Bachelor Nation has been known for having its fair share of controversial contestants and final picks. However, when it comes to choosing the franchise’s lead, it is usually a straightforward decision. Clare Crawley’s announcement as the newest lead for The Bachelorette in March 2020 came as a shock to many fans. Crawley had not been on a Bachelor series or its spinoffs since 2018, making her an unexpected choice.
Typically, the next Bachelor or Bachelorette is chosen from the final four contestants, often the No. 3 runner-up. Crawley’s selection was a departure from this norm. Before her, there have been four seasons of The Bachelorette and three seasons of The Bachelor that surprised diehard watchers of the series with unexpected leads. Becca Kufrin, for example, surprised viewers when she took on the role of The Bachelorette after winning her season of The Bachelor. Arie Luyendyk Jr. also made a controversial decision when he initially picked Kufrin and later pursued his runner-up, Lauren Burnham, whom he eventually married.
Nick Viall is another memorable lead in Bachelor Nation history. Viall took on the coveted role after appearing on The Bachelorette twice, creating a divide between viewers who supported him and those who were rooting for Luke Pell. Another unique casting twist occurred in 2015 when there were two Bachelorettes, Britt Nilsson and Kaitlyn Bristowe, and the men voted to move forward with one of them.
Going back a few years, fans will remember Emily Maynard’s journey as a Bachelorette. Maynard was brought back to the show after her win, but she later split from Brad Womack. Womack’s return as a lead was also unexpected as he had let go of both of his final two women in his previous season. He then came back to the franchise four years later to give it another try. These surprising lead choices have kept Bachelor Nation viewers on their toes, always wondering what unexpected twist might come next in the franchise.
Despite the controversies and unexpected choices in lead selections, Bachelor Nation continues to be a popular and beloved reality TV franchise. Fans eagerly anticipate each season to see who will be chosen as the next Bachelor or Bachelorette. The series has a dedicated following of viewers who tune in to watch the romantic journeys unfold, regardless of the unexpected twists and turns that may occur. Whether it’s a fan-favorite contestant or a surprising newcomer, Bachelor Nation remains loyal to the show and its ever-evolving cast of characters.
In conclusion, the history of unexpected lead choices in Bachelor Nation has added an element of surprise and intrigue to the franchise. From Clare Crawley’s surprising selection as the oldest Bachelorette in history to past leads like Becca Kufrin, Arie Luyendyk Jr., and Nick Viall, each season brings new twists and turns that keep fans engaged. Whether it’s a controversial contestant or a shocking final pick, Bachelor Nation continues to be one of the most beloved reality TV franchises, captivating audiences with its romantic escapades and unexpected casting choices.
