ABC ORDERS TWO SEASONS OF ‘THE BACHELORETTE’ TO AIR IN 2021: Katie Thurston and Michelle Young Announced as Upcoming Stars of Season 17 and 18
Katie Thurston and Michelle Young have been named the next stars of the 17th and 18th seasons of The Bachelorette, respectively, with both individual cycles set to air in 2021. After appearing in the 25th season of The Bachelor, both women emerged as fan favorites among Bachelor Nation, with viewers all over America rooting for their happily ever afters. Katie’s journey as The Bachelorette is set to premiere summer 2021, and Michelle’s season will air fall 2021.The official announcement was made by The Bachelor: After the Final Rose host Emmanuel Acho during ABC’s emotional special following the finale of Matt James’ season.
Katie Thurston, “The Bachelorette” season 17 premiering summer 2021
Among the season 25 women, Katie emerged as a leading voice, who repeatedly stood up against bullying and negativity in the house, and women all over America applauded her for speaking up for what she believes in. The 30-year-old Washington native became an instant fan favorite for her memorable arrival on night one where she introduced herself to Matt, light-up vibrator in tow. Unapologetically herself, Katie is adventurous, daring and ready for a man with whom she can build a life. A marketing manager with an innate social media savvy and humorous outlook on life, she is a witty storyteller who wants a man that will laugh along with her.
Michelle Young, “The Bachelorette” season 18, premiering fall 2021
After joining the season as a late arrival, Michelle immediately stole The Bachelor’s attention, along with the hearts of millions of Americans who fell in love with her captivating smile and charming sense of humor. A former Division I basketball player from Minnesota, the 28-year-old kindergarten teacher now focuses on preparing her students to be the next generation of community leaders. Michelle has big dreams for the future and says she wants a man by her side that is supportive and driven to make the world a better place. She is looking for the Superman to her Superwoman and is ready to find a love with whom she can start a family of her own.
Chris Harrison will not host the summer season of The Bachelorette
After a tumultuous season of The Bachelor, which brought out deep seated racial issues with the franchise, Chris Harrison will step away from hosting Katie’s summer season of The Bachelorette. ABC has not decided yet how to move forward in the fall.
