The Bachelorette: Stu Laundy breaks his silence — why he pursued for Sophie Monk’s heart

HE was tipped to win The Bachelorette even before he hit the screen, but Sydney publican Stuart Laundy admits he wasn’t so confident and risked a lot to try to win Sophie Monk’s heart.

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HE was tipped to win The Bachelorette even before he hit the screen, but Sydney publican Stuart Laundy admits he wasn’t so confident and risked a lot to try to win Sophie Monk’s heart.

With the spotlight on the wealthy 44-year-old bachelor since the show began, Laundy has been trying to keep a low profile.

However the father of four broke his silence yesterday, telling The Daily Telegraph exclusively that his appearance on the hit Channel Ten show was a move to put love ahead of his reputation.

Publican Stu Laundy revealed he risked a lot to try to win Sophie Monk’s heart. Picture: Richard Dobson

“It’s a risk for someone like me to go on the show,” he said. “I ummed and aahed a lot but what got me over the line was that I just thought I saw something in Soph.”

Laundy’s first appearance on the show last night lived up to the anticipation, with chemistry between the pair — who had met before — undeniable.

“When I first met her it was excellent and I really wanted to meet her again, and I had to go through the rigmarole to do it.”

The pair met on the show last night, but it wasn’t their first meeting. Picture: Channel 10

While Laundy understands his position on the show will ­attract attention, he’s uncomfortable with the impact it’s had on his ex-wife and children.

“I’ve been pretty clear that I enjoyed married life with my ex-wife. I enjoyed my children and it wasn’t my decision (to end the relationship). I was heartbroken. But you don’t want to be lonely so I’ve been trying to meet someone,” said the Sydney identity, who was one of four intruders to gatecrash the show in its third week.

RELATED: STU CONFIRMED HE IS STILL MARRIED AS HE FIGHTS FOR MONK

RELATED: TV EXECS FINDING NEW WAYS TO PROTECT MONK’S FINALE

It was revealed earlier this week Laundy is still married to his ex Rachel as they finalise their divorce.

Apollo has been labelled a frontrunner. Picture: Channel Ten

Laundy said that while it was “flattering” that people called him the favourite, he had ­serious competition, includ­ing handsome ­magician Apollo.

“I don’t know anyone in the world who wouldn’t want to be with that guy. He’s one of the best guys you’ll meet. It’s ­impossible to think who has an edge over someone in that house. They are all champion, champion guys,” Laundy said.

The program continues ­tonight on Channel Ten at 7:30pm.