Stu Laundy wins Bachelorette Sophie Monk's heart

In a dramatic and highly anticipated finale, Stu Laundy has been announced as the winner of The Bachelorette, defeating Jarrod Woodgate.

Former Bardot singer Sophie, 37, professed her love to the 44-year-old publican in Fiji, telling him he's the love of her life.

• Sophie Monk breaks Jarrod's heart on The Bachelorette

• Sophie Monk gushes about Stu Laundy on social media

"Stu, I came here to do The Bachelorette because I wanted to find someone that I'd spend the rest of my life with," she began.

She then went on: "You said loving me was the best thing you've done in a while. I don't think anyone's ever said that to me.

"So I have two really important things to tell you.

"The first thing is... ..I'm so sorry I misjudged you when I first met you. And the second thing is... ..I'm in love with you."

Ever since Stu made his grand entrance as an intruder, there's been an undeniable spark between him and Sophie.

The father-of-four, who has been separated from his wife for four years, had actually met the blonde beauty before the show.

A year ago Sophie had turned down Stu's attempt at wooing her on his lavish boat, but now 12 months and a reality show later, he's managed to sweep her off her feet.

Stu is the brother of Federal Liberal Minister Craig Laundy and their father Arthur Laundy is a well-known pub owner.

According to reports, Stu is set to inherit the $500 million family fortune.

He previously told TV Week that he was "risking a lot" to find love and was simply on the show to "chase happiness".

"I've been married, I've had kids. And just like the other guys, I've put everything on the line," the 44-year-old publican told the publication.

"This may be the biggest gamble of my life, but I'm here to chase happiness."

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