The Bachelor: Is Clayton Echard Just Too Nice To Be A Fun Leading Man?
The Bachelor season 26 episode 1 aired recently and some viewers can’t help but agree with eliminated cast member Claire Heilig that leading man Clayton Echard is just too nice. The Bachelor is a popular dating show that gives a single man a selection of outgoing and beautiful women vying for his love. Over the course of the 20 years that the show has been on the air, it has stemmed over seven spin-offs that include The Bachelorette.
With 30 women fighting for one man's heart and affection, things can get tense and drama typically follows suit. However, stress levels rose more quickly than in past seasons, as two women went home before the rose ceremony even took place. One of the eliminated contestants was Claire Heilig who, according to her bio with ABC, is a “charming, outgoing and unapologetic woman with a big personality.” Her big personality shined brightly as she made her feelings for Clayton clear after he left their interaction to go talk to someone else. Ultimately, Claire deemed that Clayton is “100% too nice.” Even though Claire may have had a stronger reaction than the situation called for, some viewers agreed with her, as they can already see signs of how Clayton will do as a lead on the show.
Aside from Clayton’s reluctance to provide his undivided attention to Claire, fans had already seen the drama that started earlier in the day at The Bachelor season 26 premiere. Before the rose ceremony, Salley Carson arrived early at the mansion to have a long discussion with Clayton. Salley revealed a bit of information about how she planned to get married that same weekend. At the time, she thought she was ready to find love, but she realized that she wanted to leave the show. "I thought I was ready to do something like this, and I don't know if my heart is ready."
Clayton, being a nice guy with a romantic heart, offered Salley a rose and asked her to stay. In turn, Salley struggled with her decision for a few moments and then ultimately decided to decline the rose. Unfortunately, those aren’t the only concerns. Even the way he handled the situation with Claire seemed all very polite. Although having a nice guy is what most women strive for, many viewers are starting to think that Clayton is just too boring. Especially since his recent appearance on The Bachelorette didn’t wow viewers despite their high hopes.
In the end, there are at least nine more episodes to look forward to. While tensions are already high, as the women dwindle down, emotions become more invested. It’ll be interesting to see if Clayton’s attitude adjusts. Hopefully, viewers will have more answers about this year's The Bachelor next Monday.