The Bachelor SA
Season 1 M-Net (*101) 19:00 Reality
Lee Thompson is hoping to upgrade his Cape Town bachelor pad for something more settled when season 1 of reality show The Bachelor SA (2019- current) ends after 13 episodes. “One of the key criteria was that The Bachelor must be committed,” explains Lee. “Committed to finding true love and to share it with viewers. I fit that bill. I’m your relatable South African guy who’s accomplished certain goals in business, my sporting career and my modelling career.”
M-Net was also looking for someone confident in front of the camera and Lee being easy on the eye doesn’t hurt at all. While the Average Joe would be nervous on camera, it wasn’t a biggie for Lee having a team videotaping his dates with the 24 ladies hoping to win his heart. “The way that I approached this was to have my love story play out while there happens to be cameras around filming. I am still myself, 100% authentic and confident Lee.”
Something else authentic was Lee’s interactions with the ladies, which continues tonight as he goes on more first dates. “The crew kept the ladies’ info secret because they wanted our first meetings to be real. They did reassure me that they’re a great bunch of beautiful and well accomplished women,” he says with a smile. “That first night was nerve-racking but exciting and fun.”
We’re on episode 3 and 4 and while Lee puts on a composed face, not handing a rose to some of the women after their dates did gnaw at him, says the 31-year-old Lee. “I’m usually composed and in control. As viewers will see, my emotions get the better of me a few times and [host] Jason Greer had to step and console me.” NB! See more on p34.