Part IV: Is Love Truly Blind?

The “Love Is Blind” Season 8 finale dropped on March 7, offering plenty of emotional drama and relationship twists. The season, which started with 32 singles from Minneapolis, Minnesota, followed five couples through the pods, a romantic getaway, and ultimately, to the altar at the beautiful Bavaria Downs in Chaska. Warning: Spoilers ahead!

Courtesy of Netflix

Season 8 sparked mixed reactions from major outlets, with critics offering a blend of praise and disappointment (yikes, here’s the latest WSJ opinion). While some appreciate the emotional depth and the authenticity of certain moments, others feel that the season’s drama and relationship struggles lacked the same spark that made previous seasons so captivating. The show’s exploration of real-world challenges in relationships, like differing values and political divides, resonated with some viewers, but others criticized the predictability of the outcomes and the overemphasis on conflict. As a result, the season has left fans divided, with some applauding its authenticity, while others felt it missed the mark on delivering the magic the series is known for.

The verdict? Love was not blind for our Minnesota crew. This season ended with more heartbreak than happiness, but at least for Daniel and Taylor, it’s the start of a promising future. Here’s a breakdown of the season’s final weddings, the drama-filled reunion, and where the couples stand today.

1. Monica and Joey

Status: Broken up

Monica and Joey were the first couple to get engaged on the show, and initially, they seemed to have a solid connection. However, as the wedding day approached, Monica started to voice doubts about their relationship, saying she couldn’t trust Joey’s words over his actions. Despite Joey confessing his love for her at the altar, Monica didn’t reciprocate. She admitted that they both weren’t “100%” ready for marriage, which led them to decide not to go forward. They ultimately walked away from each other, marking the first breakup of the season.

2. Devin and Virginia

Status: Broken up

Devin and Virginia’s connection seemed to be one of the strongest in the group, with shared memories of high school and a relatively smooth courtship. However, once their wedding day came, Devin’s doubts emerged, leaving him uncertain about proceeding. Virginia, however, ultimately made the decision to break things off at the altar. She revealed that they hadn’t fully explored the depths of their relationship, including their sexual chemistry, and felt they weren’t ready for lifelong commitment. Devin was left heartbroken as Virginia walked away, signaling the second breakup of the season.

3. Ben and Sara

Status: Broken up

Ben and Sara’s journey was marked by some significant differences, especially around political views and social issues. Sara’s passion for activism, including the Black Lives Matter movement and LGBTQ+ rights, contrasted with Ben’s more faith-driven and somewhat sheltered views. Tensions flared when Sara discovered a video of Ben’s ex speaking negatively about him (that’s an understatement). Although Sara was willing to give him another chance, the cracks in their relationship were too deep to ignore. On their wedding day, Sara ultimately couldn’t commit, expressing that she needed a partner who was more aligned with her values. Despite their love for each other, they parted ways, and Ben was left hoping for reconciliation, but Sara was firm in her decision. (Watch Sara’s recent interview with PEOPLE Magazine.)

Courtesy of Netflix

4. Daniel and Taylor

Status: Married

Finally, Daniel and Taylor stood out as the only couple from the season to actually get married. Their connection in the pods was immediate, bonded by their shared faith and love for Christmas. There was a brief moment of tension when Taylor thought Daniel had followed her on Instagram prior to meeting, but this was quickly cleared up. Despite some pre-wedding nerves, they both made it to the altar, where Daniel read heartfelt vows expressing his love and admiration for Taylor. Taylor, in turn, read a journal entry from 2020, revealing how she had prayed for a husband just like Daniel. Their vows were filled with emotion, and they joyfully said, “I do,” officially becoming Mr. and Mrs. Hastings.

Courtesy of Netflix

Where Do They Stand Now?

The reunion aired Sunday night, March 9, and brought the entire Minnesota pod squad back together, offering a glimpse into their lives post-filming and revisiting their wedding day decisions. The reunion offered a mix of emotional reckoning, petty squabbles, and the occasional heartfelt revelation.

The most heartwarming moment came from Daniel, who made a lasting commitment to Taylor by unveiling a tattoo of her eyes on his chest—just as promised (insert raised eyebrows here!!!). The couple’s bond continues to strengthen as they settle into married life, even buying their first home. Still, Daniel’s promise of a Taco Bell lip tattoo remains unfulfilled—though he assures us it’s on the horizon.

Courtesy of Netflix

On the other hand, Ben and Sara’s reunion was a messy affair, with each accusing the other of ghosting after the wedding day. The unresolved tension between them added layers to their story, leaving them both still hurt and misunderstood. As Sara pointed out, the TikTok drama surrounding Ben now made a lot more sense in light of their complicated relationship dynamics. Though seeing Ben flounder at the reunion was pretty priceless.

Virginia and Devin’s clash over core values made it clear that despite their initial chemistry, they were never going to align. Their differing views, particularly around politics and personal beliefs, led to a fracture that even a note from Devin’s ex couldn’t smooth over. The real kicker? The shocking revelation that Virginia discovered the note the night before their wedding—leaving the two unable to reconcile the deep divide.

The reunion also brought out Madison’s inner drama queen, as she pulled receipts—literally—out of her armpit to confront Alex and expose his shady behavior. The receipt-slinging spectacle only escalated the drama in the already volatile love square involving her, Mason, and Alex. The tension between these four was palpable, with accusations of manipulation and dishonesty flying in all directions. Madison even vowed more receipts were coming, keeping us all on edge as we waited for the next round of revelations.

Courtesy of Netflix

Joey and Monica’s post-wedding fallout was just as awkward, with Joey’s sisters in the audience backing him up as Monica confronted him about trust issues and ghosting. The fact that Joey had messaged Madison on Instagram after filming—despite being in a “committed” relationship with Monica—only added fuel to the fire, and their awkward interaction left their relationship irreparably damaged.

Dave admitted he “absolutely” regrets trusting the man’s lies, and when asked if Lauren is the one who got away, he sadly answers, “Yes.” However, Lauren expressed doubt, noting that he never mentioned this when they crossed paths after the show. At the same time, Lauren clarified that while she doesn’t believe Dave is a “narcissist or a manipulator,” she still isn’t open to starting a relationship with him again.

Courtesy of Netflix

As we were left reeling from the drama of the reunion, the announcement of Season 9’s filming location in Denver gives us something to look forward to (including a cute “official” handoff from Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus to Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton). If you thought Minnesota was wild, we can only imagine what the Rocky Mountains will bring. Cheers!