Clothing Is “Optional” For Bachelorette Suitors This Season, According to Jesse Palmer
When ABC said Gabby Windey and Rachel Recchia’s season of The Bachelorette would feature double the trouble, they weren’t kidding.
In a season 19 cast photo, one muscular man appears shirtless alongside the other contestants, leaving Bachelor Nation to wonder what happened that night. “At these arrivals, it looks like clothes are no longer required,” joked E! News host Jesse Palmer.
Clothing appears to be optional—period. When asked how much skin the contestant bared, Jesse confirmed that there was more to see. “I don’t think this particular gentleman likes clothes,” he told E! I think he’d rather just bear it all. That’s how he comes across. “
But, as Jesse put it, this mysterious shirtless man isn’t the only one who makes a “legendary” entrance. “There were four-legged animals, two-legged animals, magic tricks, and forklifts,” teased the former Bachelor. “It really ran the gamut.”
Even though there were a lot of animals in the first episode of Bachelor Nation, the forklift seems to be a first.
But that’s to be expected for this historic season, in which two women are looking for love at the same time.
There was a learning curve as Gabby and Rachel had to figure out the best way to approach their metaphorical journeys.
“I think they deserve a lot of credit for taking control,” Jesse said. “They made their own rules at times, they ventured into uncharted territory, but I think the most important thing about Rachel and Gabby is that they have tremendous support for one another.”
Naturally, dating the same man presents some challenges.
Jesse would not confirm or deny whether the girls had a crush on one of the guys, but he did hint that there would be “unexpected” obstacles to overcome.
“They’re not competing for anything,” he explained, “but there had to be some raw, serious, and honest conversations.”
He actually learned the value of communication during his time as a bachelor in 2002. He reflected on his growth since season five, saying, “I think the show really helps you tap into your own vulnerability.”
And, as a former NFL player, embracing his sensitive side wasn’t easy. “I came from a locker room culture where you weren’t supposed to show weakness or ask for help,” he explained.
“This franchise has shown me, and I believe many other guys who watch, that it’s ok to be vulnerable, and it’s important to be that way and open yourself up, especially to someone you really love and care about.”
Despite his rocky relationship with final rose winner Jessica Bowlin, he’s found love with Emely Palmer, whom he’ll marry in 2021.