Emotional Georgia Love opens up about split from husband Lee Elliott for the first time

The former Bachelorette opened up for the first time about her split from husband Lee Elliott in an emotional podcast interview.

An emotional Georgia Love has opened up for the first time about her split from husband Lee Elliott, admitting she’s been “really sad, feeling like I’ve let people down.”

The reality TV star and journalist first met Elliott during the 2016 season of The Bachelorette and tied the knot five years later. They announced their separation in February this year, following months of speculation.

Love, 35, opened up about the decision to part ways in an interview with Kate Langbroek on Mamamia’sNo Filter podcast this week.

“I don’t want to feel like I’ve let anyone down, which is so silly because it’s not about anyone else, it’s about us,” she said tearfully.

“People have been so wonderful following our story since the start and so many say they look at our relationship and it gives them hope. I’ve been really sad feeling like I’ve let people down.”

Georgia Love has given her first interview since her split from Lee Elliott. Picture: Instagram

The pair met on 2016 season of The Bachelorette. Picture: Brendan Beckett

Love added that the scrutiny prior to their announcement had compounded her distress.

“It was very hard at the end of last year with all the speculation about whether we had split. It was hard while I was trying to come to terms with what was happening,” she explained.

“Lee and I made the decision together but it doesn’t mean it makes me happy. It doesn’t, I’m really sad about it.”

The GoldFM newsreader, who lost her mother to pancreatic cancer shortly after her season of The Bachelorette aired, also explained to Langbroek that the breakdown of her marriage had plunged her into “a period of loss and grief again”.

They announced their separation in February this year. Picture: Sam Tabone/Getty Images

However, Love insisted that after going through “big things” in their almost-decade together, the pair had “a deep love and respect for each other”.

“I hope we always will. I never expected to be here,” she said.

The former couple released a joint statement in February, confirming news of their split to fans.

“After nine wonderful years together, including four as husband and wife, [we] have made the incredibly difficult decision to lovingly part ways,” it read.

“Our relationship has been so special and we will always cherish the memories, love, and laughter we’ve shared.

“There is no drama, no bad blood. Just two people who have grown in different directions while still holding deep respect and care for each other.

“We remain friends and we’d really appreciate our privacy as we navigate this next stage. Thank you.”