The Bachelor Season 29 has just wrapped up, leaving fans excitedly speculating about potential leads for the upcoming season of The Bachelorette. Although ABC has temporarily paused the series, it is anticipated that it will return in due time. Several standout contestants from Grant Ellis’s season could be excellent choices to take on the lead role. Grant, a 31-year-old day trader and former basketball player, ultimately proposed to 28-year-old Juliana Pasquarosa but eliminated a number of remarkable women along the journey. Among the contestants who were let go, several possess the traits necessary to captivate audiences as the next lead.
Prior to his tenure on The Bachelor, Grant was a participant on Jenn Tran’s season of The Bachelorette. Since news broke that the franchise was on hold because of scheduling conflicts, the show’s host, Jess Palmer, has assured fans that the pause won’t be indefinite. When production resumes, there’s a strong possibility that the new lead will be selected from the contestants who were eliminated this season. Fortunately for fans of Bachelor Nation, Grant’s season featured numerous compelling women. Here’s a look at six contestants who could make fantastic leading ladies.
6 Bailey Brown
27 Years Old
Eliminated by Grant during the third week, 27-year-old Bailey Brown, a model and social media manager from Atlanta, Georgia, made a lasting impression on viewers. Her undeniable confidence was a standout trait, making her comfortable in her own skin. If The Bachelorette returns, Bailey would undoubtedly shine as the lead, bringing her adventurous spirit and certainty in what she desires to the forefront of the show.
5 Sarafiena Watkins
29 Years Old
Sarafiena Watkins, a 29-year-old associate media director from Connecticut, was cut during week five, despite her popularity among fellow contestants. Unfortunately, Grant never fully recognized her potential. Sarafiena demonstrated her desire for a family and emotional connection, which is vital for a lead, especially on The Bachelorette. Her ability to connect on an emotional level makes her a strong candidate for the role.
4 Zoe McGrady
27 Years Old
Despite being one of the last three contestants, 27-year-old tech engineer and model Zoe McGrady was often overlooked by Grant throughout the season. She was notably the only finalist who did not have a solo date, making her sudden hometown date appearance surprising. Though eliminated before the final two, she would be a dynamic lead for future seasons.
As announced during the season finale by host Jesse Palmer, Zoe is set to appear as the first contestant on the upcoming Paradise season. This could complicate her eligibility for a leading role in The Bachelorette, but it’s still a possibility.
3 Litia Garr
31 Years Old
Litia Garr, 31, approached her final rose ceremony with high expectations, believing she would receive Grant’s rose. Feeling assured due to Grant’s repeated affirmations, she was caught off-guard when he chose Juliana instead. In her discussion with Jesse and Grant, Litia recounted how Grant had led her to believe she was the one.
“I can’t believe we’re getting engaged tomorrow,”
Litia shared that she confidently expressed this to Grant the night before; he eagerly agreed. As a contestant who has already been vulnerable and demonstrated a strong willingness to love, Litia deserves another chance, making her an excellent fit for the next Bachelorette.
2 Dina Lupancu
31 Years Old
Dina Lupancu, also 31, had strong chemistry with Grant, and he valued her opinions during the season. Their bond appeared solid, and she was a favorite among viewers. However, her elimination post-hometown visit marked a heartbreaking turn. Dina hails from a large, tight-knit family that mirrors Grant’s values. Unfortunately, after her parents declined to meet Grant during a crucial visit, he decided to remove her from the show. Considering her great qualities, Dina is more than deserving of another chance at love.
1 Alexe Godin
27 Years Old
Grant’s connection with Alexe Godin, a charming 27-year-old speech therapist, was evident from the premiere of Season 29, as he awarded her the coveted first impression rose. Alexe, who grew up on a farm and loves animals, captured his attention immediately, especially when she arrived at the mansion accompanied by a llama. Their shared experiences with non-traditional families led to a profound connection during their first solo date, where they explored an empty mall together.
Despite their promising start, their bond gradually waned, and Grant ended up eliminating Alexe before the hometown visits. Her vibrant personality and unique charm would make for a captivating season if she were to step into the lead role for The Bachelorette.
|
Bailey Brown |
27 Years Old |
|
Sarafiena Watkins |
29 Years Old |
|
Zoe McGrady |
27 Years Old |
|
Litia Garr |
31 Years Old |
|
Dina Lupancu |
31 Years Old |
|
Alexe Godin |
27 Years Old |
The Bachelor Seasons 1-29 are available for streaming on Hulu.