For the past five years, I have looked forward to Monday nights as a delightful escape from reality, immersing myself in the world of “The Bachelor.” Each episode brings a mix of laughter and joy as I witness the often outrageous behavior of the contestants, all while indulging in my long-held dream of witnessing love unfold.
My viewing process has become a ritual: I start by watching all the promotional trailers to build excitement for the new Bachelor, and then I consult Reality Steve for the latest spoilers. Once I identify the frontrunner for the season, I dive into the episodes to see how the storyline develops.
However, this season marks a change for me. In light of the numerous scandals surrounding the show from 2021 to 2024—particularly regarding diversity and social awareness—I’ve decided to return to the franchise’s pure roots. This time, I’ll be watching without any spoilers and will share my thoughts on the premiere episode!
As the season kicks off, the iconic limo entrances outside the “Bachelor Mansion” set the stage for first impressions that can significantly influence the contestants’ chances with bachelor Grant Ellis. The first entrant, fittingly named Rose, is a registered nurse from Chicago. The producers’ choice to present her first is clever; the name ‘Rose’ holds significant symbolism within the franchise, drawing viewers back to the show’s core.
Typically, the second contestant out of the limo becomes a key player in the season’s narrative. Lithia, the second woman to arrive, comes equipped with a witty introduction and an emotional backstory involving a family loss. Her resilience resonates with viewers, making her a strong contender for Grant’s affection. Throughout the night, many women connect with Grant by referencing his professional basketball background, which can help them bond or come across as forced.
The villain archetype emerges early with Alli Jo, eager to showcase her connection with Grant. However, her larger-than-life personality may alienate her from the group, creating potential drama.
Another character, Allisha, presents as a classic “not here for the right reasons” contestant. With her stereotypical blonde beauty and a promotional tagline about wishing on love, she raises suspicion regarding her true intentions.
Among the women, Chloie stands out as a plus-size model who embodies empowerment and representation. Her introductory package highlights her journey toward realizing her dreams, suggesting she will play a meaningful role in Grant’s quest for love, even if she’s not the frontrunner.
This proves my point for a fan favorite, and I am hopeful to see Chloie somewhere throughout Bachelor Nation.
“On night one, Juliana and Grant had a piano serenade and they kissed,” said Peyton Cusick, a senior computer science major. “She also had a long intro package and her editing made her a frontrunner in my eyes.”
My pick for this season is also Juliana, who captivates Grant with her Italian heritage, even bringing a cannoli to share during their initial meeting. Their conversation was accompanied by dreamy music, indicating a special connection.
Yet, there’s an intriguing twist to my predictions. While I have high hopes for Juliana, Alexe—a contestant who introduced a llama during her entrance—also appears to have made a significant impact. Her cheerful demeanor and humorous approach demonstrates her unique personality.
Importantly, Alexe received the first impression rose, suggesting that she stands out to Grant and may go far in the competition.
Overall, the first episode sets the stage for an exciting season ahead. With established frontrunners, budding rivalries and fresh personalities, it promises to be a captivating journey as we watch Grant navigate the complexities of finding love in the spotlight.
