"I'll bring the sparkle" The Bachelor Grant Ellis meets Litia and 24 other potential matches 

The Bachelor's Grant Ellis is a 30-year-old Houston-based day trader who previously participated in Season 21 of The Bachelorette. He is the latest addition to the franchise's 29th season. Ellis is now in control and prepared to give romance another chance with 25 eager competitors after his earlier attempt to find love in Jenn Tran, didn't work out.

Before beginning the customary night-one celebrations at the Bachelor Mansion, the premiere featured a heartwarming moment between Grant and his father. Another personal element was added to the evening's events when Grant's sister Taylor unexpectedly appeared in the middle of the show, armed with his baby pictures.

Before the first rose ceremony, the mansion buzzed with anticipation as women pulled out all the stops to catch Grant's attention, with Litia who is supposedly "really bad at basketball" presenting Grant with a bedazzled basketball, telling him:

"If you bring the skill, I'll bring the sparkle."

Despite the usual night-one jitters, the atmosphere remained surprisingly drama-free, though season previews hint at storms brewing on the horizon.

The Bachelor’s Grant Ellis meets the season’s contestants

The arrivals set the tone for the evening, with each contestant bringing their unique flair. Carolina grabbed attention by delivering her entire introduction in Spanish, while Alli Jo won points for creativity with a "pizza" heart gesture. Radhika brought her culture to the forefront by teaching Grant a Bollywood dance.

Perhaps the most eye-catching entrance came from Alexe, who arrived with an unexpected companion - her llama, Linda, who Grant initially mistook for a donkey.

Other standout moments from this episode of The Bachelor included Sarafiena's oversized cardboard cutout of Grant's head, Kyleigh's thoughtful chips and salsa offering, and wedding planner Savannah's on-theme wedding cake presentation. Vicky also made her mark with a neon sign declaring "Viva Las Vicky."

The evening took an interesting turn when Allyshia, who had declared she doesn't kiss on first dates, became the first to share a kiss with Grant. Juliana followed suit after a heartfelt conversation about family and past relationships, setting the romantic tone for the night.

The surprise appearance of Grant's sister Taylor initially caused a stir as she entered unannounced during the cocktail party. Rather than adding drama, she brought warmth to the evening by sharing childhood stories and getting to know the contestants, offering insights into Grant's character and background.

What happened during the Rose Ceremony?

The coveted first impression rose - which this season comes with the bonus of the first one-on-one date - went to Alexe. Grant praised her beauty, intelligence, and humour.

The night concluded with eighteen women receiving roses: Litia, Rose, Zoe, Ella, Alli Jo, Natalie, Juliana, Vicky, Carolina, Beverly, Bailey, Dina, Chloie, Rebekah, Sarafiena, Allyshia, Parisa, and first impression rose recipient Alexe. Seven contestants bid farewell, marking the first elimination of the season.

This comparatively peaceful opening night of The Bachelor may be the quiet before the storm, as fans were given a preview of the drama to come as the premiere came to a close. Grant Ellis sets out on his mission to find his ideal match among the remaining contestants on Monday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC, continuing the search for love.

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The Bachelor broadcasts on ABC every Monday at 8 p.m. PT/ET.