Marc Buckner Speaks Out: Bachelor Star Addresses Relationship Rumors With Timo Hagen

The relationship between Marc Buckner, famed for his role as the lead on ‘The Bachelor South Africa,’ and German fitness influencer Timo Hagen has attracted significant social media attention in recent months. Multiple public appearances and frequent Instagram posts featuring the two together led fans and followers to question whether Buckner and Hagen’s partnership extended beyond friendship. The speculation escalated, with hashtags and fan edits circulating widely on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, reflecting both curiosity and support from the LGBTQ+ community for what some hoped would be a new high-profile queer romance.

Buckner and Hagen have collaborated on fitness content and lifestyle branding, often sharing workouts, travel snapshots, and wellness tips. Their chemistry and mutual support led to increased speculation, particularly as both individuals have positioned themselves as advocates for authenticity and self-care online. However, neither Buckner nor Hagen publicly identified as part of the LGBTQ+ community prior to these rumors.

In a recent interview on the ‘Wickedly Well Podcast,’ Buckner directly addressed the rumors. “We’re just friends; we are not a gay couple. We share similar values, enjoy training, and are both passionate about health. We push each other to be better,” Buckner stated, providing clarity and emphasizing the platonic nature of their relationship. He further explained that their connection is built on shared interests in fitness, fashion, and content creation, not romance.

This marks Buckner’s first public statement directly addressing the speculation, and it comes after weeks of mounting social media discussion. Hagen has similarly posted affirmations of friendship and mutual respect on his own social channels, reinforcing Buckner’s message.

While Buckner’s clarification may disappoint some fans who hoped for LGBTQ+ representation from the pair, many in the community have expressed appreciation for their openness and the visibility of strong, supportive friendships between men. Social media reactions have ranged from understanding to calls for greater nuance in how the public interprets close relationships between high-profile figures.

LGBTQ+ advocates note that while the visibility of queer relationships in pop culture remains vital, it is equally important to respect individual identities and boundaries. The tendency to speculate on the sexuality of public figures—especially based on non-romantic affection—can inadvertently reinforce stereotypes or lead to pressure on those individuals to define themselves publicly before they are ready or regardless of their actual orientation.

“Platonic male friendships deserve recognition and respect,” said one commentator on Queerty’s discussion boards, adding, “It’s healthy for young LGBTQ+ people to see that emotional intimacy and support between men can flourish outside of romance”.

Marc Buckner rose to prominence in 2020 as the star of ‘The Bachelor SA,’ where he ultimately chose Marisia van Wyk as the winner. Their relationship lasted intermittently for two years following the show, with Buckner later dating Namibian model Jo-Marie Harteveld briefly in 2023. Buckner’s openness about his dating history and his willingness to address public speculation have earned him praise for transparency.

Timo Hagen, meanwhile, continues to build his reputation as a fitness influencer and lifestyle content creator, focusing on wellness, body positivity, and mental health. Both Buckner and Hagen have used their platforms to encourage followers to pursue authenticity and prioritize well-being, regardless of social expectations or labels.

The response from LGBTQ+ media outlets and community members has been largely positive, with many highlighting the importance of not conflating close male friendships with romantic relationships and respecting the identities of all individuals involved. The story has sparked renewed conversations about friendship, masculinity, and the diversity of relationships that exist outside of traditional frameworks.

For some, the visibility of Buckner and Hagen’s friendship offers a refreshing counterpoint to the pressures of celebrity culture, where speculation can sometimes overshadow personal truth. The duo’s shared commitment to health, collaboration, and mutual encouragement serves as an example of positive male friendship in the public eye.

As social media continues to shape narratives around identity and relationships, Buckner’s statement is a reminder of the importance of clarity, respect, and inclusive representation. Whether or not romantic involvement is present, stories like these offer opportunities to celebrate diverse forms of connection and foster empathy within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community.