Tue Jan 28 06:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Bachelor Nation Mourns: Contestant Pays Tribute to Deceased Grandmother
**LOS ANGELES, CA** – The premiere of “The Bachelor” Season 29 brought a bittersweet moment for viewers and lead Grant Ellis. While the episode began with celebratory fanfare, including the introduction of Linda the No Drama Llama, it ended with a heartbreaking tribute to Ellis’ late grandmother, Corine Frank Russell, who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 82.
Ms. Russell, who made a memorable appearance in Ellis’ introductory video, received a touching tribute from her grandson. Before returning to the Bachelor mansion, Ellis visited his family and presented his grandmother with his first impression rose, explaining it symbolized his love and respect for her. Photos show the heartwarming moment, capturing Ms. Russell’s iconic pink glitter nails as she accepted the rose.
Ellis shared in an interview that his grandmother was a significant influence on his life, teaching him about faith, love, and lasting relationships. He described her as the “rock” of his family and credited her with shaping his values.
Ms. Russell’s obituary reveals she was born in Kinder, Louisiana and is survived by her husband and children. Ellis intends to honor her memory by keeping her spirit alive. “She’s a direct connection of me. And so she’ll always live through me,” he stated.
The emotional tribute served as a poignant reminder of the human element behind the reality TV spectacle, leaving viewers touched by the close bond between Ellis and his beloved grandmother. New episodes of “The Bachelor” air Mondays at 8:00 p.m. ET on ABC.
First Piper 