'The Bachelorette': Frank bails on Ali's Tahitian adventure

Before I begin tonight's recap of "The Bachelorette," I'd just like to thank ABC for completely spoiling this episode weeks ago. Why actually watch the episode when the entire season can fit into a 40-second promo?

At first, this whole thing felt incredibly fabricated and I kept thinking that Frank would come back After the Final Rose, announce that he made a mistake with Nicole, and -- surprise! -- become the next Bachelor. However, halfway through their couch conversation, I got the creepy feeling that we were witnessing something a little bit too real.

When Nicole said, "You need to come home," and Frank smiled at her happily, it became apparent that his feelings for his ex were honest. I was surprised, because he seemed completely obsessed with Ali, but now it looks like he was just overcompensating for his own doubts.

After the Rated R fiasco, I can't wait to see how this goes down. Oh, Frank.

Menwhile, in Tahiti… Is anyone else really sick and tired of helicopter rides? Can't they go somewhere via kayak or vespa or a Chris Harrison piggy-back ride?

Ali and Roberto visit an island that's apparently "in the shape of a heart." You know you're in love when you look at an irregular blob and see a heart shape, I guess.

To be honest, Ali's date with Roberto is pretty boring. They've got the physical chemistry that they've always had, but there doesn't seem to be a ton of substance between them. Still, this is a good week for physical chemistry, since it's time for the Fantasy Suites!

I notice that the cameras spent a lot more time actually in the suites during "The Bachelor" than they are on "The Bachelorette." This entire episode is very tame, considering seasons past. We do get to watch Ali seductively unbuttoning Roberto's shirt, though. Cool.

Chris' obsession with his family is so endearing to me. I loved how Ali fit in with them last week, and now I can just picture them growing old together and having a bunch of preppy kids and a dog and a big back yard in Cape Cod. (Don't worry, Ali, in my imaginary life for you, you're still allowed to work at Facebook.)

Speaking of their future together: Can we discuss Ali's terrible outfit during this date? That is what you wear when you've been together 20 years and the kid vomited on the first shirt you put on this morning and you're too tired for sex so you want your husband to ignore you when he gets home from work. That is not what you wear on the day you finally get to spend the night with your man.

I'm totally Team Chris, now that Frank turned out to be Team Nicole. Chris might not be the brightest bulb in the box (OK, he says "like" four times per sentence) but he seems so genuine and sweet and funny. I loved his panicked search for Chris Harrison when the envelope came out, and when he blurted out, "God, I love you," to Ali during their make-out sesh, I was done for.

I was so swoony over Chris that I almost forgot that we've still got Frank fallout to deal with. Frank does what any sane man who is about to destroy his credibility on national television does: He asks Chris Harrison for advice.

Look, I'm just saying, Chris Harrison's job is to drum up drama. If you need advice on matching your shirt to your eyes, he's your man. If you need advice on how to make a smooth getaway from a reality show? Not so much.

While Frank works out how to be a jerk in the least jerky way, Ali tells the cameras that she's "head over heels" for Frank. "I need this day," she says. Oh, you really, really don't, Ali.

I'll give Frank credit: He seems to be genuinely sorry for hurting Ali. Today, Ali told Zap2it, "I would not put him in the same category as Justin. I still have a lot of respect for Frank. A lot of warm feelings towards him."

This is the sort of thing that happens in relationships every day, but on a reality show schedule there's no room for doubt or spending time working things out.

My real surprise is just how completely wrecked Ali seems by it. I have been avoiding spoilers (except for those ABC shoves down our throats weekly), but I'm guessing that after Frank's big heartbreak, Ali isn't going to choose Chris or Roberto. She seemed like she had her heart set on Frank.

I hope Nicole is worth it, buddy!

What are your thoughts, Show Trackers? Are Frank and Rated R in the same category for you? Are you with me on Team Chris or is Roberto more your type? Are you hoping to never see another helicopter again? Do you know what a heart shape looks like?

Let me know in the comments below, and check back here next week after the reunion special.

--Carina MacKenzie
twitter.com/cadlymack

Photo Credit: ABC

Comments

[Kate]

I think what Frank did was honest and shows he has character. Ali saying it was "cowardly" is totally off-base. Wouldn't she WANT to know if this guy was more interested in someone else than in her? It took a lot of guys for him to approach her and not just bail like Rated R. I commend Frank, and wish him and Nicole the best.

Besides, wasn't Ali busy getting it on with Roberto and then Chris in the fantasy suites anyway? And then she's "totally confused and angry" over Frank? Ummm, right.

[goober natorial]

Seriously, it's mindless prattle about meaningless garbage like this that keeps Americans stupid. Are you satisfied with your life choices? Dissecting obviously staged "reality" television about self-obsessed dimwits for viewers even less intelligent than the mouth breathers they're watching? That English degree really worked out for you, at least you're not a public school teacher, right?

Get a real job.

[Terri N]

I have been rooting for Roberto but it seems like Frank was her man. She says she's fairly confident her future husband is still there and I think it may be Chris. I keep picking the one that they never end up with and should have.

Anyway, both Chris and Roberto seem genuine and would be a good match. We'll see in 2 weeks! I hate the reunion shows. There is nothing I care to see.

[MEL]

You are so funny! I loved reading this!

I was rooting for Frank, so obviously big time bummed when he bailed. I really don't care who she picks now. they are both great guys for sure..but i was all the way Team Franko!

I go back and forth on if she picks someone or not. I think she probably does..and she is playing the confusion card right now to throw people off or maybe the producers want her to do that. who the heck knows anymore with this darn show!

I am Team Ali ultimately. so...if she is happy i don't care if she is single or not. IMO it is her life..we just get to watch part of it!

And as for Frank...to me he is NOT in the same category as Justin...only maybe on one account and that is that they both did a big thing on the show to "drum up drama" which the producers LOVE!

Other then that..they are not the same to me.Justin is a totally different character , she did not have the feelings for him that she did Frank, she got farther along with Frank, they just had a different chemistry in the end. Frank seemed so genuine and still conflicted up to the last minute...even when they were hugging goodbye i wasn't sure what to expect. Would he suddenly realize "wait! i do love you more Ali" oh i was sooooooo hoping he would do that. But, he left. He really must be in mad crazy love with Nicole to leave TAHITI and leave Ali after all of that. Lucky girl Nicole is to win Franks heart! Hopefully he stays with her and stays committed...

Here's the thing...i commend him for saying something even at this point. That took allot of courage and risking your character on national TV. He knew Ali wasn't the one in the end and he did it for himself and also for Ali...this way she can focus on the remaining two guys and if they are the ones...instead of focusing and probably picking a guy that would be desiring another woman.
Apparently he wanted to leave sooner..he wanted to tell her sooner but he was told not too and to wait. So when she aks him "why didnt you say something" i wonder if he wanted to say "because these jerks here told me not too or they would sue me!" hmmmm...

anyway so they peg him as horrible but i felt like he really did care for her ....it seems like he really felt bad he said "i'm sorry" like a hundred times and was crying pretty hard. I have a feeling that Mr. Chris Harrison (who i dont totally trust) and his clan took advantage of this situation and Franks gullibility and franks emotions and twisted into something uglier then it needed to be. *sigh*

I am pretty bored of helicopters and i thought i was the only one that did not see a "heart" shape but maybe from the helicopter you can see it better...

as for what happens in two weeks....i really dont know at this point. I think i keep hoping that Frank will come back and want Ali back....not sure if she would take him back but look what happened in Jason Mesnicks situation!

Thanks for the post...truly funny to read!

[Veronica Tutunjian]

I was surprised that Roberto could not look at Ali's eyes as he was speaking to her... is he doubting? Chris is such a sweetheart and Ali makes him laugh, but Ali has said she needs someone to make her laugh... is he still in the grief stage, which is normal and is vulnerable. Both men look good with Ali..but maybe there is no one really right for her right now...I wouldn't be surprised if she does not become engaged,

[Agent099]

Justin Rated R was joke from the beginning. Frank was so fake I knew he was not true to Ali. He just wanted to travel so he would have more to write about. And what is up with that girlfriend of his Nicole? That whole "come home" scene was wierd. She knew where he was the whole time and why. All in the script. As for who Ali picks, I am team Roberto, just because I am a latino lover. And Chris is a safe choice; he would make a great husband; but can he rock Ali's world? Whoever she picks I think will be fine. But if she doesn't pick Roberto; he should be the next bachelor. Adios!

[James]

I don't know what she saw in Frank. It seems likely that Frank was in this for the free food, travel, and paycheck (if they are paid to appear on the show). Can't blame him for wanting to get out of his parents house for a while since he's unemployed.

Bailing at the final 3 seemed planned by him the whole time.

The way Ali told Chris and Robairrrrdo about what happened seemed disingenuous at best. She seemed really happy with Chris, and there seemed to be a lot more than just physical attraction there which is all I see with her and Robairrrrdo. A shame for Chris that Ali is apparently equipped with loser goggles.

[Pam]

I am definitely team Chris. He is more mature and seems to have more life experiences than Roberto. Frank drives me crazy with his over-analysis of everything! He is a dreamer and will never feel like what he chooses is the right or best decision. He will spend his whole life "finding himself". What a bunch of crap! Ali deserves better and I'm glad Frank is gone. At least she is left with two seemingly great guys and both appear to be in love with her. I already feel bad for the one she will not choose.

[debi]

chris? next bachelor-? he's a mamby pamby in my eyes...so incredibly BORING! whine whine whine...get over it. ali & roberto are so hot together i can see no alternate ending then them being together. (forever) why did frank even bother going to tahiti? he took the place of someone who wanted to be there...not to mention leading ali on...and on...and on! another wuss ass!

[Tee]

Frank is strange.
Ok, I understand his confusion in love, I think we can all relate...but to wait until the Tahiti trip is beyond selfish. What a pig. He could have backed out sooner and let Kirk go along - at least Kirk was deserving of the trip for being REAL! Maybe Frank is just another scared baby like Jake - who can't find any other way to weasel his way out - so he claims to love somebody other than the obvious. I hope for Nicole's sake he truly wants to be with her - otherwise he will surely crush her.

Tahiti is GORGEOUS, wow. That water is amazing. I just love the trips the show takes us all on.

I'm totally confused on who Ali will choose, as she obviously had strong feelings for Frank. Both Chris and Roberto are awesome men and will treat her like a queen. Either way - I don't think she can go wrong.

[rr]

I agree that it all looks sooooooo much made up... but I don't think Frank was genuine.... and I don't think any sane girl in her sane mind would really want to be with such a confused person who goes on national television saying he is here searching for a life partner whom he would be for the rest of his life and after spending weeks and weeks and putting on some weight, go back to his ex who happily opens her doors for him without much qualms and kisses him - on national television....

[Angela B]

I am completely Team Chris. He seems so precious, and he's really hot too! I don't think she'll pick him though, but that's okay. I want him to find for real love, and I don't think that's going to happen on reality tv. I don't think Frank is the douche that Rated R was... He seemed to genuinely not want to hurt Ali, and at least he did the right thing by ending it before she made the final pick.... which would have been him.

[chelsea]

Chris really seems like a great guy. He comes across as really genuine. Is it too much to ask for him to be the next bachelor?

I found the Frank bit so hard to watch. It was so drawn out I kept shouting at my Tv. Frank is just as bad as Rated R and I say this because clearly he was a train wreck from like week 1 and a 1/2. He knew how he was feeling, he knew he didnt want to be there but he didnt have the guts to walk till he had no choice. When I heard him say that as he fell in love with Ali his feelings for his ex also deepened I wanted to slap him. Hes a real coward.

By the way, I think You said in one of your posts the Frank always seems a gust of wind away from a panic attack. LMAO. That still cracks me up...

[Tee]

Good recap Carina, but using a word as "obsessed" to describe Chris' family ties is a bit much. All families should be so lucky to have such close, healthy relationships. That is very rare. More power to them.

Yes, if you base the dates on apparel, Ali definitely dolled it up for Roberto, as opposed for Chris. She even took more care to do her hair. But this could also be an interpretation on how comfortable she feels with Chris. With Roberto it may feel more formal.

On the catty side, one thing that stood out to me throughout the season was Ali's dark roots. I noticed, because I couldn't understand why the show's hair stylist wasn't taking better care of her hair.

When she initially sat down with Frank for "the talk" her hair (sporting flower) appeared to be freshly retouched with color. Then in consecutive scenes where she was clearly shaken, upset and crying, her dark roots were showing again. I think the flower scene was taken after the inital blow. They cleaned her up and reshot the dropping-of-the-bomb scene.

I suppose if I had to choose one man, it would be Chris.

[Meewlee]

Just would like to say I totally agree with your comment about thanking ABC for spoiling yet another episode through their promos! I'm a fan of both Roberto and Chris. Both seem like really nice guys. I really hope she picks someone though, if not to get engaged right away, at least to date after the show!

[Kayla Altieri]

I really did like Frank alot but ABC's promo's really ruined it for the viewers. At least Frank told her how he felt instead of waiting until she picked him on the final episode and us faithful viewers would then have to hear about another breakup like every other couple who is created on the Bachelor and Bachelorlette show. Personally, I feel the show is unrealistic. These relationships will never work out because the couples move way to fast and experience vacations and romance way to early so when you stick them back into their boring lives, there is nothing left to fullfill. I do not know why I continue to watch this show season after season.I guess the sap on this show really knows how to suck me in. The new bacheor pad just looks AWFUL and I wont watch that even if you paid me

[Patsy]

Interesting article - almost need to reread since I've read the comments and seen many interpretations of what has happened. I, too, question the promo.
Did the show think viewers would not be able to handle the Frankfall? Maybe it helped to be prepared since so many of us 'love' Frank. What does he have - was it vulnerability, likeability, a desire to be nice to guys and to Ali? I don't know, but he had me at hello - he was so real in looks, body, and heart. I wonder what happened previously with Nicole - how did she let him go or did absence make the heart grow fonder for both?

What if Ali had said, "No, you're not leaving me yet. I saved myself for you; we are having this one night together - then really kissed him. " Now THAT would be drama, regardless of his reaction. Frank loves both of them - he just couldn't stand not knowing any longer. The way the show built his self-confidence is a redeeming factor for all. Didn't you see his face when she said - I tried to let you know it was you! Shock - sad for everyone, even Nicole having to watch this months later.

[Karen]

I agree with you about Chris. He is sensitive and caring with such respect and love for his family. I really hope Ali can get over Frank and open her eyes to see what Chris has to offer.

As far as Frank is concerned, he continually over analyzed and agonize over everything on this show, you just have to know that he was not on the same page as Ali. It was so obvious. If you have to put so much thought into everything, then the situation is not for you. I was right but I had no idea it was another girl. Too bad Ali didn't see it sooner and confront him with it.

[CJ]

I like Chris, but she won't pick the nice guy. As I have read she picks no one. Really do not get the Frank thing. He is strange and everything is so scripted shot and reshot you don't know what is real. What really drive me crazy is how everyone always acts so surprised when they pull out the date card, as if they did not know it was coming. Been the same since the first show. All an act. Frank should have ducked out before Tahitian show and let Kirk stay. But we all know that she would have picked him and the show is now really over. I would be really surprised if she picks Roberto or Chris. Big mistake though they both seem to be really nice guys. As for Rated R no one is as rotten and selfish as him. In it for all the wrong reasons.. And for the helicopters I sure would like to go on a romantic ride with my husband on one and someone else pay for all of it!

[John]

ABC worked hard to make Justin Rego image as bad boy by bashing him by guys, by taping Craig R on first day , when he stated that Justin was here for wrong reason, how the hell he could know this if they didn't know each other yet.
From ABC. Why ABC taped this ? To create unfriendly atmosphere for Justin. Then host Chris asked bachelors to vote off someone who's here for wrong reason. Almost whole group voted off Justin. IT WAS ON FIRST DAY and first meeting with Ali. Ali saved him by giving him secong rose after Roberto. What faces Craig and good boy Frank had..Camera was always here when Craig Robinson and CO - good boy Frank include - were giggling about Justin, making his present on the show uneasy. ABC knew that Justin went to see Ali. maybe it was his mistake, but ABC knew it , didn't stop him, let him go and taped his walk , more then , they made funny flop shot on his cast which provoced the question if Justin had fake injury.
Everything this made Justin to limit his contacts with the guys that worked against him again..
ABC didn't let Justin to leave the show when he asked. They wanted him to go to Turkey to talk to Ali. But actually they planned to make his leaving nasty. Of, course, Justin understood it, got mad and left, no matter how he looked in this hotel area, where he didn't know where to go.. I'm so sorry for him... Ali could ask him to talk off camera, but she didn't. ABC could turn their camera off, but they didn't. ABC taped Jessica's fake crying on camera before.. ABC wanted to make Justin Rego to look that way. Justin Rego didn't want to hurt Ali too. He wanted to leave. She even didn't try to talk to Justin the way she talked to Frank. Justin Rego image manufactured by ABC.
Freak Frank ? He was traveling aroung the world ,accepting roses, smart.. of, course, ABC knew about his Nicole, taped his trip to his girfriend , bitter tears about Ali in front of confused Nicole.. What is making him better then Justin? O, he went to see Ali on Tahiti. Smart..O, he didn't want to hurt her..But Ali acted with guys in different way. Poor good boy Frank... Justin and Frank are not in the same category. Bad-good..
Gorgeous- bad boy Justin..Not attractive so good boy Frank.. That ABC categories.. Fabricated contrast brough ABC rate increase and MONEY, they worked so hard to destroy one name and to make funny another one.
I guess, that ABC laughing: whatever do you prefer. We got what we want.