Ben Higgins Weighs In on Madi Prewett’s “Submissive Wife” Comments
Bachelor Nation alum Ben Higgins recently shared his thoughtful perspective on fellow Bachelor star Madi Prewett’s controversial comments about being a “submissive wife.” During an episode of his “Almost Famous” podcast, Higgins addressed Prewett’s remarks that had stirred significant online conversation. The 36-year-old explained that he and his wife Jessica Clarke took the time to listen to the original podcast where Prewett made the statement, emphasizing the importance of context before forming judgments. “It was said on a podcast. It was kind of a quick comment,” Higgins noted, suggesting that clickbait headlines often strip away nuance from such discussions. With plans to appear on Prewett’s “Stay True” podcast to discuss his book “Alone in Plain Sight,” Higgins mentioned he would have the opportunity to speak with her directly about the topic, stating, “I have a lot of questions.”
As someone who has a friendly relationship with Prewett, Higgins approached the topic with care and respect. He acknowledged that both he and Prewett are vocal about their Christian faith, though their interpretations appear to differ. The controversy stemmed from Prewett’s December 1 podcast episode where she revealed, “I learned a lot about being a submissive wife… Now, it’s, like, my favorite thing. I love talking about submission.” These comments quickly circulated online, generating mixed reactions. Higgins explained that while he doesn’t personally know Prewett’s husband Grant Troutt well, he values his friendship with Prewett and plans to discuss how religious concepts can be misinterpreted when reduced to brief soundbites. “I think I’ll tell Madi I don’t love the quotes out of context when it comes to the life of the sacred and talking about God because it never can really be summed up in one sentence,” he shared.
Higgins offered a thoughtful theological perspective on the limitations of discussing complex spiritual concepts in simplified terms. “I think what’s biblically true, and what Madi would likely agree with… is God is so much bigger than what we can communicate in one sentence,” he explained. This year has been transformative for both Bachelor alums, with Prewett welcoming daughter Hosanna in January and Higgins becoming father to daughter Winnie shortly after. Despite these shared experiences of new parenthood, Higgins expressed concern about reducing faith to rigid statements, particularly when they might be perceived as controversial. “The God that we love and believe in to be real and active in this world is indescribable. You can’t put words to it, and I think that’s where people get in trouble if they try to put words to it,” he reflected, adding that such definitive statements “can come off as so offensive to a majority of people” when they appear countercultural.
In a candid moment, Higgins revealed that his own marriage operates under different principles than what Prewett described. “In this Christian household, my wife does not submit to me and my authority, and we work great,” he stated clearly. Married since 2021, Higgins and Clarke have built what he describes as “an egalitarian household of equableness and compromise and self-sacrifice” that he believes still “represents the heart of Jesus.” This personal disclosure highlighted how Christians can interpret biblical teachings differently while maintaining their faith, offering an alternative perspective to listeners who might assume all Christian marriages follow the same structure. His comments reflect a more progressive interpretation of marriage within the context of faith—one based on partnership rather than hierarchy.
Despite his differing viewpoint, Higgins emphasized respect for Prewett’s personal choices in her marriage. “I really don’t have any desire to argue with her,” he clarified, adding, “It’s her dance and her life and her marriage, and if it works for her and her family… every couple has their own dance.” This balanced approach demonstrated his ability to disagree with Prewett’s perspective while still affirming her right to structure her marriage according to her beliefs. Higgins’ response shows maturity in navigating controversial topics within faith communities, where interpretations of religious texts can vary widely and lead to different practical applications in believers’ lives. His stance acknowledges the diversity within Christian expressions of faith rather than insisting on one correct approach.
The exchange between these two Bachelor Nation stars highlights broader ongoing conversations about marriage, faith, gender roles, and religious interpretation in contemporary America. Both Higgins and Prewett share a commitment to their Christian faith, yet their different approaches to marriage demonstrate the spectrum of beliefs that exist even within the same religion. As public figures with platforms to discuss these topics, their conversation extends beyond personal differences to touch on how Americans of faith navigate traditional religious concepts in modern relationships. Higgins’ willingness to engage with Prewett directly about these differences, rather than simply criticizing her from afar, also models constructive dialogue around sensitive topics. As both continue their journeys as new parents and public figures of faith, their respectful exchange offers fans insight into how believers can maintain relationships despite theological differences.
