Rachel Lindsay Praises ‘Bachelorette’ Casting Choice in Welcoming Taylor Frankie Paul (Exclusive)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Rachel-Lindsay-Taylor-Frankie-Paul-092825-670b65452d2741868278edf6f1d44ed5.jpg)
Former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay recently shared her exclusive thoughts with PEOPLE, expressing her approval of ABC’s decision to cast Taylor Frankie Paul as the new lead for the show. The network announced the selection of Taylor Frankie Paul, known for her role in Hulu’s ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ since 2024, as the upcoming Bachelorette on September 10. Lindsay, who starred in the 13th season of The Bachelorette, conveyed her joy over the news and addressed the surprise among many dedicated fans of the franchise regarding Paul’s casting.
In an interview at the LadyWorld Festival in Miramar Beach, Fla., Lindsay acknowledged the significance of this casting choice. She stated that she has been advocating for change within the show, emphasizing the need to move away from dated narratives. Lindsay believes that the inclusion of Taylor Frankie Paul as the lead symbolizes the show’s attempt to transition into a more contemporary era. She expressed her excitement for the future of the series, seeing it as a positive evolution and a step in the right direction.
Rachel Lindsay’s journey with The Bachelorette franchise has been marked by various challenges, including personal struggles. After getting engaged to Bryan Abasolo on the show and subsequently marrying him in August 2019, the couple faced relationship troubles that led to their divorce in December 2023. Lindsay’s time with the franchise also intersected with controversies surrounding racial insensitivity, notably in 2021 when former host Chris Harrison defended a contestant’s problematic past actions, prompting backlash and his eventual departure from the show.
Despite the obstacles she encountered during her time with The Bachelorette, Lindsay remains passionate about the show and its potential for positive change. Reflecting on her experiences, Lindsay emphasised that her critiques stem from a place of love and a desire to see the show evolve. At the LadyWorld Festival, she highlighted the importance of embracing new narratives and praised Taylor Frankie Paul for her authenticity in sharing her life experiences, which she believes will bring a fresh perspective to the series.
Attending LadyGang’s LadyWorld Festival in Destin, Fla., Lindsay reiterated her support for the show’s decision to cast Paul and emphasized the importance of embracing honesty and authenticity in storytelling. As the franchise continues to navigate challenges and adapt to changing cultural landscapes, Lindsay remains hopeful for its future and the impact that diverse voices like Paul’s can have on reshaping its narrative.
In conclusion, Rachel Lindsay’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the evolving landscape of reality television and the potential for transformative storytelling within established franchises like The Bachelorette. As the show prepares to embark on a new chapter with Taylor Frankie Paul at the helm, Lindsay’s endorsement signals a sense of optimism and anticipation for the positive changes that lie ahead.