hakeem ended his post with hope. He encouraged others to face rejection, feel the embarrassment, and still believe in second chances. His message was clear. This isn’t the end of his story, and viewers might see him return, stronger and more self-aware.

Our Take On Hakeem Moulton Reflecting On Bachelor In Paradise

What Hakeem’s Honest Reflection Means For His Future

Hakeem reflecting on his time in Bachelor in Paradise, shows a refreshing level of honesty. Instead of deflecting, he owned his emotions, acknowledged mistakes, and even admitted to losing a meaningful friendship. It’s rare to see such vulnerability after a reality TV exit, and it makes fans hope this isn’t the last they see of him.