"Slay Austin": The Bachelorette fans react to cast member's self-eviction from season 21 episode 5

The Bachelorette season 21 aired its latest episode on Monday, August 5, 2024. Jenn Tran's ex-partner Matt Rossi gave the Bachelorette a surprise visit, intending to compete alongside the other suitors for her heart.

Matt's arrival caused a commotion among the cast members. They felt he had an advantage, having known Jenn before. Jenn canceled the cocktail party to have a private conversation with Matt. After he presented his case to her, she asked him to leave the show, confessing she could not see a romantic future with him.

While the others rejoiced, Austin felt uncertain. Later in episode 5, he left the show dissatisfied with his connection with Jenn. The suitor's departure left Jenn in shambles. Feeling upset, she confided in the other cast members about her insecurities. Fans were unhappy to see Austin leave the show midway and took to X to comment on his departure.

"We love a respectful man who exits kindly and with grace and honesty Slay Austin #TheBachelorette," a fan wrote.

"me celebrating that Austin survived another week only for him to self eliminate 45 mins later…#TheBachelorette #Bachelorette," another person wrote.

"Austin easily could have just kept enjoying his free vacation, but he stepped aside selflessly. Good guy imo #TheBachelorette," a netizen tweeted.

The Bachelorette cast member revealed he never got to go on a one-on-one date with Jenn. He felt he could not face the tough competition the other suitors presented him with.

"No because I get Austin. He just wanted a 1:1 but instead he’s here man handling dingleberries on a group date lmfao #TheBachelorette," a person wrote.

"I respect Austin 100% for self eliminating. He knew he was never able to fully catchup to the other guys. #TheBachelorette," another fan commented.

"I can respect Austin for just dipping instead of just chattin sh*t but I am pretty shocked that he did it. It's giving "there for the right reasons" tbh #TheBachelorette," a user tweeted.

Viewers of the show were unimpressed by the Bachelorette's reaction to Austin's exit. They said she should have known Austin felt left out.

"Let me get this straight. Austin leaves 'cause Jenn has given him zero validation and is clearly not into him. But she takes this personally? Does she want guys to pine after her even if she doesn't like them? #TheBachelorette," another person commented.

"She didn’t even like Austin. He did the right thing. Gave the guy no attention and is now acting surprised #thebachelorette," a fan tweeted.

"I respect Austin for leaving. You ain’t give him no time of day and now your surprised and feel like your not good enough because he decided to leave knowing you weren’t going to pick him during the rose ceremony? Make it make sense #TheBachelorette," another fan wrote.

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The Bachelorette season 21 star Austin wanted to give the other suitors a fair chance

During the afterparty in episode 5, Austin informed Jenn about his decision to leave. He told her he felt their connection was not strong enough. He urged her to pursue her relationship with the other suitors because he knew one of them would end up as her husband.

By walking away from the show, he wished to give the remaining suitors a fair chance to explore their bonds with the Bachelorette.

Austin's exit prompted Jenn to feel insecure about herself. She felt as if she was not "worthy enough" for him. She confided in the cast members about feeling vulnerable. She feared she would end up alone.

"Today, I just don't feel worthy enough," confessed Jenn.

Jenn's suitors encouraged her by telling her that her feelings were valid. Later in the episode, Jenn gave roses to Grant, Jonathan, Sam, Devin, Marcus, Jeremy, and Spencer, sending Dylan home.

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The Bachelorette season 21 airs only on ABC every Monday at 8 pm ET.