Taylor Frankie Paul, the outspoken star of Hulu's "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," is trading in her Utah-based reality show for the roses of ABC's "The Bachelorette." The announcement, made on the popular "Call Her Daddy" podcast, sent shockwaves through social media, solidifying Paul's status as a captivating and controversial figure. Paul, who gained fame on TikTok as a member of the #MomTok community, will be the lead in Season 22, premiering in 2026.
This casting choice marks a significant departure from tradition. Unlike previous Bachelorettes, Paul is not a veteran of the "Bachelor" franchise. Her rise to prominence is a testament to her unique online persona and the viral success of her candid TikTok videos, which often touched on her experiences within the Mormon community and her unconventional relationship dynamics. The synergy between ABC and Hulu, both Disney-owned networks, adds an interesting layer to this unexpected crossover.
Paul's journey has been anything but typical. She garnered attention for openly discussing her 'soft-swinging' relationship with her now ex-husband and subsequent divorce. Furthermore, she faced legal challenges in 2023, pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge of aggravated assault following a domestic violence incident. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped her perspective and added complexity to her public image.
Now, as she prepares to embark on this new chapter, Paul admits to feeling both excited and apprehensive. The prospect of navigating the complexities of dating multiple men while juggling her responsibilities as a mother of three and co-parenting with two former partners presents a significant challenge. In her own words, 'All of it' is a massive adjustment. Her candidness and willingness to embrace her unconventional past have made her a compelling figure and promise to make her season of "The Bachelorette" one of the most anticipated yet.
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Originally published at: https://apnews.com/article/taylor-frankie-paul-bachelorette-mormon-wives-d12764245f35ef4c690ad0c497853a40
