The Bachelorette, a staple of ABC's reality TV lineup, will not air a new season this summer, marking a pause in its usual programming. Since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted its regular schedule, the show has struggled to maintain a consistent spot on ABC's annual calendar. This summer hiatus follows the series' return with season 16 in October 2020 after a two-year break in 2006 and 2007.
The Bachelorette has been a consistent summer fixture since its initial premiere in 2003, running for 21 seasons. Traditionally occupying a May-July time slot for 12 consecutive seasons, the show was forced to adapt post-pandemic, premiering its recent seasons in summer months. Season 19 commenced in July 2022, season 20 followed in June 2023, and season 21 returned to July in 2024. However, the upcoming summer will see a break from this pattern.
Despite the break for The Bachelorette, Bachelor in Paradise is set to return for its tenth season in summer 2025. This decision aligns with The Bachelor's precedent of placing its spinoffs on hiatus to accommodate new projects within ABC's crowded schedule. The network continues to explore options to deliver fresh content to its audience.
The most recent season of The Bachelorette featured Jenn Tran, the first Asian American star to lead any Bachelor series. Tran concluded her journey by choosing Devin Strader from a group of 25 contestants. Her season added another layer of diversity and representation to the franchise, resonating with audiences and earning critical acclaim.
In other developments within The Bachelor franchise, Grant Ellis, who was eliminated at the end of week six, has been selected as the next lead of The Bachelor. This announcement continues to stir excitement among fans who eagerly anticipate his journey on the upcoming season.
