Scheana Shay Claims John Mayer ‘Went Out for a Handshake’ During ‘Awkward’ Run-In Years After Romance Ended (Exclusive)

Scheana Shay Recounts ‘Awkward’ Encounter with John Mayer for a Simple ‘Handshake’

Reality TV personality Scheana Shay recently shared details of an uncomfortable run-in she had with her ex-boyfriend, musician John Mayer. Opening up in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the former Vanderpump Rules star recounted the encounter that took place at ChainFEST last year, where their brief interaction culminated in a simple “handshake.”

Shay’s latest memoir, titled ‘My Good Side,’ has just been released, shedding light on various aspects of her life, including her past relationship with the seven-time Grammy winner, John Mayer. The 40-year-old reality star and Mayer, 47, had a romantic involvement back in 2008, and their paths crossed again years after parting ways.

During the interview, Shay described the awkward moment when she saw Mayer at ChainFEST. She attempted to break the tension by suggesting they take a photo together, but Mayer declined the offer. Reflecting on the encounter, Shay shared, “I saw him, and I awkwardly gave him a hug, like, ‘Hey,’ and then made a joke like, ‘Oh, we should get a photo.’ And he was like, ‘No.’ And I was like, ‘I was kind of kidding.’ But yeah, that was awkward.”

In a separate incident in 2024, Shay and Mayer encountered each other once more at the same event. Shay noted a shift in their dynamic as she recounted, “I didn’t even go in for the hug. He went out for a handshake. I’m like, ‘Well, this is awkward, too.'” Despite these encounters, a representative for Mayer has yet to provide a response to PEOPLE’s request for comment on the matter.

The reality star delves deeper into her past with Mayer in ‘My Good Side,’ recalling their initial meeting in 2008 at his birthday event while he was dating Jennifer Aniston. Shay disclosed that their relationship continued casually for six months without exclusivity, eventually coming to an end after a friend leaked information to the tabloids, causing Mayer to distance himself from Shay.

Respecting Mayer’s privacy, Shay explained that she chose to keep certain details of their relationship private in her memoir. She clarified her intentions by stating, “I know him and Andy Cohen are very good friends, and I’m not trying to burn any bridges with this book. I’m just trying to tell my truth and tell enough of it to give context.” Despite these revelations, representatives for Mayer remain silent on the matter.

‘My Good Side’ is now available for readers to delve into the intricate details of Shay’s personal life, highlighting her experiences with Mayer and other significant individuals. As the reality star candidly shares her truth through her memoir, fans and readers can explore a more profound understanding of Shay’s past relationships and personal journey.

This narrative sheds light on the complexities of past relationships and the impact they can have on individuals over time. Shay’s willingness to share her experiences with sincerity and transparency adds depth to her storytelling, providing insight into the challenges and growth that come with navigating romantic entanglements, especially in the public eye.

As Shay’s memoir continues to captivate audiences with its candid revelations and personal anecdotes, it serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and reflection. Through her narrative, Shay invites readers to understand her journey, embracing vulnerability and authenticity in sharing her truth with the world.

In conclusion, Scheana Shay’s recounting of her encounters with John Mayer offers a glimpse into the nuances of past relationships and the lingering effects they can have on individuals. With ‘My Good Side,’ Shay unveils a chapter of her life, inviting readers to witness her experiences with empathy and understanding, ultimately highlighting the complexities of love, loss, and personal growth.