Behind the Scenes of The Bachelor With Colton

We sit down with Colton Underwood to find out more about his experience as this season’s Bachelor

Q: When you’re filming The Bachelor, are you allowed, off-camera, to reach out to family and friends for advice?
A: No, but they actually provide a therapist on the show. Any time I wanted to meet with my therapist I could, which was nice. I’m a big advocate for mental health. As much as I want to work out and work on my physical appearance, I think it’s really important to exercise your brain too. I can’t say enough good things about how they provided that space for me to have that security with no microphones or cameras, so that if I do need to go and vent or talk feelings with somebody, I have that safe space.

Q: Is there a family member whom you always trust to tell you the truth?
A: Yes. The interesting thing is my mom and I are more like best friends than mother and son. My dad and I have a really good relationship too. I can lean on him for a lot of advice. The go-to member of my family to vent to though is my dog.

Q: What advice would you give to a future Bachelor or Bachelorette?
A: I would say, “Be yourself and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.” It’s alright to not handle certain situations the right way. It’s the only way you learn and grow. You don’t have to be perfect to do it, you just have to have this self-awareness and know that you’re growing. That’s the whole point of being in a relationship, to grow through life with somebody.

Q: What went through your head when you found out Heather had never been kissed before?
A: My hesitation was just making sure we were on the same page. I didn’t want her to have this unrealistic expectation of: “A first kiss means an engagement.” It was sort of like when I addressed my virginity. I wasn’t like, “I’m waiting for marriage.” It’s reserved for the [right] moment and when you’re in love with somebody, that’s what happens.

Q: Does it feel strange when fans come up to you in public?
A: Yes. I’m still new to all of this because I’ve been filming show to show to show [The Bachelorette to Bachelor in Paradise to The Bachelor], so I haven’t had a lot of experience out in the public yet. But one thing I’m quickly realizing is it’s sort of lopsided. People feel like they know a lot about me, but I don’t really know them.

Q: Have you met any celebrities who are fans of The Bachelor?
A: Yes. Scott Foley and his wife are big fans of the show. I spent some time with Bob Saget too.

Q: What was it like to be parodied on Saturday Night Live in James McAvoy’s “Virgin Hunk” sketch?
A: It’s obviously an honour to have an SNL skit made after you. I thought it was very, very funny and somewhat truthful.

Q: As you’ve said, you’re a fitness buff. What are three foods you need to have in your fridge at all times?
A: Almond butter, rice cakes and I’m a big Brussels sprouts guy.

Watch the season finale of The Bachelor on Monday, March 11th and Tuesday, March 12th on City TV and ABC