Marc Buckner Sets Record Straight on Relationship with Timo Hagen

Marc Buckner, known for his appearance on The Bachelor South Africa, has addressed speculation surrounding his relationship with fitness influencer Timo Hagen. The 43-year-old model confirmed that he and the 25-year-old German influencer are not in a romantic relationship, despite their close friendship.

Buckner, who starred in the second season of The Bachelor SA in 2020, initially left the show with Marisia van Wyk. Their relationship continued on and off for several years. Recently, fans expressed curiosity about Buckner’s personal life, particularly regarding his frequent social media interactions with Hagen, who resides in Cape Town.

Friendship Misunderstood

The duo has shared numerous posts on Instagram, showcasing activities such as gym workouts, attending events together, and even playful moments like swapping shirts in elevators. Captions on their posts, including “It wouldn’t be nothing without [Hagen],” have led some to speculate about the nature of their relationship.

Responding to these inquiries, Buckner and Hagen appeared on the podcast Wickedly Well with Natasha Viljoen. During the episode, Buckner humorously remarked that Hagen “tried to pick me up at the gym,” to which Hagen added that he was drawn to Buckner after seeing him frequently on social media.

The friends clarified their bond further, with Buckner stating, “To make it simple – we’re not a gay couple. We’re just friends that have – as [Hagen] said – similar values.” He emphasized their shared passion for fitness and personal growth, noting, “I enjoy training, he enjoys training, we’re both healthy, driven humans [that] motivate each other.”

Focus on Personal Growth

Buckner also discussed his reasons for collaborating with Hagen on social media. He expressed a desire for a fun and supportive working relationship, contrasting it with his previous experiences in content creation and modelling, where competition often overshadowed camaraderie. He remarked, “I’m needing to be happy with myself, and that’s why I’m not ready to meet someone yet.”

Previously, Buckner shared with TFG Media that his time on The Bachelor altered his perspective on love, stating it “destroyed the fantasy.” He emphasized the importance of finding mutual love rather than focusing solely on romantic pursuits.

For those curious about the full context of their friendship, Buckner and Hagen’s interview offers a candid look at their dynamic and aspirations. The pair’s commitment to personal development and healthy lifestyles resonates beyond mere speculation, showcasing the value of supportive friendships.