The Bachelor Season-Finale Recap: Pick Me

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In the quietness of my bedroom following the “After the Final Rose” episode, I folded my hands and offered a humble plea. To whom did I address this silent conversation? It could have been God, or perhaps the spirit of Joseph Smith, engrossed in his gold plates somewhere in Missouri. Maybe it was the future producer of “The Bachelor,” if this current “Bachelorette” season turns into an all-out war. Could Beyoncé intervene? I hoped so. But as I closed my eyes, I whispered my fervent wish: “Dearest Universe, the ‘Bachelor’ nation has endured too much. Yearning for love, for elegance, for two genuine leads in succession. May this be the last time I beseech you with my prayers. No more leads who didn’t make it past the Hometowns. No more, Universe!!!! Banish it! Expel it! Banish it? Expel it? Punish it? Punish it? Throw a massive stone at it!

On more than one occasion, I’ve made this point clear: If the main character hasn’t progressed to the Hometowns stage, it could result in a disappointing season. Here’s the reasoning behind that: Colton, Clayton, Matt James, Katie Thurston, Jenn. You might find yourself questioning, “But what about Hannah Brown?” Indeed, Hannah was an engaging and competent lead, but let’s not forget Jed and his pursuit of a music career.

Instead, the problem isn’t just about these leads selecting the wrong person (many did make that mistake); it’s primarily about how they didn’t have sufficient control over the course of their seasons. This includes underestimating obvious contestants with ulterior motives, overreacting to seemingly logical reservations among the final few, or misinterpreting their role as the lead altogether.

The situation between Grant and Litia, along with Clayton’s actions, highlights a common problem among leads who don’t progress past the initial stages. These individuals often struggle to comprehend the depth of emotions involved in the Fantasy Suites or Final Dates because they hadn’t experienced them firsthand. To put it simply, they haven’t journeyed far enough in the process to truly understand the intensity and authenticity of the feelings that contestants harbor. For instance, Clayton, who expressed love to three women, slept with multiple contestants, and struggled with emotional aftermath, likely failed to grasp the gravity of genuine emotions due to his premature exit. It appears that leads who don’t reach the later stages may underestimate the sincerity of feelings among contestants, assuming that everyone moves on just as quickly. Unfortunately, these leads seem unaware that part of their responsibility is to navigate the season with minimal emotional turmoil for all involved parties.

That’s why everyone adored Joey so much. He didn’t want others to experience the same emotional turmoil he felt at the end of Charity’s season. Similarly, Grant was taken aback when he thought Litia might have believed they were getting engaged, and every woman eliminated was left feeling caught off guard, right up to the runner-up.

As a film enthusiast, diving right into that extended three-hour wrap-up felt like immersing myself in a cinematic epic – one that, to be honest, might’ve been more effectively communicated via an email.

In last week’s episode, it seemed as though this week’s beginning was a repeat for many viewers, including myself, as Litia appeared in Grant’s family’s hotel room after teleporting. Did anyone else find Grant looking unhappy upon Litia meeting his relatives? As children, my siblings and I would accompany our grandma on visits to her friends’ homes for coffee cake, often spending hours waiting for her to finish chatting with friends like Sheila. It appears that Grant is displaying a similar expression of boredom, much like my brothers and I would during those lengthy conversations at Sheila’s house.

As a movie reviewer, let me express my thoughts: In the heartwarming drama unfolding, we find Grant sharing an unexpected revelation about Litia – she’s not all about physical beauty, and instead, leads with emotional depth. Fast-forward to a conversation between Litia and Grant’s mom, where Litia candidly declares her readiness to become Grant’s new mother, even going as far as tracking her basal body temperature to pave the way for grandchildren. I can’t help but wonder if she’s getting ahead of herself!

Litia then surprises us again when she sits down with Grant’s dad and discusses the joys of parenthood, revealing that she’s already taking folic acid and iron to prepare for children. However, she assures him there’s no need to hurry. This woman is determined!

Grant’s dad seems to sense Litia’s unwavering commitment to their relationship, which leaves me curious about the texts his mom will send to her friends once this scene aired. It’s as if Litia is standing tall and ready to take on the world – or in this case, a new family!

Afterward, Grant makes it clear that his choice not to select Litia was due to his desire to live as an influencer for a few years before starting a family. This explains why he felt he couldn’t enjoy his 20s and wants to “live his life” for three to four years without children first. His father advises him not to let one issue halt everything, but having kids seems like a significant matter worth pausing for in Grant’s perspective.

During the entire episode, it’s evident that Litia is confident she will get engaged soon, as long as she navigates the next few days successfully. She constantly expresses her strong affection for Grant by saying “I love you so much” and interrupting him to complete his statements of love. At one instance, she even exclaimed, “Pick me!” during their conversation about engagement. Although it’s understandable that Litia is enthusiastic, please, Litia. And poor Grant seems rather unhappy. On my show, a Volkswagen commercial featuring the song “Are You Having Any Fun?” was playing, which seemed to directly target Grant’s situation.

It’s time for Juliana to meet Grant’s family, and she responds to every query with an enthusiastic, “What a fantastic question!” Additionally, her tan lines are quite unusual. Juliana, it would be wise to lay off the SPF 3 oil. Grant’

Grant’s father is curious about the kind of food they can expect at family gatherings. “Are we talking meat sauce, marinara, or Karen’s ziti?” Grant expresses his affection for Juliana’s dad and is eager for the fathers to spend time together. Juliana engages in a conversation with Grant’s mother, who probingly asks whether they’ve expressed their love for each other. Essentially, she advises Juliana to step back if she can’t say “I love you,” allowing Litia to take charge of raising her son again. Wisely, Juliana asks Grant’s father a question about how Grant manages stress, which he appreciates.

Later on, Grant joins his father for a much-anticipated discussion, one they both needed for quite some time. Grant’s dad shares that he trusts Juliana with Grant, which seems to be a significant factor for her. In response, Grant expresses how meaningful it is to have his father as a confidant and engage in heartfelt conversation. His dad acknowledges Grant’s growth into a commendable man, despite his past struggles, and shares that he intends to stay by Grant’s side permanently. This heartwarming moment brings tears to my eyes, knowing Robert’s affection for his son. While it’s touching, I can’t help but wonder if Grant holds an idealized image of his father and harbors some unresolved feelings towards his mother. If he hasn’t already, I hope he addresses these complex emotions in therapy.

Grant joins Juliana and expresses his affection for her. Juliana acknowledges his feelings and desires their relationship to continue in the future. They share a passionate kiss, a connection he can’t seem to find with Litia.

It appears we’re dealing with a panel featuring past leaders who seem to have had romantic relationships with multiple individuals. Could that be the case? As for Clayton, his hairstyle leaves much to be desired, while Charity is quite stunning.

Moving on to the crucial final dates segment. First up is Juliana, and Grant mentions the significance of this evening’s events, which leaves me wondering, “Why? What details are you seeking?” Throughout their interaction, she frequently refers to him as her boyfriend, and he reciprocates by calling her his girlfriend. He attempts to create a minor stir by suggesting that she had been evading her feelings of love. Well, alright then. Let’s see how it unfolds.

Now it’s time for Litia’s last date, and she’s brimming with excitement. I suspect she believes he might pop the question today. Let’s get this over with. She’s being quite intense. They’re on horseback, and she shares with him that horses, her grandmother, the ocean, and him are her most cherished things. He’s making an effort to get through the day, but… he no longer feels for Litia. During the evening part of the date, he sits rigidly and quietly, perhaps hoping that her perception is based on movement and she won’t notice his presence. Litia continues to gush about how the affection he holds for her matches the love she’s always known she deserves, and it’s the love that has taught her how to love. Then she reveals she’s never expressed “I love you” to anyone before, and if you turn up the volume, you can almost hear his discomfort escalate to the point where it could transform coal into a diamond. I also observed in this conversation that he stopped responding to every “I love you,” and when she exclaims “PICK ME!” with frenzy in her eyes, he simply replies, “You’re amusing.” “You’re funny” without laughter is a man’s expression of disdain.

The following day, his father visits his hotel room for a discussion. He’s grappling with a dilemma: he finds it challenging to choose between Juliana and Litia. To put it simply, he questions how he can select Juliana when she seems like the ideal choice based on paper qualifications, but he feels drawn to Litia. Moreover, when he ponders over “a woman who’s 31, knows what she wants, and will be there for me,” versus “a woman with whom I have a lot of fun,” it’s hard to imagine any man with a lone-wolf tattoo and an earring choosing the responsible, career-oriented woman.

The moment has come for Grant to choose, and the question is whom to approach first. While watching an episode, my mom phoned me, and we both understood that if Grant declines proposing to Lita, he’s essentially admitting that he isn’t fully prepared for a family and this significant commitment. By not selecting Lita, he’s subtly going against his self-image as a Good Man who yearns for a Family and aims to be a Father and Husband. He desires these roles… but not quite yet.

Before moving on to the main topic, let me say this: Both ladies are stunningly beautiful. They’re wearing two of the finest proposal gowns that we’ve seen in a while. Interestingly enough, Kim Kardashian is set to reveal her plastic surgeon, Dr. Litia, during her next visit.

When Lita arrives first, a sigh of discontent echoes among the spectators. Lita’s dress makes it difficult for her to walk, adding to the painful anticipation. She reaches the proposal gazebo, and Grant, why must you continue KISSING HER? STOP KISSING HER! Lita begins her speech about creating a home for their children, expressing how he’s taught her the essence of love, and wishing to be loved in that manner forever. Grant initially mentions seeking an emotional bond, and Lita interjects, “Yes, you do have that.” Eventually, Grant admits that she is not his match, which is a heartbreaking statement, and he reveals stronger emotional ties elsewhere.

The concept of Mormon/fundamentalist women adopting a baby-like tone as a means to emphasize their femininity towards the men in their societies has been extensively discussed. This tone is often characterized as sweet, submissive, and innocent. However, in this particular moment, Litia challenges this norm. She doesn’t give Grant an inch during this conversation or any other in this episode. Instead of adopting a baby-like demeanor, she asks direct questions that catch Grant off guard. This was not a good reason for him to keep from her, especially considering his off-camera conversations. Additionally, he expresses hope that she doesn’t view him differently due to his actions, but Litia responds with a laugh and says, “Come on, now!” – a clear indication of her disapproval. Hahaha! It’s refreshing to see Litia standing up for herself!

Litia expresses her disappointment and chooses to avoid questioning topics that might upset Juliana’s feelings. She also states, “Juliana is a lovely woman who deserves love, and I would be curious if I were in her position. It’s up to you to navigate those matters; they aren’t my concern.” Haha! What a thoughtful friend, Litia!

As he exits, he inquires if she feels deceived. What’s behind this action? It’s a foolish move on Grant’s part. Litia remarks that everything he said up until now makes the sudden change absurd. I particularly like how she expresses her anger. Absolutely! This would make anyone angry!

In this current live episode, Litia faces off with Grant. She expresses her feelings of being taken aback by the situation. She recounts every word that Grant spoke to her. On the second night, he promised to halt the show for her. The eve before their engagement, she exclaimed, “Wow, we’re getting engaged tomorrow!”, and he replied, “I’m thrilled! I love you! I love you! I love you!” She also shares that it hurt the most because she tried to keep her hopes in check and urged Grant not to make promises as things can change within the show’s setting, but he persisted. Moreover, she says he overstepped boundaries. As for “he went out of bounds,” it means he acted beyond what is considered acceptable or appropriate in a relationship. Lastly, when Litia mentioned that she felt pressure to match where he was, it means she felt the need to catch up emotionally with him. In the show, you can see Juliana writing in a journal at one point during the episode.

In simpler terms, Grant emerges, and Litia confronts him about his actions and words to escalate the emotional tension. His only response is an apology for causing pain, which while kind, isn’t sufficient. She asks why he did it, what was going through his mind, and wonders why he would do this to her, considering their serious intentions towards marriage and children. Litia suggests that Grant seemed to be trying not to lose her, so he kept asking for more and more promises. At one point, Grant admits that it’s difficult for him to separate different aspects of his life, but insists that’s not the problem. They had agreed to get engaged (with unspecified words exchanged during their overnight), and he never hinted at potential changes. Litia feels that Grant doesn’t understand the problem, and he acknowledges that he can’t push back strongly because it wouldn’t look good.

At the end of the discussion, Litia expresses her eagerness that this would be their final conversation on the topic, saying something like, “This is our last chat about this, and I’m really looking forward to it!

At this point, it’s clear that Grant is making a significant shift towards Juliana, and I must admit, I had a feeling about this from early in the series. It seems that Grant chose Juliana for her youth and flexibility in scheduling, which would likely allow him to maintain a dominant role in their relationship. He has always sought someone to rescue, but Litia was not a candidate for salvation. They announce their engagement and with a final “Wolf Pack baby!” they ride off together towards the sunset.

After the interaction, it didn’t really reveal much. However, Juliana is someone who communicates her joyful feelings in a high-pitched, almost squeaky tone.

It appears they’re joyful together, hinting at a deep affection. I find it disappointing that no one refers to individuals by their names in this portion; instead, we have “this woman” or “this man.” It seems like everyone is being reduced to mere objects until the very end! ABC is sending them to Italy, but who cares? They’re about to relocate to Boston. Grant, allow me to share a piece of my personal insight: it’s a risky move.

Swift recap: Zoe’s fabulous hair is bouncing. She’s off to Paradise. Similarly, Leslie and Gary from the “Golden” series will join her there! The “Golden” crew are bound for Paradise too! Here’s hoping a 23-year-old finds affection for one of the “Golden” contestants. I don’t mind the genders (though I do have a preference). See you in Paradise!

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2025-03-25 22:55