Grant Ellis Reveals His Celibacy Path Was a Pre-Bachelor Decision Driven by Faith and Past Pain

Former Bachelor Grant Ellis is offering further insight into his publicly discussed path of celibacy."Ultimately, I intend to live my life, and my earlier declaration stemmed from having already embraced celibacy prior to my appearance on the show," the 31-year-old Ellis revealed during the November 3rd installment of iHeartRadio's "Almost Famous" podcast, emphasizing his pre-show intimacy abstinence was "a deliberate decision."He elaborated, stating, "I had previously been in a seven-year relationship that concluded, leaving me deeply pained. Consequently, I chose to abstain, recognizing that physical intimacy often accelerates emotional processes, if you understand what I mean. One can certainly make regrettable decisions."Ellis clarified his intention to remain "abstinent" until he identifies "the right individual" or enters "a highly committed partnership with marital prospects."The Bachelor's Grant Ellis Light-heartedly Asserts Continued Prowess in Intimacy While on Celibacy Path"I'm not actively pursuing a relationship through physical intimacy, if you follow," he clarified. "That remains a principle I uphold. My portrayal on social media, or elsewhere—I wasn't active on these platforms before, and now I'm gaining a new perspective where I can genuinely express my true self and authenticity. I believe that's the true benefit of participating in The Bachelor."He added, "Despite the outcome of my relationship, I've encountered numerous remarkable individuals. This experience has guided me towards a new direction in life, and for that, I am thankful. My aspiration is to leverage any talents I possess to convey a specific message, remain true to myself, and exert a positive influence."Viewers of Bachelor Nation first encountered Ellis during his pursuit of Jenn Tran on The Bachelorette's 21st season, subsequently taking on the lead role for The Bachelor season 29. His journey concluded with an engagement to Juliana Pasquarosa, following his separation from runner-up Litia Garr, though the couple's engagement dissolved mere months after the season finale.Last October, Ellis utilized social media to affirm his commitment to celibacy.The Bachelor's Litia Garr Comments on Former Partner Grant Ellis' Celibacy Announcement"As the most recent Bachelor, I believe I possess some degree of credibility within the dating sphere, given the show's focus," he clarified. "I find that establishing a serious connection – one truly worth pursuing – is particularly challenging, especially in metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and New York."Ellis admitted that maintaining celibacy can be "challenging," yet he perceives it as the appropriate course for his current life stage."I am a man. I certainly experience urges and desires, and I want to be completely open about that. I have made mistakes previously," he confessed, attributing his motivation to his religious convictions. "Primarily, it's rooted in my faith. ... God understands the intentions of your heart and what brings you joy. The very same God who knows how to fulfill you would also know how to provide a suitable partner without the necessity of a 'test drive.'"Later in October, Grant divulged that he has invested his "entire self" into two significant relationships during his lifetime."My desire is for a connection that is both profound and enduring, which is why I am striving to abstain until I discover my ideal partner," Grant conveyed during an October broadcast of PodcastOne's "When Reality Hits" podcast. "I'm genuinely trying, and I want my subsequent relationship to be 'the one.' If it's not the right fit, I simply won't proceed.""When we eventually become intimate, it will be exceptional," he added with a chuckle. "I possess considerable skill, but I am biding my time."Garr, for her part, offered her reaction to her former partner's declaration during a separate appearance on iHeartRadio's "Almost Famous" podcast. When questioned about her awareness of his celibacy, Garr responded, "Yes, good for him. ... More power to him. I wish him luck with that."