The Bachelor season 28 fan favorite Maria Georgas is speaking up after her father has come under fire for allegedly throwing shade at Bachelor runner-up Daisy Kent. While Maria’s journey on The Bachelor season 28 didn’t have the happily ever after that she may have been looking for with Joey Graziadei, she was able to make some genuine connections throughout her time as on the show. Maria quickly became one of the favorites amongst viewers, especially after handling herself well in her drama with Sydney Gordon throughout the season. Though Maria didn’t win Joey’s heart, she won over Bachelor Nation.

“Just his take on the questions he’s being asked.”

During an interview with BachMakers, Maria’s father Nick Georgas spoke about his thoughts surrounding The Bachelorette. Many felt that Maria would wind up being named the lead, but ultimately Jenn Tran took the top spot. “I’m not going to say too much about The Bachelorette,” Nick explained.

“You know, I don’t think anybody should really say too much about The Bachelorette, because that’s not fair to Jenn. Jenn is a great person and it’s her show.” Nick then shared he felt that “nobody” should share that they were asked to take on the role if they chose to turn it down, which some felt was shady toward Daisy.

Maria Georgas Claims Her Dad Hasn’t Seen Any Daisy Interviews

While it wasn’t a widely spread issue, Maria felt it was necessary after some comments criticizing her father cropped up to ensure she defended her dad. Maria took to TikTok to clear up the rumor that her dad was coming for her co-star, replying to a comment and sharing, “I can assure you my dad has not seen any interviews [with] Daisy. Nothing to do with anyone else! just his take on the questions he’s being asked.” While Maria didn’t say much, she made sure to clarify that her dad wasn’t being shady, hopeful to keep him shielded from hate.

Maria may not have won Joey’s heart on The Bachelor season 28, but her hometown date was one of the most entertaining moments of the season. Throughout her time on the series, Maria had difficulty being vulnerable with Joey in a way that would foster a stronger connection. Though her hometown date was advertised to make her father look intimidating, Maria’s hometown showed off the strong family unit she’s a part of, and at the same time, allowed her to open up in a way she hadn’t felt comfortable doing before. Though she was eliminated after, the date was pivotal.

While The Bachelor season 28 has come to an end, Maria’s time in the spotlight is just getting started. Though her family didn’t necessarily sign up to be part of Bachelor Nation, Maria’s father became a particularly sought-after figure after his appearance during her hometown date this season. Although Maria may need to step in and facilitate for her father when things go sideways on social media, it’s clear that The Bachelor star knows how to make her points clearly and succinctly, especially when she’s sticking up for someone she loves.