Alexe Godin, a 27-year-old pediatric speech therapist from New Brunswick, Canada, caught Grant Ellis' eye and won the coveted first impression rose in the remarkably drama-free debut of The Bachelor's 29th season.
The rural Canadian departed with more than just a rose and the promise of the season's first one-on-one date after making an impression with an unusual companion—a white llama called Linda. Grant, 31, told Alexe while presenting the rose:
"I really enjoyed our time tonight,"
He elaborated:
"Aside from being beautiful, I think that you're funny, you're smart, you're intelligent and I had a great time."
The moment culminated in their first kiss, marking the beginning of what appears to be a promising connection on the show.
The day trader's choice stood out during a premiere that broke from tradition, featuring genuine emotions rather than the usual night-one conflicts. As Grant embarks on his search for love after his previous appearance on The Bachelorette, Alexe's authentic approach and "no-drama llama" set the tone for what might be a uniquely sincere season.
When The Bachelor’s Grant met Alexe (and her llama)
Alexe's farm girl roots shone through in her memorable entrance. She explained to a smiling Grant:
"Canadians are known to be some of the friendliest people in the world,"
Continuing:
"so I thought, 'Why not introduce you to my no-drama llama?'"
The unique introduction clearly hit its mark with the Bachelor, who later revealed to Entertainment Weekly:
"Yeah, I'm a big animal guy, so I thought that was a really unique entrance. It was really funny. It showed her character and it showed her personality. It really stood out to me."
The French-speaking animal lover's authenticity resonated with Grant throughout the evening. After receiving the rose, Alexe shared her feelings in a confessional:
"I am so happy. It's validating that he's seeing me for who I am and enjoying my little quirks."
The connection between Grant and Alexe appears to deepen as the season progresses.
A December trailer revealed a romantic one-on-one date featuring Grant serenading Alexe at a grand piano. Her reaction suggests the gesture left quite an impression:
"I am not used to dating emotional guys that write you songs and play the piano," she confessed.
Declaring:
"I'm having the best time of my life."
The season preview also hints at Grant's serious intentions. "I'm ready to get married," he declared, elaborating:
"I'm ready to find my wife. I'm ready to have kids. I'm ready for everything."
What to expect from the rest of the season?
While the premiere maintained its peaceful atmosphere - thanks partly to Linda the No Drama Llama - the season trailer suggests future tensions.
A heated exchange between contestants Dina Lupancu and Carolina Quixano points to brewing conflicts, with Dina telling Carolina, "You act like you don't care," before later declaring, "I guess I'm crazy and evil."
Grant starts his adventure with 18 ladies competing for his heart after he narrows down his options at the rose ceremony. However, it's evident that Alexe has already left a lasting impact, distinguishing herself not just with her distinctive entrance but also with her sincere nature and innate affinity for the Bachelor.
Whether Linda's peaceful influence continues to reign over the mansion remains to be seen, but one thing's certain: this season of The Bachelor promises both romance and reality TV drama in equal measure.
The Bachelor airs on ABC on Mondays at 8 p.m. PT/ET.
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