Big Brother Alumni Taylor Hale and Joseph Abdin go their separate ways five months after confirming their relationship.
On Wednesday, 28-year-old Hale announced the couple’s split in an emotional message on her Instagram Story, writing: “Joseph and I have decided to love and support each other as best friends going forward.”
“Right now we realize it’s what’s best for both of our futures.” he continued. “This decision was made with great love, care, and recognition of how special our relationship is to both of us.”
Hale continued to welcome fans of the couple who met in season 24 of the CBS reality competition series.
“We want to thank you for the love and support you have shown us as we move our relationship from friends to lovers and now friends.” “Despite the ongoing harassment, we’ve seen every message about how watching an interracial relationship form affects you, and we’re so impressed with how our love has inspired you.”
“Joseph and I will continue to support each other with enthusiasm, encouraging you to do the same as you always do.”
Hale ends the message by promising to stay close with Abdin, “Love does not disappear here! We will always be a part of each other’s lives. Whether platonic or romantic, we are Jaylor and always will be.”
Abdin, 25, reposted Hale’s message on his Instagram Story.
Courtesy of Taylor Hale and Joseph Abdin
In November, PEOPLE privately confirmed that season 24 winner Hale and guest Abdin are a couple.
The duo became fan favorites throughout the summer as 27-year-old Hale navigated home affairs and competition to win the grand prize of $750,000, as well as an additional $50,000 for being named America’s Favorite Guest.
“My connection with Joseph was undeniable, and from the moment he kissed me on final night, I knew we would find a way to be together,” Hale told PEOPLE. “His heart is bigger than the galaxy and now we have the privilege of sharing our hearts with each other. I love him so much – I’m the happiest person I’ve ever been.”
“From the moment I saw Taylor, I knew he was someone special. Our spark started on the show and we decided to wait for the end of the match,” Abdin added. “Since then, we’ve gotten even closer and confirmed what we already knew. It’s been a roller coaster-like experience but I wouldn’t want to share it with anyone else. She’s an extraordinary woman I’m grateful to have called. me. she may have won Big BrotherBut I’ve won so much more.”
Personal stylist and former Miss Michigan USA Hale and attorney Abdin first met in New York. Big Brother house shortly before the first episode of the season aired on July 6.
The season was initially met with backlash from viewers over the other guests’ treatment of Hale, who was teased by her fellow cast members and referred to as swearing. During the first weeks of summer, Abdin often praised him for his patience and strength, which ignited a friendship between the two.
Don’t miss any stories — sign up PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter From engaging celebrity news to engaging human stories, to stay up to date with the best PEOPLE has to offer.
As the summer progressed, their friendship slowly began to flirt, including when they were chained to each other during a competition penalty. In the weeks before Abdin finished in ninth – a release considered premature for many – the two formed a close bond. (So close that some guests dishonestly told Hale that Abdin turned his back on Hale to ensure his own safety.)