28-year-old Michelle Young is only the third black woman to embark on her journey to happily-ever-after as the lead of Season 18 of The Bachelorette. Bachelor franchise fans are waiting eagerly for Tuesday’s season premiere as we learned much of Michelle’s story during her time as a frontrunner on Bachelor Matt James’ season.
Not only does she have a beautiful smile, but Michelle Young has an incredibly charming personality that she brings with her everyday to work as an elementary school teacher and now as the new bachelorette. Prior to her career in education, Michelle led her community in a more athletic way as a Division I basketball player. She is a confident, athletic, and loving woman looking for a man who will treat her as his equal, share her passion for leadership, and who is ready to start a family.
The Minnesota native understands the pressure she’s under as a black lead in the Bachelor franchise as she is the daughter of a white mother and black father. Following the Rachael Kirkconnell controversy, Young made comments regarding the perpetuation of racism from both Kirkconnell and former franchise host, Chris Harrison.
“That was a prime example of not understanding the history behind it,” she said. “All of these issues that everyone’s talking around and addressing and apologizing and making statements, but not actually changing anything- there is a point where you’re just so exhausted.”
It’s safe to say that racism and drama are two things she won’t be tolerating during her season.
Young has a promising group of men vying for her heart in this season and it is sure to be an interesting watch as she continues her journey to love. Watch the trailer for Michelle’s season below and be sure to tune in to ABC Tuesday October 19 at 8 P.M.