Jenn Tran, a contestant on The Bachelor, has been announced as the new star of The Bachelorette.
At 26, Tran stands as the trailblazer, set to become the first Asian-American woman to lead the romantic journey on the US reality TV series.
Reflecting on this historic moment, Tran, who is of Vietnamese American descent, expressed her overwhelming gratitude and sense of honour.
“It’s honestly incredible and I feel so, so grateful and so honoured to be the first Asian Bachelorette in this franchise,” she said during Monday’s finale of The Bachelor.
Growing up, Tran yearned for Asian representation on television, feeling the absence keenly.
“Growing up, I’ve always wanted to see Asian representation on TV,” she said.
“I feel like it was really sparse. Anytime Asians were in the media, it was to fill a supporting character role, to fulfill some sort of stereotype and I always felt boxed in by that because I was like, I don’t see myself on screen. I don’t see myself as a main character.”
Tran’s journey on season 28 of The Bachelor showcased her resilience and authenticity as she competed for Joey Graziadei’s heart. Despite being eliminated during episode seven, her impact resonated with viewers nationwide.
During a poignant one-on-one date, Tran shared her family story, shedding light on her mother’s unwavering strength as a Vietnamese immigrant raising her and her brother single-handedly.
“She is the woman I want to be when I grow up,” Tran said, paying tribute to her mother’s sacrifices and resilience.
Speaking of her evolving relationship with her mother, Tran highlighted the transformative effect of her televised journey.
“Watching me on TV and watching me fall in love, she’s really just seen me grow into my own,” she shared.
Currently living in Miami and pursuing her dream of becoming a physician assistant, Tran’s multifaceted persona adds depth to her upcoming season as The Bachelorette. Fluent in both English and Vietnamese, she embodies cultural richness and modern sophistication.
As anticipation mounts, Tran’s season promises riveting romance and meaningful connections. Stay tuned as The Bachelorette returns later this year.
