Nearly two decades after the premiere of The Bachelor, ABC recently debuted a retrospective of the show’s most dramatic moments, from emotional meltdowns to iconic villains to franchise firsts. LaNease Adams, who participated in the series’ opening season, shared the first-ever kiss in Bachelor history with Alex Michel; now that the memorable moment has been reaired on The Greatest Seasons - Ever, the former contestant is ready to reflect on her past experience. Adams—an actress who has appeared on Good Morning America, Access Hollywood, Entertainment Tonight, The Howard Stern Show and more—has moved on after her breakup with Michel, and she has had several relationships since. Below, she looks back to share untold stories from her early days on the show. 

Why did you submit to be on the first season of The Bachelor? How did you hear about the franchise?

I actually didn’t submit to be on The Bachelor! At the time, a friend of mine who was in casting gave me a call and told me that there was a show that he thought that I’d be great for. I had been on a couple of other dating shows, and he thought they might like me for this one. I went on the audition, and the rest was history.


Did you ever expect the series to become as popular as it did?

I would have never, in my wildest dreams, thought that the show would be the phenomenon that it has been. One of my reasons for wanting to participate was that I heard it was an ABC project, so I thought it would be well-done. It surpassed my ideas of what I was in for. The Bachelor made all the other dating shows look like child’s play. The mansions, the limos, the private jets...and that was Season 1. Now, there’s international travel and so much more.


What was your first impression of Alex?

I didn’t expect to like him. I’m pretty picky when it comes to who I’m attracted to, and that’s not on purpose. It’s just who I am. I like smart, funny, kind men, and those are hard to find! I saw those qualities in Alex, and I was feeling him. That‘s what made our kiss so nice.

What’s one thing people may not know about being on the show?

People may not realize that oftentimes, great friendships are formed inside the Bachelor house that last a lifetime. I met one of my very best friends when we did The Bachelor. Eighteen years later, we‘re still close. I’m actually close with a lot of the girls. You form a bond that no one else can really understand.


How does it feel to have had the first-ever Bachelor kiss? What was that moment like?

To be honest, I think it’s kinda cool. I know The Bachelor is a show that people love to hate, but all of us in Season 1 were authentic and there for the right reason—to possibly find love. To be the first kiss on a franchise that has been a huge part of our generation is a fun fact that I’ll always hold near and dear. That moment was pretty nice. I didn’t think that Alex would go for a kiss. I mean, there I was on a gondola with him in Vegas. It felt pretty magical at the time for 23-year-old me. Plus, he was a really good kisser.


Do you have any regrets from your time on the show?

Participation in The Bachelor was not all roses and champagne. There were some wonderful people that were so kind after the show, and there were cool opportunities. But unfortunately, there were some not-so-kind people as well, people who said some terrible things both online and in person. That was hard to handle. I actually ended up going through depression afterward. I don’t regret the show, but I do wish that I hadn't had to deal with so much. Thankfully, I made it through that dark period as a stronger person.

Have you been watching Bachelor seasons since? How has the series changed, in your opinion?

I couldn’t watch it for a good 10 years. There were just too many emotions for me. Now, I enjoy watching it. I’m jealous that these days, they get so many more extravagant dates, but good for them. Hating is not cute. I’m happy that the show has been so successful. I happen to like the creators and producers very much. I’m also happy for Chris Harrison, who I feel has grown up on TV in front of our eyes—he’s great.


Did you find romance post-Bachelor?

I’ve had some wonderful relationships. I’ve experienced deep love that I cherish. I‘m not married, but I do hope that that‘ll be a part of my next journey in love.


What was it like looking back on your season during The Greatest Seasons - Ever?

Looking back at 23-year-old me was tough! I’ve grown so much, and I’m a different person. I’m stronger and a bit wiser.


What advice do you have for future contestants?

Have fun! Remember that life is short. Guard your heart, and remember that this too shall pass.

Follow LaNease on Social Media:

Instagram: @laneaseadams

Facebook: @laneaseadams

Twitter: @laneaseadams

Additional reporting by Anabelle Baum.