"The Bachelor" season premiere: Sean Lowe hands out multiple roses

Sean Lowe got another shot at love Monday night with the premiere of "The Bachelor," where he met 26 women and narrowed the pool down to 19.

The 28-year-old Texas native returns to ABC after finishing as the second runner-up during Emily Maynard's season of "The Bachelorette" in 2012.

So, what is Lowe looking for as he takes another stab at an on-screen, real-life romance? According to the opening monologue, Lowe said he hopes to one day live in a "house full of love and laughter."

The episode got under way with Arie Luyendyk, the runner-up of Maynard's season, who stopped by to give Lowe some advice.

"You're not just kissing. You're kissing with your whole body," Luyekdyk told his buddy in the season 17 premiere.

Then it was time to meet the ladies, many of whom tried to make a memorable first impression on the former Kansas State linebacker. Lindsay, a 24-year-old substitute teacher from Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., showed up in a wedding gown and surprised Lowe when she planted a kiss on him. Ashley P., meanwhile, pulled out a grey tie, in an attempt to reference the book "Fifty Shades of Grey."

The episode also featured a little surprise when host Chris Harrison told Lowe, "Somebody called and said she wanted to meet you here tonight."

Former contestant Kacie B., 25, from Ben Flajnik's season, returned and is also in the running. "I'm blown away right now," Lowe said. Kacie told him she wanted "to see if there's a possibility of something between us."

Lowe's first rose went to Tierra, a 24-year-old leasing consultant from Denver, Colo. "You have this sweet, exciting ... such a good energy," Lowe told her.

He then proceeded to change things up a bit, breaking the rules by handing out a rose to every woman he wants to get to know more -- not saving the coveted rose solely for the first woman he chooses.

Sarah, 26, an advertising executive from Los Angeles, who was born without part of one arm, was among the rose-getters. "You're beautiful," Lowe said.

"It's easier to date a girl with two arms," Sarah said to the cameras, adding, "It's validation. It's a huge symbol of empowerment and confidence and love. This is a total dream come true."

Lowe's 19 roses were handed out to Tierra, Selma, Robyn, Jackie, Leslie H., Sarah, Brooke, Catherine, Katie, Diana, Amanda, Desiree, AshLee F., Lesley M., Kacie B., Kristy, Daniella, Taryn and Lindsay.

During the airing of Monday's episode, Lowe offered commentary on his Twitter account.

"The Bachelor" returns Monday at 8 p.m. ET.