Bachelor in Paradise Contestants Concerned That $500K Prize Diminishes Relationship Value
A significant pile of cash in Costa Rica may not have had the intended impact that Bachelor in Paradise producers were envisioning.
“Many contestants felt it was like, ‘It cheapens our relationships,’” participant Jonathon Johnson shared with Us Weekly in an exclusive interview regarding the twist.
Despite the concerns from his co-stars, Jonathon, 28, held a different view.
“That’s not the purpose of competing for $500,000. You’re committed to your partner. Now, you have ample time to get to know one another — you can develop real feelings and still win money,” he explained. “I was quite firm in saying, ‘Hey, whether you’re with someone or not, there is still $500,000 at stake. Seize the opportunity because anyone back home would do the same.’ No one will judge you for compromising your relationship or thinking you’re in it solely for [money].”
Jonathon mentioned that the show introduced the money twist “halfway through” season 10 of BiP, indicating that the intentions of the contestants should not be scrutinized by the audience. (For the first time, the show also incorporates a series of “chemistry tests,” with details on how the cast may win the money still to be determined.)
“It’s time to enjoy ourselves and see what we can achieve here,” Jonathon explained. “People were hesitant to discuss the money a bit, but with everything happening, I thought, ‘No, there’s a lot at stake. Embrace it, get to know your partner, build that connection, and most importantly, have fun. It’s still Paradise!’”
The episode airing on Monday, July 28, introduces Lea Cayanan — who could be a suitable match for Jonathon.
“We had a friendship prior, and our relationship is as entertaining as it is intense,” he told Us. “I think she should have been brought into Paradise way sooner because she brings such a lively dynamic to the whole experience.”
Golden Bachelor alums Nancy Hulkower and Faith Martin also make their way to Paradise in Monday’s episode.
“They truly present new competition for all of us,” April Kirkwood expressed to Us. “It felt like, you know, the lights came back on. When it’s 2 a.m. in the bars [and] everyone is enjoying themselves, and then the lights come on, and they announce, ‘Last call, last call!’ And they look at me saying, ‘You made it worse.’”
April, 67, upset some of her fellow Golden women by choosing Jonathon to receive a rose instead of one of the Golden Bachelorette men in the July 21 episode.
“They introduce a unique flavor,” she continued about Nancy, 62, and Faith, 62. “They each possess diverse personalities, and I believe viewers will be enlightened and surprised by some of the fresh experiences they bring.”
Bachelor in Paradise airs on ABC Mondays at 8 p.m. ET, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu.
