“From TikTok Scandal to Rose Ceremonies: ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Star Taylor Frankie Paul Shocks Fans as the Next Bachelorette

“From TikTok Scandal to Rose Ceremonies: ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Star Taylor Frankie Paul Shocks Fans as the Next Bachelorette

Taylor Frankie Paul, the outspoken Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star and viral “MomTok” influencer, is officially stepping into the spotlight as the next Bachelorette—and the announcement has sent shockwaves through Bachelor Nation.

The 31-year-old single mom of three revealed the news during her appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast, confirming she will lead Season 22 of The Bachelorette, set to premiere in 2026.

“I honestly thought it was a joke when the producers first reached out,” Paul admitted. “But the more I thought about it, the more I realized I was ready—for love, for growth, and for a fresh start.”

Her casting marks a historic moment for the long-running ABC reality franchise. For the first time ever, the lead has been chosen from outside the Bachelor/Paradise universe, signaling a bold new direction for the series. Paul rose to fame on TikTok, where she became one of the most recognizable figures in the “MomTok” community before starring in Hulu’s hit docuseries The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

But with fame came controversy. Paul made headlines in 2022 after openly discussing “soft-swinging” dynamics in her Utah friend group, sparking tabloid frenzy and making her a polarizing figure online. Since then, she has been candid about her divorce, parenting journey, and path to rebuilding her life—all of which producers say made her “an authentic, complex, and fearless choice” for the role.

Bachelor Nation fans are divided but intrigued. Some see her casting as a risky stunt, while others applaud ABC for finally breaking the mold and bringing in a fresh face with a real-world backstory.

In the meantime, Paul isn’t leaving Hulu behind—her series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives returns for a third season in November 2025, ensuring that audiences will see both sides of her life: reality star and hopeful romantic.

Season 22 of The Bachelorette is expected to begin filming early next year, with a release slated for summer 2026. Until then, all eyes will be on Taylor Frankie Paul as she trades TikToks and confessionals for roses and romantic drama.