ABC just announced that Taylor Frankie Paul, the viral #MomTok star and Secret Lives of Mormon Wives personality, is the lead of The Bachelorette Season 22. And yes — this is the first time in 22 years that ABC has chosen someone from completely outside the Bachelor Nation.
In this article, we’ll break down everything — why her casting is historic, what fans are saying, when the season airs, and why this might be the boldest move the franchise has ever made.
What Is The Bachelorette 2025?
If you’re new to the show, here’s a quick rundown. The Bachelorette is one of America’s most popular dating reality TV shows. It first aired in 2003 as a spin-off of The Bachelor.
The concept is simple but addictive:
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One woman (The Bachelorette) dates around 25-30 men over several weeks.
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Through group dates, one-on-one dates, and rose ceremonies, she gradually eliminates contestants until she chooses her final partner.
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The season usually ends with a proposal — sometimes leading to real-life marriages.
Who is Taylor Frankie Paul?
Taylor Frankie Paul isn’t just a social media personality — she’s a cultural conversation starter.
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Age: 31
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Kids: Mom of 3
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Known for: Hulu’s Secret Lives of Mormon Wives
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Social media: Millions of followers on TikTok (#MomTok)
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Viral moments: Her candid confessions about motherhood, relationships, and the infamous “soft-swinging” controversy that sparked massive online debate.
ABC says they wanted a “real story of resilience and redemption” for this season — and Taylor’s life fits the bill perfectly.
Why This Casting Is So Groundbreaking
Usually, The Bachelorette picks a woman who competed on The Bachelor. But this time, ABC flipped the script.
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First-ever outsider: Taylor has never been on The Bachelor or any spin-off.
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Represents a fresh start: After a rocky last season, this move signals ABC’s attempt to re-energize fans.
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Relatability factor: Taylor’s raw, unfiltered personality may connect deeply with a broader audience — even those who don’t normally watch the show.
When Will The Bachelorette 2025 Air?
ABC has confirmed that The Bachelorette Season 22 will premiere in early 2026 — giving Taylor and the production team plenty of time to deliver a season unlike anything we’ve seen before.
Detail | Information |
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Lead | Taylor Frankie Paul |
Announcement Date | September 10, 2025 (on Call Her Daddy podcast) |
Season Number | 22 |
Premiere | Early 2026 (exact date TBD) |
Platform | ABC + Hulu next-day streaming |
Franchise Milestone | First-ever lead from outside Bachelor shows |
Meanwhile, Taylor’s Hulu show The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives will drop its third season in November 2025, so fans will see plenty of her leading up to the premiere.
Fan Reactions: Mixed But Mostly Excited
Social media exploded after the announcement. Some longtime fans love the shake-up, saying it’s exactly what the show needs. Others are skeptical, questioning whether bringing in someone with a past full of controversies is the right move.
Popular Reactions on X (Twitter):
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“Finally, someone not recycled from Bachelor Nation. I’m here for it!”
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“Taylor Frankie Paul? This season is going to be MESSY — and I can’t wait.”
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“Ok this is genius because I’ve been out of the bachelorette for several seasons but this would actually reel me back in and I doubt I’m alone.”
Ok this is genius because I’ve been out of the bachelorette for several seasons but this would actually reel me back in and I doubt I’m alone.
— mrskcmo (@mrsbearkcmo1) September 10, 2025
Engagement Hack: Watch This Sneak Peek
📺 Watch: ABC just dropped a short teaser video of Taylor talking about her hopes for love in 2025.
(Embed or link a teaser video here to boost dwell time!)
Why Taylor’s Season Could Be the Franchise’s Big Comeback
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Ratings boost expected: After a dip in viewership last year, fresh casting might pull casual viewers back.
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New narratives: As a single mom of three, Taylor’s journey will explore themes the show hasn’t focused on much before.
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Drama guaranteed: Taylor is outspoken, funny, and doesn’t shy away from controversy. Expect more authentic moments and less scripted romance.