Quick Read
- Taylor Frankie Paul, star of Hulu’s ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,’ will lead Season 22 of ‘The Bachelorette.’
- Paul is the first lead in franchise history to be selected from outside Bachelor Nation.
- She is a single mother of three and a prominent TikTok influencer.
- The new season of ‘The Bachelorette’ will air in 2026.
- Paul is also set to return for Season 3 of ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ on Hulu in November 2025.
Taylor Frankie Paul, the 31-year-old star of Hulu’s Emmy-nominated series “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and a prominent figure on TikTok’s #MomTok, has been announced as the lead for Season 22 of “The Bachelorette.” The announcement, made during an episode of Alex Cooper’s popular podcast “Call Her Daddy,” signals a significant departure for the reality franchise, which traditionally selects leads from within its own alumni.
A New Face for Bachelor Nation
Paul’s selection as the next Bachelorette is a groundbreaking moment for the franchise. Historically, the lead roles have been filled by contestants from previous seasons of “The Bachelor.” Paul, however, brings a fresh perspective as an outsider to the Bachelor Nation universe. Her journey to this role is unconventional, rooted in her viral rise to fame through TikTok, where she captivated audiences with her candid and comedic storytelling about life as a single mother of three. Her openness about her personal life, including her experiences with “soft-swinging” in her Utah community, was a central storyline in “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.”
Paul’s candid nature and resilience have made her a relatable figure for many. Her ability to share both the highs and lows of her life with unfiltered honesty has resonated with millions, making her a natural fit for a show that thrives on emotional authenticity. ABC’s press release highlighted her as someone who inspires others to embrace life’s chaos and own their stories, a sentiment echoed by her massive TikTok following.
From Scandal to Stardom
Paul’s journey to the spotlight has not been without controversy. In 2022, she revealed during a TikTok livestream that she and her then-husband, Tate Paul, had engaged in “soft-swinging,” a revelation that ultimately led to their divorce. This personal upheaval became the foundation for her rise to fame, as it was explored in depth in the first season of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.” The show, which delves into the lives of Utah’s #MomTok community, has been a critical and commercial success, earning an Emmy nomination and a dedicated fan base.
Despite the challenges, Paul has emerged stronger, navigating the complexities of co-parenting her three children—Indy, Ocean, and Ever—with her two ex-partners, Tate Paul and Dakota Mortensen. Her ability to turn personal struggles into teachable moments has endeared her to fans and positioned her as a unique and compelling choice for “The Bachelorette.”
Balancing Motherhood and Reality TV
Taking on the role of the Bachelorette as a single mother of three presents unique challenges, a fact that Paul has openly acknowledged. During her conversation with Alex Cooper, she expressed concerns about balancing her responsibilities at home with the demands of filming. “My home base is here. Can I travel that long? Can I be gone that long?” she wondered aloud. Ultimately, she decided to embrace the opportunity, viewing it as a chance to explore new possibilities and find love on her own terms.
Paul’s casting marks another milestone for the franchise, as she becomes only the second single mother to lead “The Bachelorette,” following Emily Maynard in 2012. Her decision to participate reflects her commitment to challenging societal norms and redefining what it means to seek love and connection as a single parent. She has also set clear expectations for her potential suitors, emphasizing the importance of shared values and a willingness to relocate to Utah to be with her family.
What to Expect in Season 22
As the first outsider to lead the franchise, Paul brings a fresh energy and perspective to “The Bachelorette.” She has admitted to being unfamiliar with some of the show’s traditions but is excited to make the experience her own. “I don’t have notes on how this works,” she told Cooper, adding that she has practiced rose ceremonies with friends to prepare for the role.
Fans can expect a season filled with heartfelt moments and authentic storytelling as Paul navigates the complexities of dating multiple people simultaneously. Her co-stars from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” have expressed their support, though Paul humorously noted that she wouldn’t be surprised if side group chats discussed her new role in less flattering terms. Regardless, she remains focused on the journey ahead, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with being the Bachelorette.
The new season of “The Bachelorette” is set to premiere in 2026, while Season 3 of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” will debut on Hulu on November 13, 2025. As Paul prepares to step into the spotlight once again, fans are eager to see how her unique story will unfold in the context of one of television’s most beloved reality franchises.
Taylor Frankie Paul’s journey from TikTok sensation to reality TV star underscores the evolving nature of modern fame. Her candid approach to life, combined with her resilience in the face of adversity, makes her a compelling and relatable figure. As she embarks on this new chapter, she has the potential to redefine what it means to be a leading lady in the world of reality television.