July 02, 2021 • bachelor insider
Michael Allio Opens Up About Being a Single Dad and 'Superhero' to His Son James
Fans fell in love with Michael Allio after he opened up about the death of his wife, Laura — and his joy in raising their son, James, 4 — during an emotional one-on-one date with Katie Thurston on "The Bachelorette" Season 17.
Chatting exclusively with BachelorNation.com, the standout contestant shared more about adjusting to life as a single dad after Laura passed away from cancer in 2019.
"It tests me in ways I’d never thought possible," Michael explained. "And yet, through it all, it is hands down the most rewarding and satisfying role I will ever have."
He continued, "For those lucky enough to hold the title, fatherhood grants us a unique gift — to experience the world again through a child’s eyes. To see our world as it was always intended to be seen: through the watchful, inquisitive, and kind eyes of a child. I guess magic is real after all."
Asked how fatherhood has changed him, Michael joked, "I used to have a lot more energy. Now I don’t. Does that count?"
On a more serious note, the Ohio-based business owner noted that his favorite part of being a dad is "getting to wear the cape." He elaborated, "Hopefully, I always remain a superhero in his eyes."
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Michael also shared advice for fellow single parents. “No matter how much I predict, prepare, and plan, life doesn’t care,” he acknowledged. “My advice is to find the humor in everything, be OK with things not being OK, and never allow the stresses of tomorrow steal your today.”
Looking forward to the future, the franchise star said he hopes to teach James the “importance of serving something greater than yourself.”
“So many people are in desperate need of the beautiful gift of you,” Michael elaborated, echoing a sentiment he frequently expresses to James. “Don’t keep them waiting.”
One thing James might have to wait for, however, is watching his father’s “Bachelorette” journey.
“No, I wouldn’t let him watch. He’s only 4!” Michael said before quipping, “And, also, he’s more of a ‘Paradise’ kinda guy.”
Catch up with more Bachelor Nation dads here.
