It’s unlikely Caelynn’s the first contestant on this show to be a victim of rape. But she is the first to bravely speak out about it. This is not something to minimize or take for granted. I am truly amazed at this young woman’s strength. And at—excuse my French—TWENTY FUCKING THREE YEARS OLD. Brava, girl.

Finally, since writing my Flare recap, a number of you informed me that Colton dated gymnastics Olympian Aly Raisman, who we all know was one of many victims in the biggest sex abuse story in American sports history. So, to be completely honest, I didn’t know they dated because I apparently live under a rock when it comes to non-aired Bachelor trivia. (What can I say? I have too much Bachelor in my life for several months a year; can’t blame me for not digging up even more in my spare time. For real, you guys are my main source of information now!) The gist of this tip seemed to be that Colton having dated a sexual assault victim wasn’t new news. I get that, but I also think it was pretty huge for him to suggest (and by suggest, I really mean admit) that her trauma from that experience was the reason he’s still a virgin. It was how his experience fit like a sort of other-side puzzle piece with Caelynn’s, and how the mystery of his virginity came to this resolution… it all had me entranced. Like, if I were more of a cynic, I’d think it was too perfect, that Caelynn was planted on the season for this ultimate reveal. (I in no way think that, by the way.) It was just powerful, important, and yes, excellent reality television.





ROSE CEREMONY

Ok, back to those Instagram stars-to-be. It’s the Rose Ceremony and Courtney’s on the verge of exploding. I had a legit LOL when Courtney came to interrupt Demi’s time with Colton. You see Demi clock who it is and then erupt into laughter. I love this kind of reaction because it really pokes fun at the absurdity of it all. Demi knows—and more importantly, she knows that the producers know—she’s just talked shit about Courtney. So, OF COURSE out of 15 women there, Courtney happens to be the one to interrupt Demi. It’s all so intricately and mechanically contrived for maximum awkwardness. Most of the time contestants just pretend like everything’s normal and they quietly leave. It’s rare you get someone who just literally laughs at the situation while STILL IN IT…