Jason Mesnick

We met this season's lovable Bachelor, Jason Mesnick, last year on The Bachelorette and quickly learned the Seattle divorced dad is raising his son Ty all by his lonesome. Jason's devotion to Ty was central to almost every conversation he had on the show so it comes as no surprise that the lil guy will play a role (and make appearances) during his father's quest for a wife.

While I understand the appeal of Jason's sporty and sweet dad persona, I was shocked to learn how many of the female contestants on the show have young children at home. The fact that Jason is open to finding a family for Ty and that producers are willing to cast mothers is applaud-worthy, but is the chance at love worth leaving your child?
Photos copyright 2009 ABC, Inc.

Tonight on ABC another eligible single will take to the small screen to find fame everlasting love — and a stepmother for his child. Yes, for the first time ever, the man of the hour is a single dad. If you watched The Bachelorette, you may recognize this guy, Jason Mesnick, as the one DeAnna Pappas didn't choose right after he told her how much he loved her. In other words, he was jilted!

The whole thing made Jason a fan favorite, which will likely help with ratings. Plus, as a Seattle divorcée raising his son Ty, there's a little twist to his story that might make this season more interesting than usual. Despite how improbable it seems that one might find his/her soul mate on reality television, I still find myself drawn to this show.

What about you? Will you be tuning in to the season premiere tonight?

Photo copyright 2008 ABC, Inc.