A week ago, Americans sat on their couches with anxious anticipation as to who the next Bachelor will be. Twitter feeds were blowing up with #TeamLuke or #TeamChase posts. It seemed that Bachelor nation (including myself) was only aware of two possible candidates for the role - leading to a surprise that would shock the nation... It was neither of them. The lucky man who will become the Bachelor in 2017 is none other than two time Bachelorette alum, Nick Viall. To quote one of my favorite musicals, Hamilton, "the world turned upside down." People were completely shocked - we didn't see this coming. Despite the mixed reviews with Nick becoming the next bachelor, I do think that he will do a great job. Here's why:
First off, this isn't his first rodeo. Nick first appeared on The Bachelorette as a contestant on Andi's season - finishing runner up. He then appeared on the Bachelorette AGAIN as a contestant on Kaitlyn's season. This sparked a lot of drama about his character, because he didn't join the show until the season had already started. He also got runner up on this season as well. These two seasons painted Nick as the villain in as many ways as possible, but we'll get more into that later. The point I'm trying to make is that Nick is experienced in how this process works. Therefore, the producers likely viewed him as someone who will be comfortable in the spot light and won't need to be coached as much as others. This choice will also allow for fewer slip ups throughout the season due to Nick's experience and age.
Nick will also make a great bachelor because he has worked really hard to show the world who he really is. As I previously mentioned, the past two seasons of The Bachelorette portrayed him as the villain. While I admit that sometimes he said the wrong thing - I mean he's only human - there were many moments where I believe the show edited him to appear that way. Therefore, leaving Bachelor nation with no reason to love him. However, this season on Bachelor in Paradise showed who Nick truly was. He is kind and sensible with a good head on his shoulders. He genuinely cares about other people and treats them with the respect they deserve. He approaches any argument calmly and doesn't start drama. Not to mention, he just really wants to find love. That's all he wants. After this season, fan responses towards him have definitely been more positive. They are finally seeing all of his great attributes - which is amazing. Not to mention, that man is gorgeous.
All in all, I am very excited to see Nick find love on the Bachelor. I hope he finds someone who will love him for all eternity. The poor man has gotten runner up too many times, so it's time that he finds love too. And if you are reading this and don't like Nick Viall - I understand. However, please give him a chance. I think he has the ability to surprise America with how genuine he is, so give him the opportunity to show you that. I am so so excited for his season to start! January cannot come soon enough.