Nick Viall & Natalie Joy Respond to Criticism of 18-Year Age Gap and Why Theirs Is ‘Different’

Getting candid. 

Former Bachelor Nick Viall proposed to Natalie Joy last year after 2 1/2 years of dating.

Last year, the couple welcomed their first child together, daughter River Rose, then tied the knot in a gorgeous Georgia farm wedding a few months later.

Now, the couple is responding to criticisms about age gap relationships on their podcast “The Viall Files” and sharing why their 18-year gap is different. 

Nick is 44 years old and Natalie is 25, and in response to how they feel about the difference in age, Nick said, “Age gaps are in.” 

He then shared that the thing that matters to him most when it comes to age gap relationships are looks. 

“I always say, when it comes to age gaps, looks matter,” Nick admitted. 

Fellow Bachelor Nation star Victoria Fuller joined as a guest on the podcast and shared that she feels uncomfortable by relationships with very large age differences.

She said, “That’s a grandfather… I’m going to throw up. It’s disgusting.”

Nick then laughs and points to himself and Natalie and responds, “So, us.” Victoria then explains how their age gap doesn’t make her uncomfortable and says, “No, not you guys. You’re not her grandfather.” 

Natalie chimed in and shared that the reason why she feels her and Nick’s relationship is different from others is most likely because of looks. 

“There is something different about a 70-year-old man who looks like a grandfather, is a grandfather, and… them [trying] to make connections with these younger [people]. Yeah, I don’t know,” she admitted.

Nick then shared his final thoughts and said that he hopes everyone is able to find love. 

We appreciate Nick and Natalie’s honesty and that they’re so open about their relationship. We’re wishing everyone the best on their journey to find love!