Life is looking rosy for Zach Shallcross.
ABC is most likely naming the “Bachelorette” Season 19 contestant its next “Bachelor,” Page Six can confirm.
“He’s been a frontrunner for a while,” a source close to production tells us exclusively. “There’s no denying that the audience loves him.”
Variety reported Wednesday that the 26-year-old tech exec is expected to be announced as the Season 27 lead on next week’s season finale of “The Bachelorette,” during “After the Final Rose” on Tuesday.
Shallcross made it far into the competition for Rachel Recchia’s heart, through they hit a bump in their romance during the pivotal fantasy suites week in Mexico.
The Anaheim Hills, Calif., native revealed that Recchia considered dumping him over his age during a conversation that occurred off-camera.
“Rachel brought up her fear that maybe I’m not ready for a commitment of marriage at this early of an 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 second-guess?’ It was a surprise. It was like we were two strangers.”
Though Shallcross expressed disappointment in Recchia — saying he was “gut-punched” by her “f–ked” assessment — the two were able to end their relationship in a cordial manner on the reality show’s latest installment.
According to Shallcross’ “Bachelorette” bio, 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 is so ready to share forever with the right woman.”
Per Variety, Nate Mitchell — who vied for the affections of Recchia’s “Bachelorette” co-lead Gabby Windey — was a “Bachelor” contender before the single father’s questionable dating history became a hot topic on social media.
Shallcross appeared to film his intro package 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 last minute…but I feel confident in reporting that the next Bachelor is going to be Zach Shallcross,” the blogger wrote in a follow-up tweet.
ABC did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment. However, the network seldom comments on “Bachelor” franchise casting speculation.
“The Bachelor” Season 27 will likely premiere in early 2023. Meanwhile, “The Bachelorette” airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
