The Bachelor’ Recap: Grant Is ‘Falling’ for Juliana and Litia, Dina’s Family Ditches Hometowns

Introduction to Hometown Dates

Hometown dates on The Bachelor are a pivotal moment, offering a glimpse into the contestants’ lives beyond the mansion. For Grant Ellis, this meant visiting four women—Juliana, Zoe, Litia, and Dina—each bringing unique challenges and emotional depth. These dates not only test compatibility but also reveal how each woman’s family and background shape her identity. Grant’s journey through these hometowns was a mix of warmth, emotional openness, and unexpected hurdles, setting the stage for difficult decisions ahead.

Juliana’s Boston Family Bash

Juliana’s hometown date in Boston was a vibrant family affair, showcasing the strong bonds within her large, welcoming family. Grant met her parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, and even the family dog, Charlie. The date was filled with joy, yet Juliana’s father initially seemed tough to win over. However, his softening stance showed a father eager to see his daughter happy. Juliana’s mom listened intently to Grant, displaying subtle judgment but ultimately warming up. The sister chat solidified Juliana’s feelings, as she declared Grant “her guy.” Their emotional connection was clear, with Grant expressing he was falling for her, earning Juliana a spot in the final three.

Zoe’s Emotional Visit in NYC

Zoe’s NYC date began with a glamorous modeling shoot, including a wedding gown, highlighting her career but feeling slightly out of place for a hometown setting. Grant then delved into deeper conversations, learning about Zoe’s adoption and estrangement from her parents. Despite not meeting her parents, Grant connected with her sister, aunt, uncle, and friends. Zoe’s journey highlighted resilience, and though Grant faced concerns about her lack of a one-on-one date, their relationship showed growth. Grant left NYC feeling optimistic about Zoe’s progress, showing trust in her journey.

Litia’s Utah Family Gathering

Litia’s hometown in Utah introduced Grant to a large, tight-knit Mormon family, marking him as her first non-Mormon suitor. Despite initial concerns, Litia’s parents were open, emphasizing that Grant didn’t need to convert. The family gathering was lively, complete with “dirty sodas.” Litia confessed her feelings, yet discussions about fantasy suites revealed her stance on intimacy. Grant and Litia exchanged heartfelt sentiments, their connection solidifying her place in the competition.

Dina’s Chicago Challenges

Dina’s Chicago hometown was fraught with challenges as her family, influenced by her disapproving father, opted out of filming. Grant instead met her friends, whose approval was clear. Despite this, Dina’s journey with Grant seemed less advanced compared to others, leaving concerns about their connection. Grant acknowledged the situation but focused on the positive time spent with her friends, yet their relationship lacked the depth seen with Juliana and Litia.

Conclusion and Rose Ceremony

The rose ceremony brought tough decisions. Grant granted roses to Litia, Juliana, and Zoe, bidding farewell to Dina. He praised her influence, recognizing the strong connection they shared, though it wasn’t as developed as with the others. Dina’s exit was gracious, hinting at future possibilities. The episode concluded with a teaser for The Women Tell All, promising more drama and resolution, leaving Bachelor Nation eager for more.