Legendary Challenge competitor Johnny “Bananas” Devenanzio is newly single, and with The Bachelor franchise struggling to remain compelling, Johnny is at just the right stage in his life to make a perfect lead. Though Johnny has always been a part of the MTV family, he could be just what Bachelor Nation needs to reinvigorate the stale franchise. There are several reasons why a Bananas Bachelor season would be a win for fans and Johnny as well.
Johnny is one of the most successful players to compete on The Challenge, and it’s due to a mixture of physical prowess, superior strategy, and years of experience. Over the years, Johnny racked up over a million dollars in prize money, and eventually decided to seek other opportunities. Johnny landed a new talk show, Celebrity Sleepover, and launched a successful line of branded merchandise. Over in Bachelor-land, there will reportedly be two seasons next year with two male leads. The first will be a Bachelor Nation alum, but the other has yet to be named.
That second spot for a Bachelor lead is perfect for Johnny, and it could lead to the most dramatic season ever—for real this time. Johnny would be an undeniably charismatic Bachelor and would result in an extremely entertaining season. The Challenge alum is no stranger to conniving and strategy and could spot there-for-the-wrong-reasons-contestants from a mile away. The women could take part in Challenge-style competitions that, in addition to being thrilling to watch, would test their inner (and outer) strength. The former champ could be a great addition to Bachelor Nation, and because Johnny and ex-girlfriend Morgan Willett ended their relationship recently, he’s most likely single and ready to mingle.
After taking a step back from competing on The Challenge, Johnny has pursued other professional opportunities, and starring as the lead of The Bachelor would be huge for his career. Appearing on The Bachelor can open up many other doors, including other reality shows like Dancing With the Stars, and hosting opportunities as well. But there are more than just professional benefits in store for Johnny if he were to be the next Bachelor lead. Stepping outside his comfort zone and going on The Bachelor could help him look inward. Johnny reportedly cheated on Morgan, which ended their relationship, so it’s fair to say he has some issues to work on.
Johnny would definitely be a great asset for The Bachelor franchise, but the long-running dating show could benefit the former Challenge champ as well. It’s a win-win scenario, and though it’s an extremely long shot that Johnny would ever become the Bachelor, many fans of the two franchises would love nothing more than to see Bananas pass out roses.
