Ben Higgins admits he could have used a “better choice of words” to describe Nick Viall for the former “Bachelor” star’s profile in The New York Times.
“It was an hour long interview and all the honest feedback about Nick…maybe it didn’t come across as opportunistic [right]Higgins, 33, told Page Six exclusively via Zoom, adding that he did the NYT interview a while ago.
“But actually I meant exactly the second part. Nick works hard. He’s someone who puts his foot in the door.”
Higgins added that even if his pal knows an opportunity might not work, Viall, 41, will still “make sure” to make the call – both for himself and his close friends.
“If times get really tough during this whole process, he’s the guy I call,” Higgins continued.
“He knows there aren’t many I call. He’s one of maybe two or three that I call and say, ‘Hey, am I crazy? Hey, am I doing something wrong?’”
Higgins told Page Six that he even has Viall to thank for encouraging him to try out-of-the-box dating methods outside of reality TV shows and dating apps.
He said Viall was the one who told him to start messaging people on Instagram and that’s how he ended up connecting with now-wife Jessica Clarke.
“Well, you know, there could have been a much better choice of words to describe it [part of his personality]’ Higgins added, again referencing the NYT article.
“But all I really meant was that he’s a hard worker and makes sure he has a foot in the door, which personally I find admirable.”
Viall also admitted to Page Six that in a certain “light” the word is “accurate” to describe him.
“I think it’s important that everyone takes advantage of the opportunities that are given to them,” explained the ‘Bachelor’ season 21 lead.
“I tried to take that to heart myself and use the access that the show gave me to work hard and work and try to make something of my own. And so I think, in that light, yes, that would be correct.”
Next, Higgins and Viall will be featured in the episode of “Celebrity Beef” on E!
Celebrity Beef airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET on E!