"The Bachelor" this week was full of romantic quotes and sweet moments -- then, one contestant came and pulled the rug out from under everything.
This episode was more dramatic than some Best Picture nominees. I know I've been critical of ABC's series of Rose Ceremonies in the past, but this episode I really actually felt for both Jake Pavelka and Ali.
So let's dive right into the issue at hand (we'll get back to the hometown dates in a moment). Ali ended up leaving the show (and Jake) for work. Is it a mistake? I probably wouldn't have done it (love can only come around once in a lifetime), but I'm not in the advertising business. My sister has a degree in it, and I know first-hand how competitive it can be.
By the same token, I think it's also fair for us to realize that Ali's job may have not even known she was on "The Bachelor" at the time of its filming. Many reality shows ask you to not disclose what you're doing to anyone, even your employers. She may have been on a personal trip, as far as they knew, and they wanted her back as soon as possible.
Regardless of the reasoning behind it, Jake's face said it all: shock, disappointment, and heartbreak. If it wasn't for the fact that he was dating three other women at the same time, I think everyone in America would be sending him cards with our condolences.
What really made the moment with Ali even tougher was that her hometown date easily was one of the most touching to watch. The two of them went up to Massachusetts and toured the home of Ali's grandma. There was a natural chemistry there, and the family seemed to all really love and appreciate her.
As for the other hometown dates, they all ranged from "fun" to awkward. Gia's family was naturally protective, but I've always been a fan of the large New York family and this made her segment the most entertaining for me. The dance Tenley performed for Jake was moving, and her family genuinely seemed to love her and was open to Jake in spite of Tenley's recent divorce.
However, Vienna's bit definitely took the cake in terms of drama. Her father scared the living daylights out of me, and he seemed to have such a close relationship with his daughter that he would throw you into the ocean if you did one thing to slight her.
Based on these dates alone, I would give the edge to Tenley since her relationship to Jake (along with her family's) seemed to be the most natural. However, this entire season now could be about "the one who got away." Jake may have actually chosen Ali in the end! He suggested to her when she was mulling the decision that she really wasn't in danger of going home this week -- personally I'm betting Vienna and Gia were probably the two most on the hot seat.
Next week, the final three are heading to St. Lucia! Of course, there's still one big surprise waiting for them: Ali is calling Jake for some reason. I think it's possible she wants back on the show, but I don't really think it'll happen.
Who do you think is on the fast track to win "The Bachelor?" Feel free to share your thoughts and stay tuned for more TV news.
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Comments
I think Gia was definitely on the hot seat last night, if Ali wouldn't have left. I think her family and background are just too different from Jake's.
I (it gags me to say this...) fear that the "spoiler sites" are going to end up being right. Even though Tenley seems to be best-suited for him and her family the most traditional – again, most like Jake's... I think he actually may end up with Vienna in the end. If he does, however, I don't think they will end up getting married.
Jake is a weiner....Ali is way too much of a woman for him...and if at the end he does pick Vienna...then we all know why that crybaby is still single! WAY TO GO ALI!!!!
It is so sad that the other girls tried to warn Jake about Vienna the same way that Jake tried to warn Jill about the so called singer.....Jake and Ali make the cutiest couple, they both have such a cute way about them. OH Well. Jake, man up, open you eyes and get Ali back!!!!!
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