Farmer Wants a Wife fans have voiced their frustration over Farmer Bert’s farewell to a fan favourite — who many had believed would become his ‘true love’.
The pineapple farmer said goodbye to Lauren McNeil, one of the original women he met on the dating show.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Lauren McNeil farewells Farmer Bert Harris.
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Lauren shared her struggles competing with other women for Bert’s heart, particularly when two more hopefuls this week joined the competition for the farmer’s affection.
“It’s really taken its toll on me. You place your heart in someone else’s hands, and it’s not easy,” she told producers as she packed her bags.
“Say goodbye to this chapter… it’s time for me to go.”
Lauren shared the news with the farmer while he was on a date with the two women hand selected by his mother.
“I wanted to come chat to you, because I’m really struggling,” she told Bert.
“This whole process has been really hard for me. I’m not sure I can keep doing it, so I’ve packed my bags.
“I’m going to go home. It’s just too much for me.”
Bert appeared stunned, whispering in her ear as they hugged goodbye: “Don’t be a stranger”.
“(I’m) definitely torn. I think the world of Lauren,” he told producers in a confessional about her decision.
“I had hoped that she would stick it out and we could explore where things potentially could go.
“But I’m definitely not going to put any added pressure on her to stay.
“Obviously it didn’t work out but hopefully it will all work out for the best.”
The video was later shared on the Farmer Australia Instagram, prompting an influx of comments.
“Noooo. Go find her Farmer Bert!! Lauren is the best! She will be the one that got away!” one said.
“What a shame. He’s missed a lovely match there,” added a second.
“She was the pick. How disappointing,” another said, while a fourth agreed: “I am so sad Lauren left. I thought she was the perfect match for Bert.”
Lauren posted a message to Instagram, saying her mental health was more important than “everything”.
“Sometimes to leave is the brave thing. No longer a contestant, but still writing my own love story,” she said.
“Thanks to @bertharris for the journey and constant kindness, and to all the gorgeous ladies I met along the way — so brave.
“Please be kind and check in on each other. Mental health (over) everything,” she said.
Some of the other hopefuls from the 2024 season were quick to respond to Lauren’s message.
“Loz I’m crying. You are such a beautiful person inside and out, and I’m so proud of you for sticking it out for as long as you did,” said one of Bert’s other ladies, Caitlin Crank.
“Love you my forever roomie. Never settle for anything less than you deserve and that’s the world xx.”
Caity Dunn, who left Farmer Bert’s property before Lauren, wrote: “I know this wasn’t an easy choice to make. I’m forever proud of you for listening to your heart.
“Ever since our D&M by the pool and car karaoke I knew you’d be a forever friend. Love you lots.”