May 26, 2021 • bachelor insider
Katie Thurston Applauds Her 'Incredible' Men in Heartfelt Note Before 'The Bachelorette' Premiere
An outstanding group of guys! Katie Thurston took to Instagram on Wednesday to share a heartfelt noted dedicated to the men who are competing for her final rose on “The Bachelorette” Season 17.
“As I reminisce about my journey to find love, I can’t help but get in my feels. You all are about to meet an incredible group of men with fascinating stories to tell,” the Washington native wrote alongside a stunning promo shot.
“The vulnerability and strength these men show throughout our time together is something I’ll cherish forever,” she continued. “They each hold a special place in my heart.”
Elsewhere, Katie — known for her loyal nature and fierce defense of those she cares about — urged Bachelor Nation to be empathetic as they witness her relationships play out on national TV.
“That all being said, I am protective of them. I remember being on their side of this journey,” said Katie, who appeared on Matt James’ landmark 25th season of “The Bachelor” earlier this year. “Being in the public eye for the first time. Reading what people thought. Please remember to stay kind in this.”
She concluded, “You’ll only get to see a glimpse of how extraordinary they really are. I can’t wait for you to meet them!”
Katie’s touching message came hours before a new preview for her season of “The Bachelorette” dropped, highlighting the ups and downs that took place throughout her run as the franchise’s reigning lead. The clip teases charming limo entrances, steamy makeout sessions, and, of course, major drama.
Check out Katie’s entire post below — and see how her story unfolds when “The Bachelorette” Season 17 premieres Monday, June 7, on ABC at 8 p.m. ET.
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