"The Bachelorette" Strip Date Controversy: Fans Cry Double Standards and Reverse Sexism
The Bachelorette s21 new episode has sparked controversy among fans, who have criticized the show for what they perceive as "reverse sexism" and an "absurd" strip date.
I’m sorryyyyyy but the goofy guy being a good sport and getting a bigger reaction than the gym bro dudes who hate him is making me soooooo pro Devin uh oh#thebachelorette #bachelorette pic.twitter.com/0ADs8yeVA2
— Bach Rants (@bach_rants) July 23, 2024
Episode Overview
Season 21's Bachelorette, Jenn Tran, organized a strip date for the male contestants, which took place in Melbourne, Australia. The men were guided by the Thunder Down Under, a well-known all-male Australian dance group.
Contestants' Reactions
The men appeared enthusiastic about the strip date, trying to impress Jenn with their moves and mimicking the Thunder Down Under’s signature performances. Jenn enjoyed the display, finding the men's efforts amusing and entertaining.
Let's get this show on the road! ???? #TheBachelorette is racing onto your screens right now on ABC. pic.twitter.com/cDCmxArlwO
— Bachelor Nation (@bachnation) July 23, 2024
Viewer Backlash
However, the audience's reaction was mixed, with many viewers expressing their disapproval on social media. Some viewers criticized the strip date as degrading and inappropriate.
Some behind the scenes snaps before tonight's episode... #TheBachelorette pic.twitter.com/rRbnVPCeJ6
— Bachelor Nation (@bachnation) July 22, 2024
Related: Jenn Tran Net Worth and Career
Criticisms and Double Standards
Perceived Double Standard: Many fans pointed out a double standard, arguing that such a date would not be acceptable if the roles were reversed, with women being asked to strip.
Objectification Concerns: Viewers highlighted concerns about the objectification of men, equating it to the objectification of women, and labeled the strip date as "egregious" and "absurd."
Related: Bachelorette Jenn Tran Secrets
Social Media Reactions
Social media was abuzz with comments:
Aaron: “There are people here for the wrong reasons”
— bachbitch (@bachbitch1) July 23, 2024
Jenn: “Who?”
Aaron: “It’s up to you to figure that out”
#TheBachelorette #bachelorette pic.twitter.com/s1us4u8pXz
Anyone else notice where Spencer almost grabbed? We needed a PSA for that before the episode. #Bachelorette #TheBachelorette pic.twitter.com/R6yjKKHo1N
— Kait Chura (@hkchura) July 23, 2024
Skepticism: Some users doubted the contestants' claims of never having stripped before.
Changing Attitudes: Others noted that their perceptions of male stripping had changed over time.
Power Dynamics: Comments were made about the reversal of power dynamics in this context.
Jenn Tran's Milestone
Despite the controversy, Jenn Tran is making history as the first Asian-American Bachelorette. Jenn previously gained popularity as a contestant on "The Bachelor," leading to her current role.
As Bachelorette Season 21 continues, Jenn Tran's tenure as the Bachelorette is already making waves, both for her groundbreaking representation and the contentious events of the latest episode.