'The Bachelorette' criticized for not being diverse enough as Daisy Kent bizarrely dragged into controversy
SANTA SUSANA, CALIFORNIA: In the 2024 TV lineup, 'The Bachelorette' returned to ABC for Season 21, featuring Jenn Tran as the lead in search of love. Notably, Jenn Tran marks a historic moment as the first Asian American lead in Bachelor Nation—a franchise historically criticized for its lack of diversity.
However, fans were disappointed with the Season 21 debut, expressing widespread dissatisfaction over the continued lack of Asian representation, particularly regarding Asian males during Jenn Tran's spotlight.
Daisy Kent quitting 'The Bachelorette' may have resulted in a less-varied cast for Jenn Tran
During the casting process for 'The Bachelorette', ABC executives reportedly also considered Daisy Kent. However, they ultimately chose to cast Jenn for the current season. Daisy eventually left the show, revealing recently that she believed being the Bachelorette lead wouldn't be conducive to her well-being.
“There’s a few reasons,” the Bachelor runner-up clarified on 'The Viall Files'. “So, one, my health is like an aspect of it. And like, I knew as the lead, it’s a lot on you. Not only emotionally but also physically too.”
On Reddit, one fan wrote, "These guys were so cast for Daisy before the producers switched her for Jenn 😭 It’s the vibe / style." Another fan added, "Oh man that's for sure a man after Dai."
One fan said, "They were probably for Daisy because I don't think Maria dates that type of white. Her ex was half-Chinese, full body tatted and their Toronto crew of homies was very diverse, fashionable, and city boy."
Another fan added, "Do we think this group was chosen for potentially Daisy or Maria or whoever else? Or do they just choose contestants regardless before nailing down the next seasons lead? I’m genuinely curious!! Because I know they pitch for you to put in submissions all season long before hand? I need all the tea of the choosing process lol."
Jenn Tran upset over lack of diversity in 'The Bachelorette' Season 21 cast
Days before her Monday, July 8 debut, Jenn discussed the dearth of Asian presence in an interview with Glamour, saying, "I can’t really speak to the casting process and the decisions that were made, but it is unfortunate that there weren’t a lot of Asian men this season."
She added, "Asian men haven’t always seen themselves in this position, and I am hoping that me being here and Thomas N. being there, that the both of us can inspire other Asian men to realize that they can do this too if they want. They can be in this position as well. I’m hoping that it inspires them."
Thomas Nguyen proudly showcases his Vietnamese heritage in 'The Bachelorette' Season 21
According to his ABC profile, Thomas Nguyen, one of the men competing to propose to Jenn on 'The Bachelor', hails from a large Vietnamese family and takes pride in his heritage and cultural roots. As a retirement advisor, he finds fulfillment in community service and is eager to find a loving wife to build a future family with.
'The Bachelorette' Season 21 airs on Mondays at 8 pm ET/PT on ABC. Hulu's next-day streaming is available on Tuesdays.