Big Brother winner Taylor Hale confirms relationship with former co-star

Big Brother‘s Taylor Hale and Joseph Abdin have confirmed they are in a relationship.

The duo met early on in the latest series of the long-running American version of the show, their 24th overall.

Abdin was eliminated on Day 51, while Hale was crowned both a winner and America’s Favorite HouseGuest on Day 82, winning $800,000 and becoming the first Black female winner.

Following rumors and social media posts, the couple released a statement persons shows that they are indeed a couple.

CBS

Related: Big Brother Star claims the show “ruined” her life as she describes a “living nightmare.”

Hale said: “My connection to Joseph was undeniable and I knew from the moment he kissed me last night that we would find a way to be together.

“His heart is bigger than the galaxy and now we are privileged to share our hearts together. I love him so much – I’m happier than ever.”

“From the moment I saw Taylor, I knew she was special. Our spark started within the show and we decided to wait until after the game,” added Abdin. “Since then, we’ve only gotten closer and confirmed what we already knew.

CBS

Related: ExBig Brother Host Emma Willis shares one way she would return to the show

“It’s been a rollercoaster of an experience, but I don’t want to share it with anyone. She is a remarkable woman and I am so grateful to call her mine. She may have won Big Brotherbut I gained so much more.”

During their time on the show, the two were chained together at one point as part of punishment for a task. For Halloween, they decided to reference this punishment with their outfits:

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The US version of Big Brother has been renewed for a 25th season on CBS, while ITV2 will revive the UK version of the show next year. Applications for the series are now open.