June 02, 2021 • bachelor insider
Katie Thurston on Embracing Her 'Intense and Crazy' Journey on 'The Bachelorette'
Katie Thurston knew she was in for the ride of her life when she said yes to being the Season 17 Bachelorette — but she never anticipated just how “intense and crazy” her experience would be.
In a new interview with People published Wednesday, the Washington native opened up about navigating her journey as the reigning franchise lead.
“It got intense and crazy. But I will say, everything happens for a reason. And I definitely embraced that,” the bank marketing manager told the outlet, adding that “a lot happened that I couldn’t have ever predicted.”
Katie also acknowledged the many makeout sessions she participated in throughout her search for love, which have been teased in multiple previews.
“Seeing the promos, I am making out with a lot of guys!” she said with a laugh. “You never really see yourself kissing anyone. So, it’s like, ‘Oh boy.’”
Katie said that it was important for her to explore physical chemistry with her contestants. “Time is short,” she noted. “And you can’t be OK with me possibly getting engaged in two months but not kissing on the first date. I’ve got to use my time wisely!”
Elsewhere, the brunette beauty — who stunned in a coral Randi Rahm gown when meeting her men on night one — explained her approach to navigating Fantasy Suite dates toward the end of her run as the Bachelorette.
“We’re all adults,” she said. “I have sex! It’s an important part of the relationship in terms of the connection. But it is also our time to talk about important topics or any lingering conversations.”
Katie — who appeared on Matt James’ Season 25 of “The Bachelor” — went on to say that she was impressed by the caliber of suitors who came out to compete for her final rose.
“Every single guy was so handsome,” she said. “And I don’t have a type, so every man that came in I was like, ‘Yes, yes, and yes!’ They’re all such great guys. And that’s what made it exciting and hard at the same time.”
“The Bachelorette” Season 17 premieres Monday, June 7, on ABC at 8 p.m. ET.
