ABC has officially announced Taylor Frankie Paul as the new lead for season 22 of The Bachelorette, a move that has shocked the reality television world. The announcement, made on the Call Her Daddy podcast, marks a significant departure from the franchise’s traditional casting, as Paul is not a former contestant from the Bachelor universe.
This bold decision signals a new creative direction for the long-running show, aiming to broaden its appeal by tapping into the pre-existing fame of a social media star and reality TV personality.
Paul, who is 31 years old and a single mother of three, catapulted into the spotlight as a member of the viral #MomTok community. Her story gained national attention after a “soft-swinging” scandal involving her and her ex-husband, Tate Paul, which was a subject of intense public speculation and online debate.
@taylorfrankiepaul Something so ordinary that brings so much joy. #momtok #singlemom #mundane ♬ Ordinary (Wedding Version) – Alex Warren
The Hulu reality series, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, chronicles her journey from TikTok influencer to mainstream media personality. The show follows Paul and her fellow “MomTok” friends, including Jennifer Affleck, Whitney Leavitt, and others, as they navigate the aftermath of the scandal, family drama, and the complexities of their public lives.
The casting of Taylor Frankie Paul is a strategic gamble by ABC, betting that her existing fanbase and compelling personal narrative will draw in new viewers. The announcement was met with a mix of excitement and skepticism from Bachelor Nation, as fans have grown accustomed to seeing a familiar face from a previous season. However, ABC and host Jesse Palmer have promised that the
During her podcast interview, Paul candidly discussed her reservations about taking on the role, particularly due to her family situation. As a co-parent to her two children with ex-husband Tate Paul and a son with her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, Paul admitted that the demands of filming and traveling would be a significant challenge.
However, she expressed a determination to “make it work,” drawing inspiration from her co-stars who have successfully balanced their careers and family lives. This is a journey she has committed to fully, understanding that it will require a strong support system from her family, including her mother, Liann, and stepfather, Jeremy, who have been featured on her Hulu show.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this casting is the potential for crossover drama. Paul has confirmed that she will remain a part of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, which is set to return in November 2025.
This means audiences will have the unique opportunity to follow her journey on two different reality shows simultaneously, adding a fascinating layer of public scrutiny and interconnected storylines. Her co-stars, Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt, are also expanding their horizons with appearances on Dancing with the Stars, further solidifying the interconnected reality TV universe.
Taylor Frankie Paul’s path to becoming the Bachelorette is a testament to the unpredictable nature of modern celebrity and the evolving landscape of reality television. Her story resonates with audiences who have followed her through her personal struggles, including her divorce and the very public fallout. By choosing a lead who is not only a single mother but also one who has been so open about her life’s messiness, ABC is making a statement that they are looking for a different kind of love story.
This season of The Bachelorette is poised to be more than just a search for love; it’s a reflection of contemporary life, where love, family, and public persona are intricately intertwined. The all-new season, premiering in 2026, promises to be an unpredictable and captivating chapter for the beloved franchise, as Paul balances motherhood, fame, and her earnest search for a partner.
