The Bachelorette: The show we hate to love and love to hate. But do we even hate it? I’m embarrassed to admit that I really don’t. In fact, I’m often impressed with the trickery that the producers employ to turn real-life people into villains, heroes, and martyrs, and the views that rack up as a result. Even more so, I love the cast of this particular season – the group of guys includes individuals whose traits we hardly ever saw in previous seasons. While the buff alpha male types are still ever-present (Jordan and Alex, I’m looking at you), some of the eligible bachelors have been really cool, down to earth, relatable people: Wells, the easy-going, lanky radio DJ, and James Taylor, the fun-loving and upbeat musician, to name a few.

But one person who’s stood out to me and many other swooning watchers from the start is the brooding and mysterious Luke Pell. It’s impossible to ignore his presence, visible passion, and Chad Michael Murray-esque smolder, and I’m definitely not the first to be enchanted by him through a television screen (like I said, embarrassing yet true). Here are seven reasons why Luke Pell is undoubtedly my favorite member of this season’s cast.

1. He came in on a freaking unicorn.

I figured this was a good place to start. Can we just talk about this for a second? Aside from the fact that Luke was adorably trying to imitate Jojo’s entrance from last season, he also proved his status as a literal knight in shining armor. Compare to Daniel “Canadian” Maguire’s “damn Daniel” approach, Chase’s “I mustache you a question” line, and Evan’s eloquent “God bless America”, Luke came out a winner in the meet-and-greet category. Of course, the show saved him last for extra effect.

2. He's basically prince charming.

For such a staged television series, the connection between Jojo and Luke is surprisingly real – so much so that their chemistry is evident in practically every interaction

they share. I usually come to the show for laughs (the hilariously awkward moments are abundant), yet I can’t help but smile and feel a little romantic each time they kiss.

3. He's mature and keeps to himself.

While Alex sports a peculiar superiority complex and squares up to every guy on the show for no

reason, Luke can usually be spotted on the sidelines, minding his own business and avoiding unnecessary confrontation. Above he can be seen staring off into the distance, chewing pensively.

4. He's a talented and successful musician.

Luke holds his own in comparison to today’s most popular country artists, and his smooth, soulful voice has brought him local fame: according to his Instagram, he’s played at multiple venues in his home state of Texas. Serenade, anyone?

5. He's humble and grateful.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V4vV37lhsA

In his introduction on the show, Luke expresses gratitude for his hometown roots and touches on his nine years serving in the military. “I’ve lost a lot of close friends . . . it gave me a new appreciation for life and for relationships,” he explains. From what we can tell, he speaks nothing but the truth: his positivity and authenticity radiate.

6. He's undeniably funny (often in a weird way).

No comment on this outro – only laughing required.

7. He's as handsome as they come, and doesn't even seem to know it.

The only thing that’s more attractive than an attractive guy is a guy that doesn’t realize how attractive he is. Thank you, Luke Pell, for taking our collective breath away, but also for being so awesome, so real, so romantic, and so kind. If you don’t steal Jojo’s heart this season, here’s hoping you’re our next Bachelor!