Taylor Frankie Paul of ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ to Lead Season 22

Season 22 of “The Bachelorette” is shaking things up with a new lead. Instead of a past “Bachelor” contestant, the upcoming season will be fronted by Taylor Frankie Paul, known for her role on the Hulu hit series “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.” The announcement was made on Alex Cooper’s “Call Her Daddy” podcast, marking the first time ABC has chosen a non-traditional platform for such a reveal.

Paul, 31, is a single mother of three who brings a refreshing blend of humor, resilience, and fearless openness to her portrayal on screen. With a substantial following on TikTok, Paul’s unfiltered candor in sharing the highs and lows of her life has resonated with audiences, inspiring them to embrace life’s chaos and own their personal narratives.

In an interview with Variety after the debut of Season 2 of “Mormon Wives,” Paul expressed her willingness to take on the role of leading “The Bachelorette” as long as it didn’t conflict with her commitment to the Hulu series. She also admitted to feeling apprehensive about the prospect of dating in the public eye, citing concerns about people’s intentions and the complexities of balancing her role as a mother with a potential new relationship.

Despite her initial doubts, Paul ultimately accepted the offer to become the next Bachelorette, emphasizing the importance of believing in oneself and pursuing one’s desires. The upcoming season of “The Bachelorette” is scheduled to premiere in 2026, following the return of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” for its third season on Nov. 13.

Initially believed to be the lead for Season 30 of “The Bachelor,” Paul’s selection marks a departure from the traditional scheduling of ABC’s dating franchise. Recent years have seen a shift in the airing order of “The Bachelorette,” “Bachelor in Paradise,” and “The Bachelor,” with new spin-offs like “The Golden Bachelorette” entering the mix.

Produced by Warner Horizon Unscripted Television, a division of Warner Bros. Television Group, “The Bachelorette” continues to captivate audiences with its blend of romance, drama, and unexpected twists. Executive produced by Scott Teti, the show promises to deliver another season filled with love, heartbreak, and the quest for happily ever after.