The Bachelor Week 5: Zach Shallcross’s COVID-19 Diagnosis Shakes Up London Dates and Leads to Unforgettable Virtual Rose Ceremony

Week five of The Bachelor promised a romantic escape to London, a pivotal moment for Zach Shallcross and the eleven remaining women vying for his heart. As the journey neared its midway point, opportunities for deep connections became increasingly precious, and the picturesque British capital offered a fresh backdrop for blossoming romances. The initial days in London sparkled with the promise of new beginnings and unforgettable experiences, setting a high bar for the week’s events and the crucial one-on-one and group dates.

The week began on a high note, with Bachelor Zach Shallcross embarking on a truly enchanting one-on-one date with Gabi Elnicki. Their day together was a masterclass in romance, as Zach treated Gabi with the utmost care and affection, making her feel like royalty. From exploring London’s charming streets to intimate conversations, their chemistry was undeniable, and their connection deepened significantly. By the evening’s end, it was clear that Gabi had made a profound impression, and Zach sealed their strong bond by presenting her with a coveted rose, ensuring her place for another week and confirming their burgeoning relationship.

Meanwhile, the anticipation back at the hotel was palpable as the other women learned about the upcoming dates. Charity Lawson was thrilled to discover she would be receiving the second one-on-one date, a prime opportunity to spend exclusive time with Zach away from the distractions of the group. The remaining nine ladies braced themselves for the week’s group date, eager to make their mark and further their individual connections with the Bachelor. However, the excitement was abruptly cut short on the morning of the scheduled group date. A sudden and unexpected turn of events cast a shadow over their plans: Zach was feeling unwell, leading to the unfortunate and immediate cancellation of the much-anticipated group outing. While the women still had the chance to venture out and experience the historic city of London as planned, Zach’s absence was keenly felt. Despite their best efforts to enjoy the sights and make the most of their time, a palpable sense of anxiety and disappointment permeated the group, as many expressed their deep concern over losing invaluable time with Zach – time that was essential for fostering and solidifying their relationships.

The situation escalated further by the evening. Zach’s condition had not improved sufficiently for him to participate in the crucial nighttime portion of the group date, which typically involves intimate conversations and a rose presentation. This prolonged absence created a wave of frustration, particularly among women like Mercedes Northup and Greer Blitzer, who had not yet secured a one-on-one date with Zach. The fear of being overlooked and the anxiety of their chances to form a genuine connection dwindling became increasingly real. Their worries were amplified the following morning when host Jesse Palmer delivered the devastating news: Zach had tested positive for COVID-19. The diagnosis meant not only an indefinite period of isolation for Zach but also the immediate cancellation of Charity’s much-anticipated one-on-one date, plunging the entire cast into a state of uncertainty and emotional turmoil. The dream London week had quickly transformed into a challenging ordeal, testing the patience and resolve of everyone involved.

Zach, confined to his hotel room in isolation, was understandably devastated by the turn of events. His role as the Bachelor meant constant interaction and connection, and being sidelined by illness during such a crucial week was a significant blow. The weight of his responsibilities and the potential impact on his journey to find love bore heavily on him. However, his spirits received a much-needed lift when Kaity Biggar, demonstrating remarkable thoughtfulness and initiative, ventured to his hotel room with a carefully prepared “get well” basket. Kaity and Zach had previously shared a memorable overnight date during their one-on-one earlier in the season, establishing a solid and undeniable connection. Her gesture spoke volumes, as she spent several minutes sitting just outside his door, engaging in a heartfelt conversation through the barrier. Zach was deeply touched by her extra effort and compassion, recognizing it as a clear sign of their strong and genuine bond amidst the chaos and disappointment of the week.

Although still in quarantine due to his positive COVID-19 test, Zach’s health improved considerably the following day. Determined not to let the virus completely derail his search for love, he made a groundbreaking decision: to host a virtual cocktail party and rose ceremony. This unprecedented move in Bachelor history allowed Zach to connect with the women remotely, offering a unique, albeit unconventional, opportunity for interaction. Most of the women embraced the virtual format, cherishing the chance to have some face time with Zach, even if it was through a screen. The FaceTime dates, while different, were largely successful, allowing for laughter, shared smiles, and some continued connection. However, one interaction stood out, and not for the right reasons. Greer Blitzer, who had previously received the coveted first impression rose this season, attempted to empathize with Zach’s predicament. She explained that she understood how challenging his situation was because she had also contracted COVID-19 at a difficult time – specifically, when work was exceptionally busy for her at the end of a sales quarter. While Greer’s intentions may have been good, her comparison, unfortunately, landed flat, leaving Zach visibly taken aback by her choice of words and perspective.

Zach, known for his honesty and directness, didn’t shy away from expressing his feelings regarding Greer’s analogy. He carefully articulated his perspective, highlighting the profound difference in their situations. “I think it’s completely different, from my perspective, from me being frustrated on finding my future wife versus the end of a sales quarter,” Zach stated candidly. He went on to emphasize the immense emotional investment he had placed in this particular week, stressing the deep frustration stemming from the unexpected obstacles. While acknowledging Greer’s lack of ill intent, Zach felt it was crucial to clarify the stakes involved. “It’s not the same,” he reiterated. “In a few short weeks, I could be standing in front of my person, and that means a lot more to me than the end of a sales quarter.” His words underscored the gravity of his journey and the unique pressures of seeking a life partner under such intense circumstances, making it clear that his personal quest for love transcended any professional or mundane comparison.

Despite the candid, albeit uncomfortable, exchange, Zach and Greer managed to conclude their virtual conversation on a slightly lighter note, attempting to smooth over the awkwardness. However, the emotional impact on Greer was undeniable. Following her interaction with Zach, she was visibly distraught and overwhelmed, breaking down in tears as she recounted the situation to the other women. Greer was convinced that her message hadn’t resonated well with Zach, particularly given the extremely limited and impersonal virtual time they had together. The fear of being misunderstood and the potential ramifications for her journey on the show weighed heavily on her, leading to a profound worry that her attempt at empathy had, in fact, jeopardized her chances of receiving a rose at the upcoming ceremony. The emotional toll of the virtual interaction, combined with the general stress of the week, left her feeling vulnerable and uncertain about her future with Zach.

As the unprecedented virtual rose ceremony commenced, tension filled the air, with every woman acutely aware of the week’s challenges and the limited opportunities to connect. Despite her earlier misstep and her profound fears, Greer ultimately received a rose from Zach, granting her another week in the competition and offering a glimmer of hope for redemption. However, not everyone was as fortunate. In a heartbreaking moment, Kylee Russell and Mercedes Northup did not receive roses, marking the end of their journeys with Zach and their time on The Bachelor. Their eliminations underscored the harsh reality of the competition, even amidst a week filled with unexpected hurdles. With nine determined women remaining, the focus now shifts to the weeks ahead, with everyone, including Zach, eagerly anticipating the opportunity for more meaningful, in-person interactions and a return to the traditional path of finding lasting love on The Bachelor. The London COVID scare served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of love and life, but the journey, resilient as ever, continues.