The Bachelor Season 29 Premiere Proves Grant Ellis Is The Best Lead The Franchise Has Had In A While (He's There For The Right Reasons) - SPOILERS

WARNING! THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS ABOUT THE BACHELOR SEASON 29!

The Bachelor’s latest lead, Grant Ellis, has fans swooning as much as the competitors. While Grant’s first episode provides a great introduction for new viewers, this season is not his first reality gig. Grant first debuted on Jenn Tran’s season of The Bachelorette. Although he and Jenn didn’t share a strong enough connection, as he was eliminated before the hometown dates, Grant remained a fan favorite. Many were ecstatic to see him invited back for his own season.

The Bachelor season 29 had an unconventional start. Contestants typically apply for the competition with a vague idea of the leading man/woman. However, Grant was announced as the lead immediately after his elimination, allowing his contestants first to consider their potential before beginning the application process. Consequently, all 25 women competing have a special interest in Grant. The stakes are higher than ever. As the eligible bachelorettes vie for his heart, Grant’s good intentions and genuine personality complement what may be the franchise’s best season.

The Bachelor Season 29 Premiere Included Grant's Sister

Grant's Family Ties

As the women struggled to secure a coveted time slot with Grant, tensions were high. When an unknown woman arrived and bee-lined for him, they scrambled to watch. Grant’s positive reaction and laughter left the contenders spiraling, so most were relieved to find that the newest addition was not a threat to the competition.

Taylor Ellis’ entrance added drama but more importantly, she offered valuable insight into Grant’s dating history and ethics. According to the professional model, Grant had previously committed to a seven-year on-and-off relationship. Taylor reiterates, “When he loves somebody, he loves hard.” This revelation proved to audiences the New Jersey native is a devoted and faithful partner.

She proceeded to share old family pictures of her brother and teased the exposure of embarrassing lure into Grant’s life. The adorable pictures feature The Bachelor lead and his family enjoying special milestones and moments. Grant’s close relationship with his family is evident. His upbringing has formed him into an empathetic and upstanding gentleman. Taylor’s cameo left contenders swooning for Grant.

Grant Went Off Of Connection For His First Impression Rose

Grant Prioritizes Compatibility

While attraction is important for this leading man, Grant has emphasized the importance of an emotional connection. Grant complimented the women upon meeting them, but not without commenting on their appealing personality traits. This allowed him to make the difficult decision of eliminations less personal and less reliant on physicality.

His focus on compatibility was highlighted in his conversation with a leading contestant, Alexe. She turned heads with her iconic entrance alongside her llama, Linda. The shocking introduction worked out in her favor as Grant remembered her partner-in-crime and immediately asked, “Where’s the llama at?” When asked if he liked the llama, Grant described Linda as “amazing,” noting Alexe stood out to him.

Grant loved Alexe's energy and her ability to make conversation. He implied that her chatty personality would allow him to take the back seat. His calming nature with her bubbly personality are the perfect match, and this emotional compatibility ultimately landed Alexe the coveted First Impression Rose. Fortunately for Alexe, this season’s First Impression Rose coincided with the first one-on-one date. Their connection will only strengthen from here.

Grant Made It Clear He Was On The Show To Find His Life-Partner

Grant Knows What He Wants

Grant’s intentions have been clear since his stint on The Bachelorette season 21. In Grant’s elimination video, he verbalized his desire for a family and wife. Heartbroken, the day trader told the cameras, “I want to be happy. I want a wife. I want to be in love. I want that, you know?” While he and Jenn weren’t meant to be, this season allows him to resume his search for love. Now, Grant is overwhelmed with adoring women.

In a video posted to Grant’s Instagram account, he summarizes his ideals. Grant hopes to find a wife, start a family, and have children. He wants to grow old and share his time with loved ones. His transparency regarding his upbringing and family values has proven that the star is more than capable of maintaining an open line of communication. Grant is more emotionally aware than most.

Grant’s explicit desires, charismatic personality, and fantastic group of women will make this season of The Bachelor more noteworthy than any other. In a franchise known for disingenuous cast members, Grant’s authenticity exceeds expectations. Fans can expect a highly emotional season of love, drama, and heartbreak.