Clare Crawley Low-Key Ruined Tonight’s Episode of ‘The Bachelorette’ & Here’s Why

For the first time in months, I was actually excited to watch tonight’s episode of The Bachelorette. Not only did it represent the beginning of Tayshia Adams’s journey to find love, but it also marked the first episode sans Clare Crawley…or so I thought.

On season 16, episode five of The Bachelorette, the 39-year-old bride-to-be returned alongside her fiancé, Dale Moss, for a sit-down chat with Chris Harrison that seemingly came out of nowhere. During the conversation, Crawley answered burning Bachelor Nation questions, including why she was so infatuated with Moss on the show.

It isn’t that I have anything against Crawley, but I’m confused as to why ABC chose to bring her back after last week’s dumpster fire engagement. Crawley’s story is old news. She already had her 15 minutes of fame. Now, it’s Adams’s turn. So, why are we revisiting Crawley’s journey when we are so so ready to move on?

I understand that viewers need closure about her relationship with Moss, but that’s what the After the Final Rose special is for. There’s no need to interrupt Adams’s already shortened season to spend time doting over how “perfect” they are or to let Moss dodge baby questions like a total pro.

I expected more from ABC, especially since viewers have been vocal about their negative feelings toward Crawley’s journey (and rumored early exit) from the start. After teasing Adams’s arrival for the past three episodes, you’d think they’d give her enough respect to dedicate one entire episode to her.

Fingers crossed Crawley stays in her lane from here on out. The Bachelorette returns to ABC next Tuesday, November 17, at 8 p.m.