"Continuing the tradition of this season of The Golden Bachelor, Mel continues to give us absolutely nothing while the women around him do feats of incredible strength and charisma and boob tape to make this show even remotely watchable. I've been hard on Mel in the past (and I've been delighted at his Black old man distrust of stingrays), but man, oh man, this is a TOUGH episode for the Mel fans out there. Are there even Mel fans? Melniacs, make some noise."
"I absolutely hate being proven right so many times, but this season could have been saved if Mel had been very upfront at the beginning that he didn't want to get engaged. It would have been more honest and potentially a little more dramatic. Women eliminating themselves once they realize Mel is looking for a long-term boo thang, not a wife. Open and frank discussions about what a long-term partnership after 60 looks like."
Mel remains emotionally withdrawn while other contestants supply energy, spectacle, and charisma to sustain viewer interest. Production continues to insist on an engagement-driven finale despite signs that Mel is not seeking marriage. An upfront declaration that engagement is off would allow clearer expectations and more honest interactions. Allowing women to self-select after realistic conversations about long-term partnership over 60 would create more meaningful exits. Reframing the finale to celebrate companionship, involve families, and symbolize commitment differently (rather than staging a surprise proposal) would better reflect older adults’ relationship priorities and reduce theatrical pressure.
Read at Vulture
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