Freeform Gives Milquetoast ‘Bachelor’ Couple Their Own Reality Show
UPDATE: Ben Higgins released a statement today, July 22, explaining that he will no longer been running for office. The Freeform series will still air. Higgins’ full statement is below:
“I regret that I must withdraw my candidacy. Despite my best efforts to pursue this opportunity in good faith, I recently received information that has made such a pursuit unworkable. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I will not be able to move forward as a candidate. I find solace in knowing that our intentions and actions have been fair and sincere. I entered into this endeavor wanting to bring positive change to my community, and it is with that same spirit that I will move forward, albeit on a different path.” – Ben Higgins
Ever wondered how The Bachelor’s Ben Higgins and his TV fiancée, Lauren Bushnell, are doing now that the cameras are gone? No? Well, too bad — you’re about to find out anyway. Freeform (formerly ABC Family) announced today that the network has greenlighted Ben and Lauren: Happily Ever After, a docuseries that will, and I quote, “follow the happy couple as they prepare to walk down the aisle and begin their brand-new life together while navigating the real world after the splendor of The Bachelor’s exotic dates and fantasy suites has ended.” (Can one really be said to be navigating the “real world” when one and one’s fiancée are being trailed by a camera crew? Discuss.)
Related: Related: 5 Bachelor Couples Who Need Their Own Reality Show
While Lauren’s press-release-dictated life involves trying to “establish her identity post-Bachelor,” Mr. Higgins’s ambitions are a bit loftier: “Ben will explore getting involved in the political realm.” Hey, if the former host of The Apprentice can land the Republican nomination for president, why shouldn’t the one-time owner of a reality TV harem become an assemblyman or whatever? God bless America!
So, rose lovers, tell me: Are you excited for Ben and Lauren’s new gig, or did you just lose your will to live? Post your thoughts now!
Ben and Lauren: Happily Ever After will premiere on Freeform in October.
