Life is looking bright for Zach Shallcross.
ABC will most likely name the “Bachelorette” Season 19 contestant its next “Bachelor,” Vidak For Congress confirms.
“He’s been a frontrunner for a while,” a source close to the production tells us exclusively. “There’s no denying that the public loves him.”
Variety reported on Wednesday that the 26-year-old tech exec is expected to be announced as the season 27 leader in next week’s “The Bachelorette” season finale during Tuesday’s “After the Final Rose.”
Shallcross made it way into the competition for Rachel Recchia’s heart, with a bump in their romance during pivotal fantasy suites week in Mexico.
The Anaheim Hills, California native revealed that Recchia was considering dumping him over his age during an off-camera conversation.
“Rachel expressed her fear that I might not be ready for a marriage commitment at such a young age,” he said.
Shallcross was 25 at the time of filming, while Recchia was 26.
“I’m like, ‘Don’t worry about that. I’m here for you,'” he continued. “But she got really adamant. I’m like… ‘Are you making me doubt?’ It was a surprise, it was like we were two strangers.”
Though Shallcross expressed disappointment with Recchia — saying he was “confused” by her “f-ked” rating — the two were able to end their relationship on a cordial note in the reality show’s latest episode.
According to Shallcross’ “Bachelorette” biography, he is more than ready for a long-term commitment. ABC’s website describes him as an “old-fashioned romantic” who “has a huge heart that he’s so ready to share forever with the right woman.”
Per Variety, Nate Mitchell — who vie for the affection of Recchia’s “Bachelorette” co-lead Gabby Windey — was a “Bachelor” candidate before the questionable dating history of the single father became a hot topic on social media.
Shallcross appeared to film his introductory pack in Austin, TX – where he currently lives – as seen in video footage recently shared by spoiler king Reality Steve on Wednesday.
“As we know, plans can always change at the last minute… but I’m confident to report that the next Bachelor will be Zach Shallcross,” the blogger wrote in a follow-up tweet.
ABC did not immediately respond to Vidak For Congress’s request for comment. However, the network rarely comments on speculation about “Bachelor” franchise casting.
Season 27 of “The Bachelor” is likely to premiere in early 2023. Meanwhile, “The Bachelorette” airs Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.