Red roses, lavish fantasy suites and sparkling engagement rings. For many people, the combination of these three things conjures up the image of a romantic wedding or simply being in a relationship. For millions of other people, however, these words hold a much deeper meaning, sparking excitement for season 21 of “The Bachelor.”

The show’s producers made a surprising decision in the fall of 2016 when they crowned “The Bachelorette” seasons’ 10 and 11 villain Nick Viall as the newest bachelor.

Viall, 36, made it to the finale on both Andi Dorfman’s and Kaitlyn Bristowe’s seasons, but was sent home mid-proposal both times. After shaming Dorfman for the couple’s sexual endeavors in the fantasy suite and making a late and forceful entrance on Bristowe’s season, Viall appeared far from being in the running for the position of the bachelor.

He was able to redeem himself, however, during season three of “The Bachelor in Paradise.” In just 11 episodes, Viall transformed himself from a narcissistic, overly emotional bully to a laid-back, charming bachelor-worthy man.

Now, four months after the season finale of “The Bachelor in Paradise,” Viall’s fourth attempt to find love began with the season premier of “The Bachelor” on Jan. 2.

And this season is already showing signs of being one of the most dramatic in bachelor history.

Viall was caught off guard early in the night by contestant Corrine Olympios’ forwardness as she kissed him in clear sight of the other women. Also, Elizabeth Sandoz shocked the audience by revealing that she had already met Viall and shared an intimate night with him nine months ago at the wedding of previous contestants Jade Roper and Tanner Tolbert.

“The Bachelor” is also crossing racial boundaries this season with Viall’s decision to give the all-important first impression rose to Rachel Lindsay, the first African American to receive the first rose on either “The Bachelor” or “The Bachelorette.”

With this season already heating up, members of Bachelor Nation better save time in their schedules every Monday night as this season is sure to bring more of the much-anticipated fights, tears, dates and maybe even an engagement ring.