The Bachelor's Shiann Lewis Leads With No Regrets
Peter Weber’s most recent season of The Bachelor featured a shocking, dramatic conclusion: in a nutshell, Weber got engaged to Hannah Ann Sluss, broke off the engagement to pursue runner-up Madison Prewett, and ultimately ended up alone. Season 24 was filled with surprises that constantly left viewers coming back for more, from a champagne catfight to Weber’s golf cart incident to Barb Weber (Peter’s mother)’s public denunciation of Prewett during the finale. Contestant Shiann Lewis was along for the ride--in an exclusive interview below, she’s not holding anything back.
Why did you submit to be on The Bachelor?
My dating life at the time was rough, to say the least, so when the casting call came around, I figured there was no reason not to apply. I was 27, single, and ready to mingle! The normal dating scene [where I live] in Vegas is hard and didn’t work for me at all. I thought maybe something a little more unconventional could work.
How did you decide which outfit you would wear on night one?
I went dress shopping with my mom and my sister, and it was so stressful! I wanted something that was classy but made a statement and made me stand out. I had two dresses, and I couldn't decide which one I wanted to get, so I bought both. A backup is always a good idea, right?
What was your first impression of Peter when you stepped out of the limo?
When I stepped out of the limo, I thought, “Wow.” He looked so freaking handsome--I couldn't even handle it. I seriously couldn't stop smiling. I was so nervous! I even told him as I walked away, "You’re so handsome," and he yelled back, "You're beautiful.” It was cute.
What was the first night like for you?
The first night was absolutely insane for me. There was so much going on! You're trying to mingle with the girls but also trying to get time with Peter without seeming crazy or “extra.” Emotions ran high, the night was long, and I was just hoping my conversation with him went well and that he’d enjoy it enough to want to keep me and give me a rose. I felt so overwhelmed, especially when the things I’d planned for that night fell through, and that conversation with Hannah Ann went...left (editor’s note: Sluss stole Weber away from Lewis after she had already spoken to him twice that evening).
Who were some of your closest friends in the mansion?
In the mansion, there were a few girls that I would say I was close with, especially in my room. I would say that Sarah [Coffin] and I were pretty close. We would always be in the kitchen cooking or singing and giving each other concerts in the bathroom. We pretty much started a cover band. Victoria [Fuller] and I were good friends, too. That girl kills me because she’s so hilarious--we would be in actual tears from laughing so hard.
What was your favorite date you went on, and why?
I would definitely say my favorite date was the football date in Cleveland. I’m very athletic and can be super competitive, so that date was up my alley. It was so much fun getting out on the field and being able to leave the hotel and be active. Peter was so into that date, too. I still can't believe we played actual tackle football. The bruises on my arms after that were so bad--it was crazy. I'm still waiting to be signed to the NFL as the next star running back.
What are your thoughts on how Peter’s journey ended?
Honestly, I’m shook, “shooketh,” as Tammy [Ly] would say. I can see how he was so stuck between Hannah Ann and Madi. They're both amazing girls, but for totally different reasons. I feel like some of the situations could have definitely been handled differently, which could have made the ending a little different. Maybe it could have helped Peter be more decisive. But I know he was really trying to follow his heart, and when it's being pulled in two different directions, it can be really tough, especially when you let other things influence your decisions so much.
Do you have any regrets?
I have absolutely no regrets. I loved my journey on The Bachelor. I made amazing friendships, and Peter was so great.
Would you consider going on Bachelor in Paradise?
Of course. I’m still looking for my other half and partner in crime. Who knows? I might find that person on the beach in Mexico.
Follow Shiann on Social Media:
Instagram: @shiannjanay
Twitter: @shiannjanay
Photo Credit: ABC Press