These Rules Reveal What Life on The Bachelor is Really Like

TV, movies, podcasts, even music playlists are all off-limits. Contestants aren’t allowed access to any media, so their world revolves entirely around the show. Producers know that with no outside distractions, emotions become amplified — which means more raw reactions and, of course, juicier television.

This blackout makes the mansion feel like its own alternate reality. Without the comfort of favorite shows or playlists, contestants lean harder on each other for comfort and drama. By the time filming wraps, many say they feel totally detached from the real world.