10 Best Moments from Tonight’s Hometown Dates Episode of ‘The Bachelorette’
*Warning: Spoilers ahead*
On the second night of The Bachelorette’s two-part special, Tayshia Adams embarked on the hometown dates with her final four contestants: Ben, Brendan, Ivan and Zac. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the outings didn’t really count as “hometown dates.” Instead, the producers flew in select family members, who underwent a quarantine at the resort until they could produce a negative COVID-19 test.
Which families welcomed Adams with open arms? And which family joined their loved one on the plane ride home? Keep reading for the ten best moments from season 16, episode 11 of The Bachelorette.
1. When Brendan broke down in tears
When host Chris Harrison announced which family members Adams would be meeting, Brendan couldn’t help but break down in tears at the mention of his older brother, Daniel, who’s a father figure to him. “It’s just such an honor he’s here,” he said.
2. And then performed a handshake with his niece
During their one-on-one date, Brendan brought Adams to a “small-town carnival,” which featured classic games. When his niece joined in on the fun, the duo demonstrated their go-to handshake before teaching Adams one of their own.
3. When Brendan's brother confirmed he's ready for marriage
Adams sat down for a candid conversation with Daniel, who revealed that Brendan is ready to settle down (again). Your move, Neil Lane.
4. When Zac brought New York to California
No, really. In an attempt to show her around his hometown, Zac and Adams did things that classic New Yorkers do. This included riding in a (cardboard) taxi, eating bagels, sitting in Central Park and playing in a fountain.
5. And his brother called out Tayshia Adams
When Adams met Zac’s family, his brother pulled her aside and asked how serious their relationship is in comparison to the other contestants. After Adams responded, his brother immediately said, “You didn’t answer the question,” and then proceeded to grill her. #Yikes
6. When Ivan introduced a family tradition
During his one-on-one date, Ivan enlisted “one of the greatest chefs in the world” (AKA his niece) to help make a recipe via Zoom.
7. And then received the surprise of a lifetime
Although Ivan was originally disappointed his brother couldn’t make it, that all changed later that night when he showed up unannounced. “It was such a range of emotions,” Ivan said. “It just meant the world to me.”
8. When Ben showed off his rollerblading skills
For this date, Ben brought the Venice Beach boardwalk to Adams. After strapping on roller blades, the pair visited makeshift shops and vendors, where they tried on hats and messed around. (You know, typical Bachelorette stuff.)
9. And then failed to drop the L-bomb
Later that night, Ben told his sister that he’s in love with Adams. However, when it came time to tell her, he completely froze up. “In true Ben fashion, I just blew it,” he said. “I’m in love with her, and I should have just told her.”
10. When Tayshia Adams picked the final three
During the rose ceremony, Adams handed out roses to everyone but—drumroll, please—Ben.
The Bachelorette finale airs on ABC next Monday (December 21) and Tuesday (December 22) at 8 p.m.
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