June 29, 2021 • bachelor insider
The Competition for Katie Thurston's Heart Heats Up on 'The Bachelorette'
Katie Thurston’s search for love — and a whole lot of drama! — continued on the Monday, July 5, episode of “The Bachelorette.”
The latest installment of Season 17 saw the progression of Katie’s relationships with a number of contestants.
“Katie’s exactly what I’ve been looking for,” Andrew S. told the camera amid a moving one-on-one date with Katie, during which the pair discussed their childhood experiences, marriage, and the potential of raising a multiracial family, among other important topics.
Elsewhere, Katie and First Impression Rose recipient Greg reassured each other of their mutual feelings. “I’m so into you,” Katie told Greg, who immediately responded with the same sentiment. “I’m so into you,” he shared with the reigning franchise lead.
Elsewhere, the return of Blake Moynes — who fans first got to know on Tayshia Adams and Clare Crawley’s Season 16 of “The Bachelorette” in 2020 — incited conflict among Katie’s men.
“The last thing we want is for someone to come in here and get time with Katie,” Hunter stated in frustration.
During a one-on-one date, Katie and Blake rode horses together before passionately making out in the deserts of New Mexico. “Hey, you’re a good kisser,” Katie told the handsome Canadian. “Check!”
Katie and Blake’s palpable chemistry prompted Connor B. to ask aloud, “Do you see Blake as a contender?” Greg then replied, “Yes, a big one.”
Meanwhile, Blake seemed unbothered by the concerns of Katie’s original suitors. “If some of these guys are mad, I really don’t care,” he said. “I know that they’re not happy to see me.”
Hunter scoffed, “I’ll say it right now. She’s not going to end up with Blake.”
Hunter then upped the ante in his pursuit of Katie. “Hunter comes out of nowhere. He’s taking up our time,” noted Aaron.
“I don’t want to sound cocky. They may see some aggressiveness,” Hunter said in an earlier confessional. “I’m competitive as hell and they’re going to find that out.”
The single dad proved this to be true at a wrestling-themed group date — The Bachelorette's Bash Ball Battle — during which he charged at Katie’s other guys. Hunter's aggression penetrated the entire group and resulted in Justin tackling — and accidentally injuring — Michael A.
Relive the most shocking moments from this week's episode below — and see how Katie’s journey continues to unfold when “The Bachelorette” airs Monday on ABC at 8 p.m. ET.