The Golden Bachelorette star Pascal Ibgui's got an attitude, and his "in your face" boldness may actually be a sign of narcissism. During the series' inaugural season, some problematic men are in the mix, including Pascal, who does not mince words. While it's refreshing to have such a straight shooter among the cast, it's possible that his "honesty" is mean-spirited. Right now, Joan Vassos is facing such a tough choice ahead of the November 13 finale, but Pascal's not one of her options. He took himself out of the running, cruelly dumping Joan and then blaming it on interfering producers.
The Golden Bachelorette season 1 cast's filled with wild cards, and the season's been a rocky ride so far. Due to the personalities and storylines, the finale is likely to feature some jaw-dropping action. As Joan tries to decide between two sketchy choices - the ultra-controlling Chock Chapple and a man who once had a restraining order taken out against him, Guy Gansert, she's got a lot on her plate. While she was hurt that Pascal didn't want to continue their relationship, he's also shady. Ultimately, anyone she picks may end up disappointing her, just like Gerry Turner disappointed Theresa Nist.
Why Does Pascal Ibgui Seem Narcissistic?
His Ego Is Out Of Control
Pascal's stealing the spotlight any way he can. This sort of craving for attention is one good reason why he may be a narcissist. This type of person practically withers up and dies when they're not in the limelight. They feed on attention, whether it's positive or negative.
The thing is, narcissists love a good fight. That means that the combative and bombastic Pascal may actually glory in his villain status. Cutting down the producers who cast him on the show is really just the tip of the iceberg. He had more to show the world, and some of it wasn't so pretty. As per Mayo Clinic, narcissists have real issues. They:
React with rage or contempt and try to belittle other people to make themselves appear superior.
This "superiority" is really the key to understanding a narcissist. Each one constructs a sense of self that comforts them. They must inflate their egos to feel safe. They believe they're on another plateau, and anyone who brings them back down to earth will learn the hard way that they are vindictive people. When the fragile sense of self is pierced by a hard truth, the narcissist will inevitably go berserk, out of all proportion to what is appropriate or normal.
When Pascal took on producers, he tried to school them, showing them exactly where they were going wrong. He strongly implied that they forced him to dump Joan, who felt worthless after "experiencing" Pascal at his harshest. However, it could be argued that he could have defied producers. Did he really have to hurt Joan so much just to please them? The concept of him being devoid of free will on a reality show is a bit hard to swallow, mostly because he's such a strong-willed man.
Many reality stars have gone their own way on shows, despite the collateral damage.
The narcissist is so extra that their journey through life can be very troubled, and this just ignites the rage inside of them. According to Mayo Clinic, a typical narcissist won't be the cheeriest person. Pascal seems angry a lot, always calling other people out. It's like, in his inner world, only he's good enough. The source reports:
A narcissistic personality disorder causes problems in many areas of life, such as relationships, work, school or financial matters.
So, no one should envy this personality type, despite the breezy sort of confidence that they have. This "mask" of confidence can be useful in Hollywood or in group settings, but these people are always onstage. They're exhausting to be around. Their images are carefully contrived to help them get their way, and despite the slick exteriors, they are often miserable.
Pascal Loves Being The Center Of Attention
Maybe Too Much
Too dependent on the words, thoughts and actions of others, narcissists cannot find their centers. They are unstable people who need a constant supply of drama in order to distract them from the underlying issue, which is that they expect more from others than they give... a lot more. Narcissists are takers, not givers. Above, Pascal's delighted when someone dresses up as him for Halloween.
This is ultimately why they seem so lifeless when they're not getting anything. It's the reason why their lives can be surprisingly joyless. People with callous traits should make a conscious effort to be gentler with other people. They don't understand how transparent their motives are.
Pascal has a lot to say about others, but his dark side is obvious. However, when he's challenged, he's unlikely to change. Self-awareness isn't exactly a "thing" with narcissists. It gets in the way. So, when Pascal called Chock a "stalker," what he was really saying was "you're doing better with Joan than I am. That's why I'm coming for you."
The narcissist's insults can be decoded. If an egomaniac like this puts down another person's looks, they're comparing themselves to them and feeling insecure. If they cut someone down for doing a bad job, it's because they're competent - it's a way of reining them in and dimming their light. Just flip the script to get an instant "translation."
With every narcissist, it's the same. This disorder is everywhere in the reality TV world, and those who have it all act the same way. It's a Trump-ian kind of bravado that can be entertaining despite its inherent toxicity. It's the carnie trying to put one over on a "mark." The true narcissist considers their victims "suckers."
Time will tell if The Golden Bachelorette's Pascal's a "real" narcissist or just an honest man who isn't afraid to share his truth. However, the way that he's hogging the spotlight lately seems to speak volumes. He's basking in his fame - a definite red flag. If he keeps trashing people to stay relevant, he'll be ticking all the boxes. The ugly egos of narcissists detract from their charm, which is often considerable. They can't stay jolly for very long, and that's why they always get villain edits in the end.
