March 15, 2021

During tonight's finale of The Bachelor, it was announced that The Bachelorette will be returning for a surprise 18th season. While Season 17 was just recently confirmed, for the first time ever the show will air back-to-back seasons - one this summer and another in the fall.

We already know that Chris Harrison will not be hosting Season 17, but there was no mention of his possible return in Season 18. The host recently stated that he would be taking a step back due to his remarks regarding the controversy surrounding current contestant Rachel Kirkconnell.

The next two Bachelorettes were also announced this evening, both of whom were contestants on this season of The Bachelor. Season 17's Bachelorette will be Katie Thurston, who made it to week 6 before being sent home. Season 18 will feature Michelle Young, who made it all the way to tonight's finale.