The Bachelorette Season 21 finale: Best and worst moments

1. Best moment: James and Jenn

One of the best parts of any finale of The Bachelorette is getting to know the lead, Jenn, on a deeper level. This happens many ways, sometimes just by watching them prepare for the final choice, during which they usually crack under the pressure. The best part, however, is watching the lead with their family! It’s just such a different side to them. It brings out a more vulnerable, sometimes childish, more “real” side to them every time. 

Jenn’s family was lovely. They weren’t afraid to ask the tough questions but weren’t too skeptical or abrasive. In this case, the best part of the “meet the family” dates was Jenn’s brother, James!

James won me over very quickly. He comes across as observant and honest and isn’t afraid to just “go there” in a conversation. While asking Jenn about her connection with Marcus, he immediately compared their struggles to her pattern with emotionally unavailable men. I didn’t understand that he was judging the situation, but rather, he was inviting her to consider the possibility. 

The sweetest moment came when Jenn talked about how James is the only person who understands her and clarified how much she trusts his opinion. James teared up and had to walk away, and it was such a lovely moment that might not have happened the same way without the show. It’s times like these where The Bachelorette transcends its somewhat frivolous reputation.

2. Worst moment: Poor Marcus

In lieu of their final date, Marcus and Jenn have a frank conversation, and Marcus finally tells Jenn he loves her. Unfortunately, it is too little, too late, and Marcus is left crying on the couch.

Poor Marcus. He has been trying SO hard, under the EXTREME pressure of this show, to open up and tell Jenn he loves her. 

Let’s be clear: it is NOT abnormal to have difficulty saying “I love you” in just a few weeks, especially while the person is dating other men, and most of your moments with them have been on camera, with several people standing nearby, watching your every move. 

Marcus is just such a class act. He took so much responsibility for his feelings (or lack thereof), never blaming the show or the process or anything like that. He had nothing but positive things to say about Jenn, including After the Final Rose. He’s an incredible person who has been to hell and back in his life but never seems hardened or calloused because of it. 

I hope all this had a net positive effect on Marcus. This franchise might not be for him, but whoever ends up with him is lucky!