‘Bachelor’ host Jesse Palmer on bonding with Linda the no-drama llama

Each week during The Bachelor, host Jesse Palmer will answer a few questions about Grant’s “journey” to find “love.” Today, Jesse shares his thoughts via email about the night one vibes, bonding with Linda the llama, and that big First Impression Rose change.

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: One thing that really stuck out to me about the season 29 premiere was how positive the vibes were among the women. What did you think about the chill atmosphere?

JESSE PALMER: I thought night one was full of positive vibes! I always say that the Bachelor or Bachelorette set the tone throughout, and Grant was in a great headspace, as were the ladies. Also, it helps having a “no-drama llama.”

Yes, Linda the “no-drama llama” clearly lived up to her name. Grant told us that you and Linda spent a lot of time together that night — what did you talk about?

Indeed, Linda and I spent some quality time together at the mansion. I was bouncing some llama “dad jokes” off her, like, “What does a llama call the fastest car in the world? A llama-ghini!” Linda wasn’t impressed. 

Besides Alexe and Linda, what were some of the arrivals that stood out to you the most?

Litia’s sparkly basketball, J’Nae’s “game time” chalk toss, Alli Jo’s Jersey pizza, and Sarafiena’s “Grant Fat Head” all stand out! 

The First Impression Rose got a lot more valuable this season. What was your reaction to learning that the recipient would also get the first one-on-one date?

In the past, the recipient could relax a few hours early on night one before the Rose Ceremony — which is something everyone covets. This change made the First Impression Rose so much more coveted knowing they would also get the first one-on-one date.

Since this “journey” is just getting started, give us a little preview. What are five words that describe this season?

Grant is the lone wolf. 

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

The Bachelor airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

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