‘The Bachelorette’ Will Feature 2 Leads—But Will the New Format Save the Franchise?

Rachel Recchia and Gabby Windey’s season of The Bachelorette is right around the corner. The upcoming episodes are sure to bring the drama because the double lead format has never been done before. Well, excluding season 11 when the contestants were forced to choose between Kaitlyn Bristowe (who became the Bachelorette) and Britt Nilsson (who was sent home).

This time, both leads are sticking around for the entire season. But before you judge the potentially predictable drama, you should know that the switch-up might be a good thing for The Bachelorette. In fact, it could save the franchise from its years-long decline.

Here are four reasons why having two Bachelorette leads is a much-needed change.

1. It’s more realistic. There’s no real-world situation where 30 men would fight over one girl. It just doesn’t happen. The new format is reminiscent of Bachelor in Paradise, which has its flaws but mimics a more realistic dating scenario.

2. It doesn’t seem forced. In past seasons, it doesn’t matter if the contestants are attracted to the lead. They’re either forced to adapt, or they run the risk of going home. With two Bachelorettes, the contestants can decide who they want to pursue. ABC hasn’t released information on how the men will be split, but this is one of the few instances where more options is totally appropriate.

3. It increases the chance of finding love. That’s the whole purpose of the show, and it’s often ignored for the sake of dramatic television. The Bachelorette producers aren’t matchmakers, so the chances of them casting “the one” are slim (but not impossible). By incorporating two leads, it will enable the contestants to date the women to determine whether they’re compatible, versus treating it like a competition to be the last man standing.

4. It’s different. It’s no secret that the franchise is lacking the entertainment value that used to guilt trip viewers into watching every season. Perhaps the solo lead format doesn’t work anymore because it’s too traditional compared to modern online dating. Or maybe the setting is too over-the-top to elicit real feelings. Either way, The Bachelorette season 19 is introducing a brand-new format that’s never been done before. And for that reason, there’s hope for the future of the franchise.

Rachel Recchia and Gabby Windey’s season of The Bachelorette premieres on Monday, July 11, on ABC.

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