'The Bachelorette': Chris Harrison Blogs 'After the Final Rose'

Another one in the history books! First and foremost, congratulations to the happy couple, Kaitlyn and Shawn. They had an amazing run, from first impression rose to final rose, and the bumps they took along the way only made their love for each other stronger.

I leave this season with a great deal of respect for Kaitlyn, for what she went through, and for the strength she had in dealing with it. At the end of the day, this journey is a tough one and staying focused and coming out on the other side, with the things you said you wanted, is a difficult task, but she did it and I applaud her as the Bachelorette, and as a friend.

I have to give some credit to both Nick and Shawn for being willing to sit down for one final time and try to iron out some of their problems. We all know how difficult that was, but I’m really glad they hashed it out, more or less, and shook hands. Now, they can feel like nothing has been left unsaid and they can go their separate ways.

For his part, Nick was bold. He made big aggressive moves, as one should do when going after something you want. He is the first man to be sent home that far along two times, and as easy as it is to make fun of something like that, it’s also important to remember that putting yourself out there is tough and trying and failing is better than not trying at all. Good luck, Nick.

And then there’s Shawn. He knew he wanted to be with Kaitlyn before he even met her and it turned out he was right. On the first night Kaitlyn said it was as close to love at first sight as she has ever experienced, and now we see that it may have even been the real deal that first night. Shawn really has been a rock for Kaitlyn and I know he can help keep her happy. I wish Kaitlyn and Shawn nothing but joy and look forward to hearing more about the future they are planning together.

Well, it was an insane ride but, more importantly, it was a beautiful love story.

And thankfully, the summer is not over. This Sunday get ready for Bachelor in Paradise. It’s the most dramatic, insane, romantic, tearful show we’ve ever made and we can’t wait for you to see it. And then on Monday, the show continues and we introduce our new LIVE show where you can get involved, After Paradise. It’s going to be the two-night event of the year.

Until then, thanks for everything, Bachelor Nation! You’re the reason we get to do this and we are forever grateful.

Bachelor in Paradise premieres Sunday, Aug. 2 at 8 p.m. on ABC.