Despite reconnecting with ex-villa partner TJ Palma after filming, Iris Kendall confirms her relationship with Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez is genuine and ongoing.

Planned Reunion: Closure, Not Rekindling

July 19, 2025: Following TJ Palma’s exit from the villa just days before the finale, a candid video captured Iris meeting him off-camera in Los Angeles. Iris explains the meetup wasn’t a romantic reunion—it was a heartfelt, off-camera conversation she felt he deserved. Her goal? To offer emotional clarity and closure, not revive their flame.

Pepe and Iris: A Real Connection

Iris emphasizes that her bond with Pepe is “real as well.” The two formed a deep connection during the final stretch of the show, ultimately finishing fourth together. Post-filming, they have stepped into a more private, grounded relationship—focusing on quality time rather than public spectacle.

Exclusive, Honest, and Respectful

Iris and Pepe assure fans they’re not seeing other people and are not rushing to define things too rigidly. They’re aiming for normalcy: going on dates, hanging out with friends, and keeping things honest. Both have also reached out to their exes—Pepe with Hannah Fields and Iris with TJ—to maintain respectful closure and friendship.

Navigating Outside the Villa

Entering the media spotlight post-show, Iris and Pepe agreed early on to keep their relationship low-pressure and authentic. Iris notes her reconnection with TJ was partly to wrap up emotions stirred by being “ripped away” from him on the show—something she felt necessary for both parties to move forward.

What Comes Next?

Relationship evolution: Iris and Pepe are focused on nurturing their bond while keeping things private and honest.

Reunion follow-up: They’ll appear on the reunion special airing August 25, where deeper details may emerge.

Fan speculation: Despite the clarity, some fans remain curious—especially if Iris’s genuine care for TJ might affect her future with Pepe.

Iris’s off-camera chat with TJ was about closure—not a romantic revival. Her commitment to Pepe remains sincere, and their steady, respectful approach is what she calls “real love in the real world.”