Jesse Palmer on brutal Bachelorette finale: 'I was heartbroken for Jenn'

Each week during The Bachelorette, host Jesse Palmer has answered a few questions about Jenn's "journey" to find "love." Today, Jesse shares his thoughts via email about that dumpster fire of a finale.

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: Wow. So... what was your reaction when you first found out that Devin and Jenn had split, and that you were going to have to break that news to Bachelor Nation on live TV?

JESSE PALMER: When I found out I felt a lot of emotions. I was sad. I was heartbroken for Jenn. I was confused. I never anticipated this happening considering everything that I saw happen between the two of them in Hawaii. 

Jenn was understandably distraught, but she handled herself incredibly well. How would you describe the mood in the studio when Jenn revealed what happened after her engagement to Devin?

People in the audience were shocked, as I’m sure people were at home watching. We had never seen Jenn so emotional, and as difficult as that must have been for her to recount, she showed incredible strength and bravery.

You tried multiple times to get Devin to explain what went wrong. What did you think of his answers? 

I still don’t feel like Devin has ever said why things ended, or what changed.  

James gave amazing "protective older brother" energy both during the family visits and in the studio. Could the show please hire him to attend all hometown dates and offer his assessment of the final suitors going forward?

I’m a big fan of James. I went to speak to him during commercial break to tell him that. He told me that he had never cried in front of anyone in his life, until his talk with Jenn in Hawaii and again during After the Final Rose! I know Jenn is so appreciative of his support. You can tell how much he loves his little sister.  

What was going through your mind as you sat with Jenn watching the proposal?

As hard as it was to watch, I think we also saw an empowered woman, doing things on her terms. I couldn’t be more excited for what’s next for Jenn, and I know she’s going to be great on Dancing With the Stars!

Finally, no spoilers... but please tell us that Joan's Golden Bachelorette journey has a happier ending!

Joan embarked on a magical journey to find great love again in her golden years. People will have to tune in on September 18. You won’t want to miss it!

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