The wait is finally over, and The Bachelorette has its newest leading lady. Taylor Frankie Paul, a 31-year-old mother of three and familiar face from Hulu’s The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, has officially been chosen to hand out roses in Season 22 of the long-running reality franchise.
The announcement dropped on September 10, 2025, during Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast, and fans across Bachelor Nation are already buzzing with mixed emotions—excitement, curiosity, and of course, plenty of hot takes.
From TikTok Fame to Reality TV Spotlight
Taylor Frankie Paul isn’t exactly new to the spotlight. She first gained attention through the #MomTok community on TikTok, where her candid posts and family-focused content built her a massive following. Her name later made headlines when she appeared in Hulu’s The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, a reality series that chronicled the unconventional dynamics and struggles of her personal life.
Taylor has openly shared her experiences with divorce, co-parenting, and even controversies that sparked public debates online. What sets her apart is how transparent she’s been about the ups and downs of her journey—something fans believe could bring a refreshing level of honesty to The Bachelorette.
During her reveal, Taylor admitted that the idea of leading the show started off almost as a joke. But when ABC reached out with an official offer, she couldn’t say no. “I just felt like maybe this is my chance to finally find love again,” she said on the podcast.
Why This Season Feels Different
Her casting is more than just a headline—it marks a major first for the franchise. Unlike most past Bachelorettes, Taylor has never been a contestant on The Bachelor or any related spin-off. This move signals a clear shift in strategy for ABC, as the producers are focusing on relatability and real-life challenges rather than sticking strictly to the franchise’s usual pool of alumni.
For many fans, this choice feels refreshing. Taylor’s story is imperfect and layered, making her a figure people either root for or critique—but either way, they’re invested. ABC seems to be banking on exactly that kind of authenticity to reignite interest in the show.
Of course, not all reactions have been positive. Some critics have questioned whether her past controversies could overshadow the romance at the heart of the series. But others argue that her resilience and willingness to own her story make her one of the most compelling leads the show has had in years.
When Will It Air?
If you were expecting roses to bloom on screen this fall, there’s a twist. The Bachelorette is taking a break for 2025, with Taylor’s season officially set to premiere in early 2026. ABC decided to hit pause this year, giving the franchise time to reset and bring a fresh perspective to its next chapter.
For longtime fans, the delay might be disappointing, but it also builds anticipation. By the time Taylor steps out of the limo on night one, viewers will have been waiting for over a year—making this one of the most hyped seasons in recent memory.
What’s Next for Taylor?
While fans count down to her Bachelorette debut, Taylor won’t be disappearing from screens. She’s already confirmed to return for season three of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, which premieres on Hulu in November 2025. The show will continue to follow her personal life, giving audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the woman who’s about to step into one of television’s most scrutinized roles.
A New Era for The Bachelorette
Taylor Frankie Paul’s journey into the Bachelor Nation spotlight represents more than just another season. It feels like a rebrand—an attempt to modernize the franchise and reconnect with viewers who crave authenticity in a reality-TV landscape that often feels scripted.
Her story isn’t perfect, and that’s exactly why people are watching. Whether she ends the season engaged, heartbroken, or somewhere in between, Taylor’s time as the Bachelorette promises to be one of the most unpredictable and talked-about seasons yet.
One thing is certain: come 2026, all eyes will be on Taylor as she takes her first steps toward finding love, one rose at a time.