Golden Bachelorette: The Hometown Episode Breakdown

We’ve reached the hometown visits—an episode that's often the slowest in The Bachelor universe. This week felt particularly bland, lacking the drama or excitement that other seasons have brought. Remember the unforgettable Dean’s dad moment from Rachel’s season? Nothing here comes close to that. However, Chock’s dad deserves a mention—he’s a dead ringer for Jimmy Stewart voicing the old sheriff in Fievel Goes West.

Honestly, they should ditch hometowns altogether. Fly the lead out secretly to meet the families and spare us the awkward, drawn-out interactions. Instead, let’s focus on the fun stuff. Imagine if Gary and Charles returned for some shopping or, better yet, if they asked more meaningful questions. But that’s a long shot, as The Bachelor loves to keep things safe, avoiding anything too interesting or divisive. This episode, like many others, is ultimately a non-event, leaving us where we were last week, minus Jordan. It was clear from the start that Jordan didn’t have a strong connection with Joan.

In comparison, I was far more invested in Gerry’s season, which pains me to admit since Gerry’s become suspicious recently. The ratings reflect the obvious: The Bachelor consistently outperforms The Bachelorette. Why? Women tend to be more emotionally expressive, making for better TV. Meanwhile, the men smile and hope that suffices. Joan's frustration with the emotionally closed-off men is palpable by the end of this episode. Despite being forthcoming, Chock still gives off a bit of a Biff Tannen vibe from Back to the Future ("Hey, you, get your damn hands off her!").

Breaking Down the Hometowns:

First Stop: Lake Tahoe, Nevada (Guy)
The most picturesque location of the bunch and the most relaxed we’ve seen Guy all season. He shares a story about Lake Tahoe granting wishes if you throw rocks into the water—a story with zero factual basis. Apparently, you can just make up legends about any place now? They visit his family in Reno, where Joan meets Gary, Greg, Gwen, Gail, Greer, and Glenn (yes, all alliterative). Guy’s family is supportive, and he seems ready to propose, but there’s a lingering awkwardness between him and Joan.

Next: Chicago (Pascal)
Joan lights up in Chicago. She meets Pascal at his salon in Glencoe, where they bond over salon activities. Later, Pascal’s grandson hilariously asks if Pascal sleeps with other grandpas—cue the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory references. Joan instantly connects with Pascal’s family, and things seem to be progressing well.

Chicago, Take Two: Jordan
Jordan’s hometown date starts off rocky—he takes Joan to Lou Malnati’s for deep dish, which isn’t exactly a local favorite for Chicagoans. Joan isn’t sold on it, but Jordan redeems himself by making her try a shot of Malort, a quintessential Chicago experience. Despite the fun moments, Jordan confesses he’s not ready to propose, signaling his exit. Joan’s disappointed but shares a lingering kiss with him before sending him home.

Final Stop: Wichita, Kansas (Chock)
Chock remains Joan’s strongest connection, but his frontrunner status feels almost too obvious. They meet at a friend’s ranch, conveniently skipping a visit to Chock’s own home, raising some eyebrows. The emotional highlight comes when they plant an oak tree in honor of Chock’s late mother, Dr. Jill Cobb. Yet, instead of diving deeper into her inspiring story, we return to the usual hometown routines. Chock opens up emotionally, solidifying his lead in the competition.

The Rose Ceremony:

Joan arrives at the rose ceremony, less confident than before. Dressed like a “sexy fire hydrant,” she tells Jesse that two men are still emotionally closed off. She hands roses to Chock, Guy, and Pascal, sending Jordan home. As we head to Tahiti for the final leg, a dramatic finish is all but guaranteed!