Lee Thompson is apparently looking for love, and what better way to find it than to have 24 women constantly compete for his attention whilst cameras catch the drama and South Africans gawk from their living rooms?

The Bachelor SA premiered last night, having already courted controversy when Thompson was announced as the leading man back in October.

In the interest of honesty, let me say that I abhor shows like this, but have you ever watched something that’s so awkward, so cringeworthy, that it’s actually kind of, dare I say it, entertaining?

For one episode, at least, and then you can go back to watching local productions that are worth your time.

During the 13-episode show, Lee will hand out roses to his favourites, slowly whittling down the 24 women, with three sent home last night.

If you want to meet the 24 women, Channel24 has a profile on each here.

It’s clear that some are there to boost their online presence (influencers, models, more models and a side of fitfluencers), whilst others look a little ‘deer in the headlights’ every time the camera is trained on them.

Whatever your feelings, here’s the first episode, which aired last night. Valentine’s Day – for overpriced roses and reality shows about love.

Get your cringe on (if that video doesn’t appear, then you can head to YouTube and watch it here):

[source:channel24]