Zoe McGrady, a 27-year-old model and technology engineer, reached the final three in season 29 of The Bachelor with Grant Ellis. Although she was one of the standout contestants, her journey was quite unconventional, as she was the only finalist without a solo date throughout the season. Despite this, Zach’s choice to give her a hometown date came as a surprise, leading to many questions about their connection.
Upon their first encounter, it was clear that Grant would have noticed Zoe’s striking presence. While they shared brief moments during group dates, such as a basketball game, Zoe opted for a low-key approach, allowing Grant to pursue her instead. This strategy was particularly bold in a competitive reality TV environment where assertiveness often dictates success. Ultimately, her calmer demeanor paid off when she received one of Grant’s ultimate roses. Let’s explore what Zoe has been up to since her time on the show.
Zoe’s Journey on The Bachelor
Grant Barely Noticed Her
Throughout most of the season, it seemed Grant didn’t pay much attention to Zoe. Despite her progressing to the final three, the episodes often left viewers questioning their connection. Zoe’s lack of a solo date, coupled with limited interaction with Grant, made her presence easily forgettable. Yet, her advancement to the hometown dates and eventual elimination before the final two left fans intrigued.
Zoe’s Bonds With Fellow Contestants
A Natural Connector
Unlike several of her co-stars from season 29, Zoe fostered positive relationships with her fellow contestants. Notably, she formed a friendship with 31-year-old Dina Lupanco, who faced an unexpected elimination following her hometown date, which many believed she would navigate successfully. Grant’s discomfort with her parents’ reluctance to meet him ultimately influenced his decision to send her home, allowing Zoe to secure one of his final three roses instead.
Zoe’s Instagram showcases her camaraderie with various women from her season, including not only Dina but also familiar faces like 27-year-old Alexe Godin, 29-year-old Sarafiena Watkins, and 31-year-old Litia Garr. While drama was present throughout their journey, Zoe emerged as a beloved figure among her peers.
Upcoming Appearance on Bachelor In Paradise
The First Contestant Announced
During the finale of The Bachelor season 29, host Jesse Palmer revealed that Bachelor In Paradise season 10 is set to premiere this summer and announced Zoe as the inaugural contestant. With her inclusion in BIP, the likelihood of Zoe becoming The Bachelorette diminishes. Furthermore, Palmer introduced a major twist for the upcoming season: it will feature contestants from both The Golden Bachelor and The Golden Bachelorette, creating an exciting blend of ages and experiences.
Alongside Zoe, two contestants from the Golden series, Leslie Fhima and Gary Levingston, have also been confirmed for their return in Bachelor In Paradise. Gary, a 65-year-old retired finance executive, faced an early elimination during The Golden Bachelorette, while 65-year-old Leslie was a finalist on The Golden Bachelor.
First Three Bachelor In Paradise Contestants
| Zoe McGrady | 27 years old | The Bachelor season 29 |
| Gary Levingston | 65 years old | The Golden Bachelorette season 1 |
| Leslie Fhima | 65 years old | The Golden Bachelor season 1 |
For those interested in reliving the journey, full seasons of The Bachelor from 1 to 29 are available for streaming on Hulu.
Source: Zoe McGrady/Instagram