Earl Thompson Spills on His Regrets with Shannon Beador in ‘Love Hotel’

Earl “the Pearl” Thompson captured the affections of Shannon Beador on Bravo’s “Love Hotel,” but in hindsight, he admits he would have handled their relationship differently before they split.

In a detailed conversation with Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea,” 59-year-old Thompson shared that he regrets not informing Beador sooner about his aversion to vegetables—something that led to their initial disagreement.

Thompson, who lives in Atlanta, failed to mention to Beador, a 61-year-old star from “Real Housewives of Orange County,” about his allergy to vegetables.

“Normally, I just say I’m allergic and that’s the end of it,” he reflected during his discussion with hosts Danny Murphy and Evan Real. “I mentioned it offhandedly and it escalated quickly. It was surprising.”

On the May 11 episode of the romance-centered reality series, which features other “Housewives” such as Gizelle Bryant, Ashley Darby, and Luann de Lesseps, a dinner scene ended in tears for Beador after Thompson declared his dislike for vegetables.

While looking over the menu for a four-course dinner, Thompson remarked, “I don’t understand why they handed me this menu. I don’t eat vegetables.”

Beador was taken aback and immediately challenged his dietary choices. “What do you mean you don’t eat vegetables?” she pressed. “Eating greens is crucial.”

Thompson retorted, “And pizza.”

The attempt at humor did not ease the situation, with Beador’s shock turning into frustration. Thompson observed, “Why do you always look so astounded, as if you’re going to hit me?”

Their conversation deteriorated further as Beador shifted her attention to other potential partners, causing Thompson to withdraw and become silent. Beador demanded he “listen” and “participate” more actively, which only compounded the tension.

Thompson felt criticized, leading to Beador calling him a “f–king jerk.” Despite this rocky episode, the two managed to reconcile and continued their relationship through to the end of season one. They dated beyond the show’s filming that concluded in fall 2024, but eventually decided to part ways.

Now single and ready to meet someone new, Thompson admits there are “specific vegetables that I simply cannot stomach,” such as asparagus, which was unfortunately served during their memorable argument.

He explained to “Virtual Reali-Tea” that his dates usually understand once he explains his dietary restrictions. “People generally get it when you explain things like an allergy,” he mentioned.

Thompson also speculated whether things with Beador might have turned out differently if he had the chance to cook for her during their time on the unscripted series in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

“I’m passionate about cooking. I’d probably grill some steaks, make a fresh Caprese salad, and pick out a fine wine,” he envisioned. “Maybe a little cabernet to complement the meal.”

Although their romance eventually fizzled, Thompson has no regrets about devoting his time to Beador on “Love Hotel.”

“There were reasons I focused on her. For instance, Ashley didn’t like cats, and I have pets. Gizelle and Luann were quite popular with others,” he explained. “Shannon was very approachable, which drew me to her. I’m glad we had our time together and really tried to make it work.”

If Thompson were to encounter Beador today, he believes their interaction would be friendly and relaxed.

“It would be simple to start a conversation, grab a cocktail, and just chat. I really adored her kids,” Thompson remarked, referring to Beador’s three children and her dog, Archie, as well as the great times he had talking with her father, Gene, whom he affectionately called “Gene the Machine.”

“Love Hotel” is available for streaming on Peacock.