From Mormon Wives to Reality TV Queen: Taylor Frankie Paul's Bold Move to The Bachelorette

 

Reality TV has a new star, and her name is Taylor Frankie Paul. The 31-year-old Utah native, known for her viral TikTok presence and as a central figure in Hulu's The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, has been announced as the lead for Season 22 of The Bachelorette, set to premiere in 2026. 

A TikTok Star's Rise to Reality TV Fame

Before the cameras rolled for The Bachelorette, Taylor was already a household name in the digital realm. As the creator of #MomTok, she amassed a following of over 5 million on TikTok by sharing candid moments of motherhood, lifestyle tips, and personal anecdotes. Her content resonated with many, offering a raw and authentic glimpse into the challenges and joys of parenting.

However, it was a 2022 video where Taylor revealed her involvement in a "soft swinging" lifestyle that truly catapulted her into the public eye. This revelation led to significant personal and professional repercussions, including a divorce and widespread media attention. Despite the controversies, Taylor's openness about her experiences garnered her a dedicated fanbase and eventually led to her casting in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

Behind the Scenes of 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives'

Premiering in September 2024, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives delves into the lives of eight Mormon mothers navigating the complexities of faith, family, and modern relationships. The series offers an unfiltered look at the challenges these women face, from balancing religious expectations with personal desires to dealing with public scrutiny. Taylor's journey, marked by her viral confession and subsequent life changes, became a central narrative of the show.

The series quickly became Hulu's most-watched unscripted premiere of 2024, with its second season released in May 2025. The show's candid portrayal of Mormon women confronting societal expectations resonated with viewers, leading to critical acclaim and a nomination for Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program at the 2025 Emmys. 

From Reality TV to 'The Bachelorette'

Taylor's transition from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to The Bachelorette marks a significant shift in her reality TV journey. While the former provided a platform to explore her personal life and challenges, the latter offers her the opportunity to search for love in a more traditional dating format.

The announcement of Taylor as the new Bachelorette was made on the Call Her Daddy podcast, where she expressed both excitement and apprehension about the upcoming season. She acknowledged the logistical challenges of being a single mother while filming but emphasized her readiness to embrace the experience. 

This casting decision is notable as it's the first time a lead has been chosen from outside the Bachelor franchise. ABC's move reflects a desire to refresh the series and tap into the growing trend of social media influencers transitioning into traditional media roles. 

What to Expect from Season 22

As the premiere of Season 22 approaches, fans can anticipate a season filled with drama, romance, and personal growth. Taylor's journey will undoubtedly be influenced by her past experiences, including her time on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and her viral TikTok moments. Viewers can expect to see a more nuanced and mature side of Taylor as she navigates the complexities of finding love on national television.

The season is expected to feature a diverse group of contestants, each bringing their unique backgrounds and personalities to the competition. As with previous seasons, fans can look forward to the traditional elements of The Bachelorette, including group dates, one-on-one time with the lead, and the inevitable drama that ensues.

The Impact of Taylor's Journey

Taylor's rise from a viral TikTok star to the lead of The Bachelorette underscores the evolving landscape of reality television. Her journey reflects a broader trend of social media influencers transitioning into traditional media roles, blurring the lines between digital and mainstream entertainment.

Moreover, Taylor's openness about her personal life, including her involvement in the "soft swinging" lifestyle and subsequent challenges, has sparked important conversations about faith, relationships, and personal growth. Her story resonates with many who see parts of their own experiences reflected in her journey.

Taylor Frankie Paul's transition from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to The Bachelorette represents a significant evolution in her reality TV career. Her journey offers a compelling narrative of personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of love. As Season 22 approaches, fans eagerly await to see how Taylor's story unfolds on the national stage.

For those interested in catching up on Taylor's previous work, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is available for streaming on Hulu. The series provides an in-depth look at her life and the experiences that have shaped her journey.