Bachelor’s Dina Reflects on Family Impact Ahead of Hometown Dates

CHICAGO, Illinois — Dina Lupancu, a contestant on the current season of The Bachelor, recently shared how her upbringing in a large family influences her romantic life. Appearing on season 29, Lupancu, 31, has expressed that growing up as one of 11 siblings has left her feeling somewhat guarded in the dating scene.

During a recent episode, she told Bachelor Grant Ellis, “A lot of people are a little intimidated, especially in the dating world. Little bit of an ice queen, I’ve been told that my entire life.” She attributes this perception to her family background, stating, “We didn’t talk about our feelings. In my relationships, I held back a lot.”

Dina’s parents emigrated from Romania to the United States, ultimately settling in Chicago where they welcomed their large family. She emphasized the traditional values upheld by her family and acknowledged her struggle to meet their expectations while still being true to herself. “My family’s a little bit more traditional. No one in my family has really done anything like this. There’s a very specific way that they expect you to be, but they know I’ve always kind of been different,” she said.

The season’s hometown episode promises to reveal how Dina’s family dynamic may play into her relationship with Grant. A source shared in a teaser that her family is very protective, stating, “They do not bring anyone into their family just because.” Grant himself reflected in a confessional, “The family not buying in could be a deal-breaker.”

In her ABC bio, Dina describes herself as an attorney specializing in product liability and mass tort litigation. She reiterated that she is seeking a partner who embodies kindness, ambition, and a strong family orientation, qualities possibly shaped by her own experiences within a big household.

The finale of the hometown dates remains uncertain for Dina, as Grant faces difficult decisions. Prior to his visit with Dina’s family, he decided to send home contestant Alexe Godin, which surprised many viewers who believed the two shared a strong connection after getting the first one-on-one date. During that date, they bonded closely over shared experiences with non-traditional family dynamics.

Despite their initial chemistry, Grant later expressed concerns about connecting with other contestants. “It’s tough in this position to be fair with everyone,” he shared in his confessional, indicating how complex these interpersonal relationships can become.

As the season progresses, viewers will watch closely as Dina and other contestants navigate their blossoming relationships against the backdrop of family influences and personal histories. The Bachelor airs Mondays at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.