March 15, 2021 • bachelor insider
Katie Thurston & Michelle Young Will Be the Next Bachelorettes!
Bachelor Nation, we have big news: The next Bachelorettes will be none other than “Bachelor” Season 25 standouts Katie Thurston and Michelle Young!
The announcement was made at the end of Monday night’s shocking “After the Final Rose” special, hosted by Emmanuel Acho.
Katie, 30, and Michelle, 28, have been named the stars of the 17th and 18th seasons of the series, respectively, with both individual cycles set to air in 2021.
“I would be lying if I didn’t say when they first told me, I thought we were going to be the Bachelorette at the same time. And, so, I was a little nervous,” Michelle told Emmanuel on “AFR.”
“But once I found out it was two different seasons, I was here for it,” the gorgeous schoolteacher from Minnestota continued. “I’m excited that I’m going to have somebody to bond over with this and share notes as we go.”
Meanwhile, Katie — who will make her “Bachelorette” debut this summer before Michelle’s season airs in the fall — expressed her enthusiasm at finding The One after vying for Matt James’ final rose.
“I’m ready to find love and not just the temporary kind. I’m talking forever, my husband,” said the stunning marketing manager and TikTok creator. “I’m in a place in my life where I feel like I’m the best version of me. Honestly, I’ve seen it work before. Why can’t it work for me?”
Michelle — who finished her “Bachelor” journey as Matt’s runner-up — said that she is also looking forward to finally finding her happily ever after.
“I am ready. And like Katie said, I really do think that this process works. You can set down all these outside distractions and really dive in,” she said. “I think you can learn a lot about somebody. I’m just excited. I’m ready to get started.”
Bachelor Nation fell in love with Katie after she emerged as a fierce supporter of her fellow contestants, repeatedly standing up to bullying and negativity in the house. Equally known for her protective nature as she is for her infectious sense of humor, the outspoken beauty became an instant fan favorite for her memorable limo entrance, during which she introduced herself — and her sparkly purple vibrator — to Matt.
As for Michelle, she came into the competition for Matt’s heart as a late arrival. She immediately captured the Bachelor’s attention — along with the hearts of millions of Americans — with her captivating smile, unmistakable charm, and sharp wit. Incredibly passionate about shaping the next generation of community leaders, Michelle left her career as a Division I basketball player to teach kindergarten. With big dreams for her future, Michelle hopes her Bachelorette love story ends with a man by her side who is just as driven to make the world a better place.
Congrats, Katie and Michelle!