Grant’s diplomatic nature made eliminations and interpersonal fights a challenge. Several contestants found themselves at the forefront of the drama, including Carolina Sofia and Zoe McGrady. When these women began ruffling feathers, Grant wanted to hear from all sides, but his focus on the drama left him little time to connect with his potential wife. Grant ultimately fell for several women and struggled to make a final decision. His confusion left some contestants heartbroken, but Grant seemed overwhelmed with the process. Grant shouldn’t be blamed for a flawed system.
Grant Tried To Validate Everyone’s Feelings
Grant Didn't Intend To Hurt Anybody
As a lead, Grant was not expected to mediate fights, but this Bachelor went out of his way to appease everyone. When Carolina made claims regarding Rose Sombke, Grant went right to the source. Rose admitted she misunderstood Grant and believed he told her he was thinking of her while dancing with the other women. Grant held her accountable and expressed his displeasure. Rose ultimately self-eliminated, but this was brought on by Carolina’s actions rather than Grant’s confrontation.
Grant tried his best to make sure every contestant felt heard.
Reality TV is known for encouraging drama, and Grant's intervention was not necessary. His involvement was likely discouraged as the show’s ratings skyrocket when controversy peaks. Producers encourage the women to confront each other to help facilitate these explosive and viral moments.
Business Insider discusses the overconsumption of alcohol while filming by writing, “The drinking is a way for producers to get contestants to open up, start drama, and forget about the cameras.”
Despite this, Grant made every effort to abate the drama and validate all parties. Several left the competition resentful of the others, but Grant should not be associated with the controversy he tried to shut down. Grant did his best to ensure a positive experience.
Grant Was Going Through The Bachelor Process
Grant Is No Different From Every Other Bachelor Lead
Gerry had some particularly interesting comments about the challenges of leading a season. The former leads explained that these circumstances can leave one confused and overwhelmed. Gerry’s advice for Grant was to follow his gut, but he backed up Grant’s indecision as well, stating that one can fall for several women when so focused on finding their one-and-only.
Grant was one of many who found themselves connecting with multiple contestants. His empathetic nature made eliminations hard, and Grant's indecision led some contestants on. Litia Garr was particularly affected by this dynamic as Grant confessed his love for her before choosing Juliana at the last hour.
Grant is far from the first bachelor to upset his contestants.
Clayton rejected his two finalists and asked his third runner-up to give him a second chance. Brad Womack of season 11 left the show alone after asking one of the finalists’ fathers' permission to marry. Grant’s actions are far from radical.
Grant Made The Right Choice Picking Juliana Over Litia
Grant Had His Reasons
Grant’s decision to pick Juliana, while shocking, was best for the couple. Litia was ready for a swift marriage and children. Grant wanted this future but needed time to pursue his dreams before committing to children. Juliana seems to share this sentiment.
Grant has been criticized for this choice, but it’s worth noting that his and Litia’s plans for their future and religious ideologies didn’t align. Grant and Juliana seem like a fantastic couple, and they should not be chastised for finding love. The Bachelor’s lead has taken accountability for his actions. Now, he’s finally in the right environment to grow and better himself.