What Netflix Didn't Show
- Johnette Cruz
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
Behind The Filter: After Dark Edition
This week on Behind The Filter: After Dark Edition, the atmosphere was electric as we sat down with our very own Ashley to peel back the layers on her time filming Netflix’s Age of Attraction. If you’ve been following the viral headlines, you know her as the "39-year-old virgin" (a title TMZ helped cement), but as we learned in this episode, there is so much more to her journey than just a label.
From hidden romances to production mishaps that are almost too cringey to believe, Ashley is finally spilling the tea on what happened when the filters came off.
The Story Behind the "Viral Virgin" Headline
For a long time, Ashley kept the specifics of her story under lock and key. While she only appeared VERY briefly, Netflix recently dropped several deleted scenes that finally showcase the emotional depth of her experience. Ashley revealed that being a virgin at 39 wasn't just a "fact" about her; it was a deeply personal choice tied to her romantic nature.
In one of the most moving deleted clips, Ashley sits down with Andrew to share that she has been writing in a journal to her future husband since she was 16 years old. She opened up about a previous relationship where an ex-partner called her "selfish" for her choice, which made her incredibly anxious about how the men on the show would react.
The Andrew Connection
What moved Ashley most was Andrew’s immediate and selfless response. While many men might immediately wonder how her virginity would affect them or the relationship, Andrew stayed entirely present with her. He didn't break eye contact, he offered physical comfort by placing a hand on her leg, and he didn't falter.
In a moment the cameras didn't fully capture, Andrew even reciprocated her vulnerability by sharing personal details about his own life, including the ages of his two daughters. For Ashley, this set a new standard for how she deserves to be treated—with respect, patience, and genuine care.
Navigating the "Love Square"
The show’s timeline can be confusing, but Ashley broke down the complicated web of connections. While Andrew eventually found a lasting connection with Libby, Ashley was also exploring a strong bond with Justin G. (not to be confused with the other Justin on the show!).
Justin G. was the "tattooed gentleman" who caught Ashley's eye. Despite his "too cool" exterior, he turned out to be incredibly attentive. During a cocktail party, he stayed by Ashley’s side, making sure she had a drink and was comfortable, allowing her to lean into her "feminine era."
The challenge? Ashley only had three minutes during speed dating to make an impact. Because of time constraints, she didn't even get to speak to everyone. She actually had to hunt Justin G. down after a champagne toast and tell a producer she made a mistake by not circling him initially! This led to a "love square" dynamic where she was torn between the peace Andrew gave her and the confident, quiet strength of Justin G.
🎬 Behind-the-Scenes: The Reality of Reality TV
Being vulnerable on camera is hard enough, but Ashley had to deal with some interesting production hurdles.
The Mic Mishap: On her very first day, just as she was trying to look cute for Andrew, a producer had to re-mic her. Since her mic pack was clipped to her inner thigh, she had to awkwardly spread her legs in a dress right in front of him. To his credit, Andrew turned his head to give her privacy, proving he was a gentleman from day one.
The Bug Date: Immediately after her emotional heavy-lifting with Andrew, producers sent her on a night date with Justin G. They were placed on a backless bridge in the middle of the wilderness and were relentlessly dive-bombed by bugs. It’s hard to build a romantic connection when you’re slapping mosquitoes off each other and trying not to fall into a river!
Despite the chaos, Ashley praised the production team—specifically a producer named Patrick—for making her feel supported and empowered throughout the process.
Ashley’s journey reminds us that our stories are worth sharing, even the parts that feel "different" or "weird." Whether it's standing firm in your values or surviving a bug-infested date on a bridge, it’s all about staying present for the moments that matter.
Sponsor Spotlight: Zero FKS Drinks
We are so excited to have Zero FKS as our official sponsor for this series. Founded by Lindsey Rowan, a functional nutritionist and fellow Hoosier, Zero FKS was born from the desire to stay social without the alcohol, the sugar, or the "soul-crushing" hangover.
As we get older, our bodies just don't bounce back like they used to. I shared a story about having just one sugary vodka seltzer and getting a massive headache afterwards. That’s where Zero FKS comes in. It is a hemp-derived THC and CBD seltzer that offers a smooth, controlled relaxation.
For the "autoimmune girlies" like us, this has been a game-changer. For me personally, it helped manage the constant pain of my autoimmune disorder, even calming my bladder spasms, allowing her to just sit back and relax at the end of the night.
The Deets:
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The Blend: You can choose between two strengths. The standard version features 2.5 mg of Delta 9-THC and 5 mg of CBD, while a stronger version offers 5 mg of THC for those who want a bit more of a "chill."
Flavors: My personal favorite is the Hibiscus Noir, but I also recommend the Cherry Limelight.
You can head over to zeroFKS.co to grab a pack and start feeling included in the toast without feeling the pain the next morning. Because let’s be real: your best self doesn't need a hangover.
Watch or listen to the full episode below!
Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to this blog, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube for future episode releases! If you have a story, or would like to sponsor an episode please email Johnette at johnette@johnettecruz.com
~J
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