Even though it is officially the holiday season, Bachelor in Paradise is still airing on our screens for a few more weeks. I will keep this post spoiler free, but if you know the spoilers, you know the spoilers; however, today, I am going to give my thoughts on if some male contestants are the same, better, or worse after their stint on the show.
Jacob
I was not a Tarzan fan at the beginning of the season, although it made sense for him to be on the beach. I didn't expect him to be a hot commodity either, so I was surprised that he was involved in multiple love triangles. What surprised me the most was how he was funny, compassionate, and emotionally mature. I think he is better positioned in Bachelor Nation from his time on the show.
Johnny
We got absolutely nothing from Johnny during his time on The Bachelorette. He was kicked off the show just when we started to learn about his personality. Fortunately, he made his way to Geometry Beach. Johnny has become so sweet and endearing with his funny one-liners and surprisingly emotional scenes with Victoria. He gives the same chill vibes as Tyler Cameron, and although he might be younger and less established than his competition, I can't help but root for him and Victoria to make it. I have liked Johnny more since he arrived on the beach.
Rodney
I was already the biggest Rodney fan; it's no secret that he's the apple of most of our eyes. After his heartbreaking exit, it is solidified that he is one of the best contestants ever to hit the beach. He is so compassionate, kind, thoughtful, generous, and sweet. He has so much love to give. He deserves to be the next bachelor. Although he didn't have the paradise outcome he wanted, his status in Bachelor Nation has skyrocketed.
Aaron
Despite actions that would have landed anyone else in hot water, Aaron seems to dodge any honest criticism from fans for his behavior. I like that Aaron has been vulnerable as he has shown emotion in his conversations with Genevieve, which we have not seen from him before, so I think this time in Paradise has allowed him to show real growth. His status as the mayor of Bachelor Nation has remained unchanged.
Andrew
Andrew is a gem, and he has been nothing but supportive of his friends in Paradise. I always love when we hear him laughing in the background or when he's offering sage advice. Unfortunately, I do not think he's made a lasting connection on the beach. While we haven't gotten many scenes with him and Jessenia, I don't get forever vibes from them. Unfortunately, he hasn't had great luck on the beach because it's clear that he's a wonderful human. Andrew's status as beloved and well-liked hasn't changed from this season.
Justin
Despite being in the Final 2 for Katie's season, Justin never got the coverage he deserved. Our handsome, artistic, and funny Target enthusiast has proven to be a hot commodity on the beach this season, embroiled in two of the biggest love triangles. While the final triangle with Eliza has yet to be determined, the image of Justin's shocked face will live on in memes for years to come. I'm not sure if Justin's appearance on the season helped or hurt him. He's Justin-he'll be fine and stay fine. I will say that he handled each instance of rejection with grace and maturity.
Romeo
Romeo had a rough go of it in Paradise. Initially, he had a connection with Jill, which was thwarted by his past with Kira. He even got friend zoned by Britany at one point in the season; however, Kira returned to save the day! Even if their connection is just as friends, their hilarious will they/won't they content on social media has all of us tuned in. For these reasons, Romeo is a in a better position in Bachelor Nation due to his time on the show.
Michael A
Michael was probably the most beloved out of all the men on the beach this year. He has established a good relationship with Danielle, who is one of the most genuine women ever in Bachelor Nation, so I think he has accomplished his goal of finding love; however, some fans were upset about how he handled his breakup with Sierra and the perceived special treatment he has received from production. Despite those things, I am still Team Michael A, and based on proof that Michael and Danielle did attend Wells's wedding, I'd say Michael A is better off than when he came to the beach at the beginning of the season.
Logan
Logan has been on my radar since the Men Tell All episode of Gabby and Rachel's season, but I know it's taken the nation quite a while to warm up to Logan. After his tv girlfriend Kate called him a broke boy, he responded with a viral TikTok, and all of Bachelor Nation finally gets the Logan appeal. As of last week's episode, Logan's position in Bachelor Nation is steadily rising.
Brandon
Brandon was already everyone's favorite. We all felt heartbroken when he was left reeling after his breakup with Michelle. Despite his high status in Bachelor Nation, his appearance on the show has made him even more beloved. His immediate and instant connection with Serene has been beautiful to watch (what little crumbs we are given), and he seems to not only be in a great relationship, but he's also able to support his boys and be there for them, too.
While these are not the only men to grace the beaches, some of the others, like Rambo's owner, the twins, Rick, Alex, and Olu weren't given enough time for their appearances on the season to make a difference.
Stay tuned for Part II when I discuss the women from this season and whether they are better off or worse off from joining the cast.
Until next time!
Ashley