The long-awaited premiere of Season 29 of ABC's reality dating sensation, "The Bachelor," hits screens on January 27, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET, with former professional basketball player Grant Ellis stepping up as the new leading man. Grant, who previously endeared himself to audiences during Season 21 of "The Bachelorette," is back, hoping to find love among 25 hopeful single women ready to vie for his affections.
Those familiar with the format know well the thrill of the first few episodes—where introductions and first impressions can significantly influence who stays and who goes. Although Grant’s path on ``The Bachelorette`` ended prematurely when he arrived fifth overall, this time he's holding the reins, scripted to navigate his romantic intentions with sincerity and charm.
With personalities ranging from interior designers to luxury travel hosts, this season boasts contestants aged 25 to 32, each bringing their unique flair. Among them are Kyleigh, 26, from Wilmington, North Carolina, and Zoe, 27, who graduated from Duke University—a little local flavor for fans excited about their connections to the Tar Heel State.
And speaking of connections, here’s where it may get tricky for some viewers—especially those tuning in from Charlotte, NC. Due to scheduling conflicts with local events, the premiere will not air on the expected ABC affiliate, WSOC. Instead, local fans will catch the action on WAXN, so it’s wise for followers to double-check their cable listings or streaming options to not miss any moments from the show.
For those without cable, fear not! Live streaming options abound. Enticing trials from FuboTV and DirecTV Stream promise quick access without the need for long-term commitments. Sling TV and Hulu also feature plans suitable for those seeking to keep up with every romantic twist and turn. Notably, Hulu offers streaming options for episodes just the following day, making it easy to catch up on any missed drama. According to Business Insider, “You can also stream the show using Hulu and can get up to one month free.”
This season promises not just romance, but adventure and genuine connections, with Grant seeking someone who values loyalty, humor, and the little things in life. "Before his emotional exit, fans saw Ellis’ genuine desire to build a future centered on family," notes the official press release. Grant's foray is expected to bring fans closer to his aspirations, filled with expectations of laughter, tears, and, undoubtedly, every flavor of drama typical of the franchise.
So, fans, get your snacks ready, mark your calendars, and sort out your streaming subscriptions! Tune in to watch Grant's search for the next chapter of his life as he embarks on this exciting endeavor. It’ll be thrill after thrill, as each episode whittles down contestants until one of them receives the ultimate rose.
On premiere night, buckle up and get ready for cocktail parties, emotional revelations, and challenges as contestants work to capture Grant’s heart—who will shine bright and who will dim as the days go by? The excitement is palpable, and it isn’t just about love—it's about the connections, the heartaches, and the glimmer of hope for those involved.