‘Big Brother’ Showmance Ends After Four Years: Claire Rehfuss and Derek Xiao Announce Split

Claire Rehfuss and Derek Xiao have ended their relationship after four years together. The couple confirmed their split on September 20, 2025. They first met on Big Brother season 23 and later became one of the franchise’s most followed showmances.

Both Rehfuss and Xiao shared the news with fans through identical Instagram posts. They described their breakup as mutual and respectful, stressing that there was no drama involved.

‘Big Brother’ Showmance Timeline and Journey

Rehfuss and Xiao did not start dating inside the Big Brother house. During the season, Xiao showed interest in fellow contestant Hannah Chaddha. Their bond with Rehfuss grew only after both were evicted and sent to the jury house.

That is where their romance began. Soon after, their showmance gained attention among fans of the reality series. Many compared them to past Big Brother couples who went on to marry. According to several outlets including Us Weekly, only one of the seven Big Brother marriages has ended in divorce, giving the show a surprising success rate compared to other reality dating franchises.

Rehfuss and Xiao’s partnership extended beyond Big Brother. They teamed up for The Amazing Race season 34, where they surprised viewers by winning the entire competition. That victory further strengthened their public image as a power couple.

Afterward, they moved in together in New York City, before relocating to Los Angeles a year later. Their journey as a couple appeared strong, with fans often calling them one of the most genuine pairs to come from the franchise.

Why the Relationship Ended

On September 20, 2025, Rehfuss confirmed the split on Instagram. She wrote that after “four wonderful years” the couple decided to part ways. Xiao posted the same message on his own account.

The statement explained that they are “different people who want different things.” Both stressed that nothing dramatic caused the breakup. They also said they still care for each other and plan to remain friends.

Rehfuss asked fans to avoid speculation. She noted that the details are private and that both deserve space to process the decision. The pair made clear they want to move forward without drama, despite their high profile.

The Bigger Picture for ‘Big Brother’ Showmances

Showmances are a regular part of Big Brother. Since the series began in 2000, many couples have formed, and some have even married. Couples like Nicole Franzel and Victor Arroyo have gone on to start families. Others, like Rehfuss and Xiao, eventually chose to end things.

Fans often compare Big Brother to The Bachelor. Interestingly, Big Brother couples have a stronger marriage record than those from the ABC series. Still, the high visibility of these relationships means breakups like this attract significant attention.

The split of Claire Rehfuss and Derek Xiao shows that even strong showmances can face challenges after the cameras stop rolling. Their choice to remain respectful sets an example of handling a public breakup with dignity.

The end of this ‘Big Brother’ showmance is another reminder that real life begins after reality TV ends.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who are Claire Rehfuss and Derek Xiao?

They are reality TV stars who met on *Big Brother* season 23. They later won *The Amazing Race* season 34 as a team.

Q2: How long did their relationship last?

The couple dated for four years before announcing their split in September 2025.

Q3: Did they break up because of drama?

No. Both said the breakup was peaceful. They explained they are simply different people with different goals.

Q4: Where did they live during their relationship?

They first lived in New York City, then moved to Los Angeles together.

Q5: How many ‘Big Brother’ couples have married?

Seven couples have married since the show began in 2000. Only one of those marriages has ended.