Our Most Dramatic List Yet: Ranking the Best of The Bachelor’s Leading Men
5. Jesse Palmer
You may know him from ESPN and Good Morning America, but Jesse Palmer first broke into the TV biz as the 5th-ever star of The Bachelor! As a former NFL quarterback, Palmer was not only the first professional athlete to take on the role, but the first non-American (he was born in Canada).
Though his relationship with winner Jessica lasted just a few months after their season ended, Jesse was — and still is — a welcome presence on our TV screens.
And who could forget the moment when he accidentally said the wrong name during a rose ceremony? This incredibly entertaining mishap alone earned him a spot on our list!
4. Andrew Firestone
Third time’s the charm — as proven by The Bachelor when fan-favorite Andrew Firestone took on the leading role of the series’ third season.
As the heir to his family’s fortune and manager of their California vineyard, Andrew had the all makings of an excellent bach on paper. Throughout his time on The Bachelor, his charming personality and dreamy good looks made him the ultimate catch in the eyes of his suitors and Bachelor Nation alike.
Now, nearly fourteen years later, he’s still remembered as one of the show’s very best.
3. Chris Soules
Chris first caught the attention of Bachelor Nation when he revealed himself as bachelorette Andi Dorfman’s “secret admirer” — who had been writing anonymous love letters throughout her season.
He brought the same romantic streak to his season of The Bachelor, on which 30 beautiful women competed for his heart.
And when we say “competed,” we mean it. Though Soules himself was not the most charismatic leading man, his cast of ladies provided more than enough personality. With countless tears, schemes, and professions of love, there’s no denying Season 19 was a blast.
2. Sean Lowe
Sean and his wife, Catherine, may be one of today’s best The Bachelor couples, but before their love story could truly begin, Sean met and dated 25 other lovely ladies on the show’s 17th season.
Arguably the most gentlemanly bachelor to date, Sean proved himself to be as kind and courteous to each of his suitors as he was to Emily Maynard when he appeared on The Bachelorette. It was this winning personality that led the adorable Catherine — and the rest of America — to fall in love with him.
1. Ben Higgins
Bachelor Ben certainly made an excellent first impression, emerging as an early fan-favorite on Kaitlyn’s season of The Bachelorette. By the time he was announced as the 20th star of The Bachelor, few fans were surprised — but all were excited!
Luckily, Ben’s very own season did not disappoint. He not only proved himself to be a true gentleman, but his cast of gorgeous ladies included some of the show’s most lovable characters yet. With Jojo, Lauren B., Becca, and more, the women of Season 20 were as charming as the #1 bachelor himself!
But where will Nick Viall rank among his predecessors? There’s only one way to find out! Catch The Bachelor Season 21 Mondays at 8/7c on ABC.
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Marisa DiPaolo
Marisa is a New York-based entertainment industry professional and fervent follower of all things pop culture. She spends her free time reading EW, revisiting Gilmore Girls and Harry Potter, and writing about television for fun. You can find her on twitter: @Marisa_DiPaolo