‘The Bachelorette’ Is Black Again … Meet Michelle Young

ABC is keeping the diversity train going, naming Michelle Young one of the next stars of “The Bachelorette.” During Monday’s “After the Final Rose” special, it was revealed that Young and Katie Thurston have been chosen as the new “The Bachelorette” for seasons 17 and 18.

The news comes after a controversial “The Bachelor” season involving racially insensitive photos of contestant Rachel Kirkconnell and inappropriate comments defending her by show host Chris Harrison.

ABC announced just days ago that former “Bachelorettes” Kaitlyn Bristowe and Tayshia Adams will take over upcoming hosting duties after Harrison took a leave for admitting he spoke “in a manner that perpetuates racism.”

Young made it all the way to the finale in the 2021 competition for Matt James ( the first Black Bachelor) but ultimately was left heartbroken. James instead gave the rose to Kirkconnell but later cut things off after photos of her at a plantation-themed party surfaced online.

Young will be the third black “The Bachelorette” following Rachel Lindsey and Tayshia Adams. She told “After The Rose” host Emmanuel Acho, who stepped in to replace Harrison, that she’s looking for love and ready to start a family.

Fans will see if that happens during Season 18 airing this fall. In the meantime here’s what we know so far.

She’s From Minnesota

Young was born in St. Louis Park, Minnesota to LaVonne and Ephraim Young. She grew up there with her two siblings, Angela and Alex.

 

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She’s A School Teacher

Young works as an elementary school teacher when she’s not on reality TV. According to her ABC bio, the “Bachelor” contestant “focuses on preparing her students to be the next generation of community leaders.”

She Plays Basketball

Young was a college athlete (like James, who played football for Wake Forest University) before starting her career as a teacher. She played Division 1 basketball at Bradley University.