In a preview video for the next episode of The Bachelor, Clayton Echard is revealed to be questioning the intentions of contestant Sarah Hamrick after private sources put her into question. With more negativity than usual, Clayton’s season appears to be tragic, with constant criticism and problematic moments. In an attempt to begin a new chapter of his life with the woman of his dreams, Clayton has been met with disappointment and failed connections, recently claiming that he feels broken by the process featured on The Bachelor.
Seemingly well-intentioned and sincere during his time as the series lead, Clayton has had to deal with more than most bachelors, having a number of brutal obstacles making finding a wife at the end of the series nearly impossible. Throughout The Bachelor season 26, Clayton has expressed a number of hardships while leading the series, including a massive toll on his mental health, both on and off the air. Facing bullying from Cassidy Timbrooks and struggling self-confidence, Clayton’s journey is memorably catastrophic according to fans, both for him and the Bachelor franchise.
As revealed in a preview video for the next episode of The Bachelor, courtesy of Us Weekly, Clayton begins to question Sarah’s intentions on the series, wondering if she is “ready to settle down.” He becomes increasingly serious about his next steps as the bachelor, making difficult decisions in an attempt to eliminate any women who are doubting their seriousness about marriage at the end of the show. Clearly shocked by Clayton’s suspicions, Sarah emotionally expresses that she “[joined the series] because it was Clayton” leading the season and noted that she has “been nothing but completely [herself] and completely vulnerable.” With mixed emotions between the couple, there appears to be plenty of tension and little resolve when it comes to Sarah’s commitment to Clayton.
A groundbreaking Bachelor lead and overall genuine cast member, Clayton proves to be serious about love and marriage, unwilling to settle for flimsy promises from the women of his season. While others have claimed to prioritize intention when handing out roses, Clayton has put his words into action, seriously investigating the women of The Bachelor season 26. Even after Sarah tried to reassure Clayton of her feelings, he still appears to be discerning her authenticity, explaining he is still “afraid of losing everything” on the series. Clayton may not be a fan-favorite on The Bachelor, but fans will certainly respect his character and his dedication to not only himself but to love as well, taking his time and engagement with the utmost seriousness. Despite Clayton’s criticism of Sarah, many have come out against Clayton’s maturity as well. Fans have claimed Clayton himself shouldn’t be engaged at this point in time, complicating the situation as the series continues.
Certain to be an emotional installment for The Bachelor season 26, Clayton has plenty to make sense of as his season comes to a close. Without certainty as to who will eventually win over Clayton, fans are left with anticipation in regard to Clayton and Sarah’s relationship, one already on shaky ground. Airing on February 14, just in time for Valentine’s Day, Clayton will face his increasing fears about Sarah and make monumental decisions about his final moments on The Bachelor.
The Bachelor airs Mondays at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.
