Here's What We Know About The New Bachelor
If there's one thing about being a fan or member of "Bachelor Nation," it's that you're in a constant whirlwind of emotions. Between "The Bachelorette," "The Bachelor," and "Bachelor in Paradise" you're in a never-ending revolving door of jumping from one franchise to the next. It's a blessing and a curse. Sometimes, you're still completely caught up in one season when the teaser trailer for the next one gets dropped on you.
As Michelle Young's season 18 of "The Bachelorette" comes to a close with hometown dates already kicking off, Episode 6 saw the dramatic departure of two men (via Vulture). While fans watched Clayton Echard and Young enjoy a romantic date and bond over their love of Thanksgiving, Echard came to the realization that "she could be the one" (via People). Unfortunately, Young wasn't on the same page and sent him home. As he read Young's students lettered and was overcome with tears, Echard shared, "I just want to find love so badly and have a family. And start that chapter in my life. I want it more than anything else. I'll do whatever it takes to get that. Whatever it takes."
Well, his opportunity to do whatever it takes came sooner than fans expected.
Clayton Echard will be the Bachelor for season 26
Before fans even had the chance to properly meet Clayton Echard, rumors began swirling that he would be the next Bachelor (via Us Weekly). ABC has officially confirmed that Echard would in fact be the next Bachelor for the cult favorite show's 26th season with a new trailer (via Twitter). But, who is he really?
As always, the previous season allows fans to get a little insight into who the future suitor really is. Echard played football during college and even almost made it pro, but today he works in orthopedic sales (via Women's Health Magazine). The 28-year-old is very outdoorsy and into fitness, which is evident by his muscular 6 foot 5 inch frame (via Daily Mail). Echard seems genuine and endearing in his quest. "I'm just a Midwest guy from Missouri that just wants to find love," he claims in the trailer.
While fans will have to wait until January 23, 2022 for the new season, they have a whole exciting teaser trailer to get them excited for what, as always, could be the most dramatic season yet. The trailer has everything from a Baywatch re-enactment to countless smooches and ladies clashing — ah, "The Bachelor" truly is the chaotic gift that keeps giving (via YouTube).