Love Is Blind UK's Catherine gives insight into new romance with fellow pod contestant

Fans of Love Is Blind UK were left reeling as Catherine's journey on the popular Netflix show took a heartbreaking turn when Freddie declined to marry her at the altar. Despite the tough rejection, there's a silver lining for the season one contestant; she has since found happiness and romance with another participant from the show.

Initially appearing as a seemingly perfect pair, Freddie and Catherine's connection began to unravel onscreen as differing lifestyles and perspectives started to surface.

In an emotionally charged finale, influenced by his sister's guidance, Freddie opted not to wed Catherine, which made for some uncomfortable viewing.

A year on, however, Catherine has exclusively told The Mirror - along with other Reach media outlets - that she is involved with someone from the pods, extending gratitude to the unconventional dating series. She said: "Love life is good - I am with someone from the pods so, again, thank you to Love Is Blind."

The initial chill between her and Freddie post-wedding has thawed, allowing them to cultivate a fulfilling friendship. She added: "Me and Freddie didn't talk after the wedding. We needed to just focus on ourselves. Now we're really good friends."

Catherine reflected on overcoming past disagreements and moving forward positively, saying: "Yes, stuff went on that he knows about, but we're putting that all to one side and there's just no point in hating or going, 'You said this, he said that'."

She also argued that their off-screen rapport was considerably more enjoyable, explaining: "We actually just get on and he's so much better as a best mate rather than a partner and, off-camera, we had the best of times.

"But unfortunately, as a couple, it didn't work... But if it wasn't for that I wouldn't be with my new partner!"

When asked about her new love interest, Catherine revealed: "So it's Jake from the pods... He was only featured a little bit, bless him!

"But yeah, I didn't actually date him in the pods. Well, I dated him the first time and then I pied him off, which is savage.

"But again, we could have dated and we could have got married, but I don't think it would have worked, because the pressure of the show is crazy.

"So I've got to know him on a normal level, and it's worked out for the better, and I'm a better version of myself than I was back then."

She further detailed their relationship saying: "It's been amazing. We live together, we've got a dog. I'm really happy."

Catherine also disclosed that she and Jake have been together for almost a year, suggesting they started dating shortly after filming ended.

In the same interview, when asked what she had learned about herself from the whole experience, she said: "I've learned to just not put so much pressure on myself to try and make an impression on either males or females and actually just be me."

She also mentioned that she had done "a lot of reflecting".

The full season of Love Is Blind UK is now available to stream exclusively on Netflix.