S21 E2: Conflicts and Conquering Fears

The second episode of Season 21 of The Bachelorette took place in Melbourne, Australia! This episode featured many of the Bachelorette staples, including skydiving, a marketplace date, trying foreign delicacies, a comedic roasting session, and a classic photo shoot with a wild animal twist. It may sound like all fun and games, but the episode and the trip seem to have been hijacked by drama. One front-runner, Devin, ruffled the feathers of many of the other men while simultaneously winning the admiration of Jenn, leaving him in an excellent position with the lead but with a target on his back. The other men are not pleased with his abrasiveness and antics. Will this lead to ferocious love or heartbreak? Only time will tell. Keep reading for my analysis of three standout moments from the episode.

Aaron and Devin

In the beginning of this clip, Devin and Aaron discuss why Aaron feels that Devin is not serious about the process or about Jenn. He “accidentally” calls him Dylan and says he doesn’t think he’s the right person for Jenn. Devin retorts that if Aaron doesn’t even know his name, how could he possibly judge if he’s right for Jenn, accusing Aaron of not looking past his abrasive personality. Devin counters by claiming that Aaron hasn’t taken charge.

When Aaron finally sits down with Jenn, they banter while Devin continues talking about the confrontation with another contestant. With obvious assistance from producers, Devin interrupts Aaron and Jenn, offering ice cream as a callback to their alone time on the date. The ice cream is an interesting strategy since it melts easily, adding urgency to the situation. Devin gains more time with Jenn, during which she affirms her appreciation for his assertiveness and personality. Encouraged by Jeremy, Aaron returns to steal more time with Jenn, and although Devin initially resists, he eventually retreats.

After the men get an update on the situation, Devin returns once more to interrupt Aaron and Jenn. Jenn questions if Devin is having issues with the other men, but their conversation ends with a kiss, once again putting Devin in a favorable position with Jenn. In the final scene, Aaron pulls Devin aside again, calling him arrogant. Devin apologizes for how he handled the conversation but expresses displeasure at Aaron questioning his character. Aaron again calls Devin the wrong name and gives him a book on emotional intelligence, mirroring a scenario involving Devin’s twin brother, Noah, from a previous season of the show, revealing production’s role in fueling the conflict between them.

Throughout both confrontations, Aaron’s condescending tone and body language clash with Devin’s unapologetic personality, leaving them at odds. While they both speak, it’s evident they aren’t listening to each other, interrupting frequently, yet maintaining civility out of respect for Jenn. Despite genuine differences contributing to their conflict, the heavy-handed involvement of production makes the dispute feel staged and unresolved for the future.

Jenn and Marcus

On her first one-on-one date as the new Bachelorette, Jenn embarks on a thrilling adventure with Marcus: skydiving. As a former army ranger, Marcus is completely at ease in this high-adrenaline environment, whereas Jenn is nervous and scared due to her fear of heights. Throughout the experience, Marcus reassures her, his calm demeanor helping to alleviate her anxiety.

The music plays a crucial role in setting the scene, intensifying the viewer's anticipation as they prepare to jump. Marcus poetically likens skydiving to the leap of faith involved in falling in love. When Jenn takes the plunge from the plane, the music shifts to a triumphant and sweeping melody, amplifying her sense of achievement in conquering one of her biggest fears. Upon landing, they embrace and share a kiss, the adrenaline from the experience propelling their relationship forward.

After a day where Marcus supported Jenn, it becomes evident that she is now poised to reciprocate by helping him connect with his emotions as their journey continues. Their personalities seem to complement each other, hinting at potential compatibility for the future.

Thomas and Devin 

In the above clip, Devin pulls Jenn first during the cocktail party, despite several men from the previous group date not having received a night portion of their date. The men had a conversation the night before, agreeing that out of respect, those who hadn't spent time with Jenn should have the opportunity to speak with her first. To compound matters, Devin had already pulled Jenn and had one-on-one time with her during his group date, which infuriated all the other men. The only two men who don’t seem flustered are those who have already received roses this week and are safe from elimination. Jeremy also stands out, expressing his admiration for Devin "being himself" despite not yet having a rose.

In response to Devin's early pull, the men decide to send Thomas to interrupt Jenn and Devin. Thomas immediately focuses on confronting Devin, leaving Jenn sitting alone. While the men's frustration is understandable, Thomas makes a misstep by concentrating on Devin instead of focusing on building his own connection with Jenn. When Thomas eventually speaks with Jenn, their conversation revolves solely around Devin, leading Jenn to feel that her agency in choosing who to spend time with at the cocktail party is being undermined by the men.

The primary issue here is control over time. While both Jenn and the men believe they have a say in who spends time with the Bachelorette, the reality is that production ultimately decides to shape the narrative and plot lines. Thomas's intentions were noble in seeking fairness within a potentially biased process, but his approach inadvertently casts Devin in a favorable light while making himself vulnerable.

Despite Devin's controversial actions towards the other men, he prioritizes Jenn and their relationship, which strategically advances his position ahead of the others tonight and in the overall journey. Time management proves crucial, and Devin's calculated moves serve to strengthen his bond with Jenn amidst the competition.

Coming Up 

Next week’s preview promises kisses, fireworks, a helicopter date, a “love down under” showcase, conflict between the men, and Jenn decisively sending someone packing. See you then!

Ashley

For more of my thoughts, check out this episode of the wonderful podcast, Here to Find Love, with Julie and Kelly, a show where two Asian American dating coaches (and best friends!) dig deep into the relationship psychology of reality TV shows, especially The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. Give them a follow on Instagram and subscribe to their YouTube channel for insightful analysis of The Bachelor franchise!