The premiere of The Bachelor was last night, and Grant Ellis finally met the 25 women who are vying for his love.

As fans might remember, Grant was one of the contestants of The Bachelorette, and his relationship with Jenn Tran didn’t work out. But now, he has a new chance to find love again.

This first episode was incredibly fun, and a surprise appearance made everything all the more exciting.

A mystery woman showed up to spice things up, and of course, the night ended with Grant handing out roses to his favorite contestants.

Grant Ellis Met The Women Vying For His Heart

The first Bachelor episode was surprisingly drama-free compared to others, but of course, nothing can ever be that simple in reality TV.

The women, for the most part, seemed to be getting along, but when it came to the point of seeing who would get to kiss Grant first, things got a little tense.

In a not-so-surprising turn of events, it was Allyshia, who had previously said she never kissed guys on the first date, who got the first kiss, and the rest of the contestants gave her the side eye.

However, she might have been the first, but her kiss wasn’t the most emotionally charged moment of the evening.

Juliana and Grant shared a beautiful moment in which they opened up about their family history and past relationships. In case you don’t remember, Grant opened up to Jenn last year about his father’s struggles and sobriety, so of course, it was an intense moment that ended in a tender kiss.

Of course, nothing is set in stone, but it’s safe to say The Bachelor is up to an exciting start.

A Surprise Appearance Changed Everything

Other than the usual jealousy and competition, things seemed to be mostly peaceful during the premiere. That is until a surprise appearance disrupted the calm.

In the middle of an enjoyable and relaxed cocktail party, an unknown woman pulled over in a limo and a stunning dress and made her way into the mansion, not bothering to acknowledge anyone other than Grant.

The contestants (and the audience) held their breath while the production kept her face hidden for a good while, including when she asked Grant if he’d kissed anyone yet.

As everyone wondered who she was – an old crush? An ex-girlfriend? – it’s finally revealed that the mystery woman’s name is Taylor, and she’s none other than Grant’s sister.

The tension lifts after that, and Taylor joins the cocktail party, adding to the fun by humiliating her brother like any good sibling should.

She produced baby pictures, told childhood stories, and spoke honestly about her brother’s relationship history.

In the end, 18 out of the 25 women will be staying in the race. Grant decided to give the first impression rose to Alexe, but also gave out roses to Litia, Rose, Zoe, Ella, Alli Jo, Natalie, Vicky, Carolina, Beverly, Bailey, Dina, Chloie, Rebekah, Sarafiena, Parisa, and of course, to his kisses, Juliana and Allyshia.

Tune in next week to see what’s next in Grant’s journey to finding true love.

The Bachelor airs every Monday at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

The Bachelor

Release Date

March 25, 2002

Network

Channel 5, BBC Three

Writers

Mike Fleiss