The people have spoken — or folks on Twitter have. ABC’s “Bachelor” and “Bachelorette” are well overdue for a person of color to be in charge of handing out the roses. Out of 28 seasons, 18 from the “Bachelor” and 10 of the “Bachelorette,” we’ve yet to see a single representation of diversity at the helm.
Marquel Martin, the suave 27-year-old sponsorship salesman, wooed hearts when he flashed his bright smile in the introduction to Andi Dorfman.
The feisty assistant district attorney probably won’t earn the title of Most Likable Bachelorette, but we have to give her credit. Her decision to see beyond color, and keep Martin around long enough to collect a few roses, speaks volumes for her character.
In return, she had the opportunity to get to know a handsome, young businessman with a world of potential. Unfortunately, he was eliminated on Monday’s episode along with Andrew Poole and Patrick Jagodzinski.
Just because he isn’t on the show anymore, doesn’t mean he didn’t leave a lasting impression on viewers. Martin was informed by fellow contestant JJ O’Brien that he was mocked by Poole during the first rose ceremony. O’Brien alleges that Poole leaned over and whispered: “She gave the rose to the two blackies,” in reference to former contestant Ron Worrell as well. He tweeted a screenshot of how it went down as the show aired.
These guys have been together for weeks, and though they are competitors all vying for a relationship with Dorfman, they’ve developed true friendships. Martin was shocked and hurt by his supposed friend’s words, and decided to confront him. He eventually shook it off, and saved the bulk of his emotions for the confessional interview.
“It’s crazy to think that the first thing people are going to recognize about me is he’s the black guy,” he said through tears. “It’s not like, ‘Hey, that dude’s a good dude, he was respectful, I’m sure he was raised right. I’m sure he has strong beliefs.’”
Martin’s courage to display vulnerability and pain with the one issue that hangs over the show’s head was incredible to watch. It moved viewers to launch a social media campaign to give him his own shot at love. #MarquelForBachelor has been trending on social media since the show aired Monday night.
“If Marquel isn’t the next Bachelor, I’m never watching the Bachelor or Bachelorette ever again,” is one of the tweets appealing for his appointment.
https://twitter.com/DancingDoctor18/status/479284054513451008
Even Sean Lowe, Season 17’s Bachelor is gunning for Martin’s chance in the spotlight. “Too soon to start the Marquel for Bachelor campaign? Think about it @ABCNetwork.”
What are the odds? Martin obviously has the looks, the charm and the fan base. Here’s to hoping ABC gives a deserving guy a chance.