Ep 1. Week 1: Season Premiere

In the premiere episode of The Bachelorette season 17, viewers are introduced to the newest leading lady, Katie Thurston, as she begins her journey to find love with the help of host Chris Harrison and a group of eligible bachelors.

The episode kicks off with a brief introduction to Katie, a 30-year-old bank marketing manager from Washington who made a name for herself during her time on Matt James' season of The Bachelor. She's charismatic, confident, and unapologetically herself, and she's determined to find a partner who shares those same qualities.

As the limos begin to arrive at the resort where the show is filming, viewers get their first glimpse at some of this season's contestants, ranging from a former baseball player to a motivational speaker to a Canadian firefighter. Some of them make grand entrances, like Connor B., who shows up in a full cat costume complete with a meowing pun ("I'm here to paw-sibly steal your heart"). Others keep it simple, like Brendan, who arrives in a classic white suit and flowers.

Once all the men have arrived, Katie gets a chance to mingle with them during the first cocktail party of the season. She quickly forms connections with some of the men, like Greg, who brings her a hand-written letter, and Mike P., who bonds with her over their shared experiences of losing a parent.

As the night goes on, tensions begin to rise between some of the men, particularly when it comes to one contestant, Karl. He seems to be stirring up drama among the group, and several of the other men express concerns to Katie about his intentions.

The episode ends with Katie having to make some difficult decisions during the first rose ceremony of the season. Although she's clearly interested in several of the men, she ultimately has to say goodbye to a handful of them, leaving the remaining bachelors to continue to vie for her heart in the weeks to come.

Overall, the season premiere of The Bachelorette season 17 sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting and drama-filled journey for Katie and her suitors. With a diverse and interesting group of contestants, viewers are sure to be on the edge of their seats as they watch Katie navigate the ups and downs of finding love on national television.