The Bachelorette made history on Monday evening (March 25) when the franchise announced the first-ever Asian American lead, Jenn Tran. 

Members of Bachelor Nation were left speechless, when ABC announced the new leading lady. Many viewers theorized that Maria Georgas would step in after she became a fan-favorite on Season 28 of The Bachelor.  

The announcement came during the live After the Final Rose special, hosted by Jesse Palmer and former Bachelorette Charity Lawson. Tran is a 26-year-old physician assistant student from Miami, Florida. 

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The reality star took the stage in a stunning purple dress with a plunging neckline. Tran expressed her overwhelming gratitude when fans settled down after their explosive hoots and hollers. She described the casting as "surreal." 

"I feel so so grateful and so honored to be the first Asian bachelorette in this franchise," she said before emphasizing the significance of the opportunity. "Growing up, I've always wanted to see Asian representation on TV. And I feel like it was really sparse. Any time Asians were in the media, it was to fill a supporting character role, to fulfill some sort of stereotype, and I felt really boxed in by that because I was like, 'I don't see myself on screen. I don't see myself as a main character." 

She continued, "And now to be here today standing in this position being like, 'I am going to lead my own love story. I am going to be the main character to my story,' I just can't help but think about how many people I'm inspiring and how many lives I'm changing." 

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Trann rose to prominence during her stint on Joey's season of The Bachelor. Her memorable entrance, arriving in a go-kart on premiere night, and her adventurous spirit, showcased during a surfing date  captured viewers' attention. Even her unique poutine recipe during a group date in Montreal garnered attention, despite ultimately not leading to a rose.

At the Women Tell All reunion, Trannreflected on her journey and the impact it had on her relationship with her mother. She shared how being on The Bachelor helped her mother see her in a new light, fostering a deeper connection between them. Tran also took the opportunity to honor her mother's strength and resilience as an immigrant from Vietnam.

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Bachelor Nation is torn, and many express disappointment that Georgas wasn't chosen. Some fans feel robbed and frustrated, accusing producers of not listening to their desires. Others speculate that Georgas might have been offered the role before Tran, but she declined due to her struggles while on the show.

Despite the divide, Georgas is thrilled about Tran's opportunity, expressing her happiness and unwavering support on social media. Georgas' endorsement of Tran's representation and encouragement for her to seize the moment resonates positively, reflecting the complex emotions within Bachelor Nation.

"When I tell you how happy I am for her, you best believe it. We were there for each other, always," said Georgas. So I'll be cheering her on every step of the way. She deserves this moment, and it's HERS. The representation alone is doing so many little girls proud who can look up and see a beautiful Asian woman bless our screens. You go, Jenn!!! Go get your man!!!" 

The forthcoming season of The Bachelorette is slated to premiere in July. 

Photo Credit: @jenntranx on Instagram.