ABC’s New Bachelor Matt James Says He’s a Believer
By Tess Farrand, Associate Content Editor
The newly announced star of THE BACHELOR Matt James claims to be a Jesus follower.
James’s Instagram bio states he’s a “believer.” The former Wake Forrest athlete has also quoted scripture on social media.
“Seek first HIS kingdom and HIS righteousness, and ALL things will be given to you as well! Matthew 6:33,” said James on Instagram.
Audiences will have to stay tuned, though, to see if his faith comes out on national TV.
James told GMA that he is looking for a woman who embodies positive attributes that he sees in his mother. He cited “compassion” and “selfless[ness]” in his list.
James was set to be a cast member of the new season of THE BACHELORETTE, but, instead, will headline his own season.
James is originally from North Carolina and after college and trying to play in the NFL, James founded ABC Food Tours and became real estate broker.
ABC Food Tours states its mission on their website:
“The initial goal was to find a creative way to engage kids in underserved communities. We started out taking groups of students to our favorite restaurants in lower Manhattan. As former athletes, we saw the importance of introducing not only physical but mental wellness components into our tours. One year later; we now service all of District 1, include a fitness component in every tour, and have plans of expanding into Brooklyn, surrounding neighborhoods in Manhattan and select cities across the country.”
James’s pal, business partner and BACHELORETTE alum Tyler Cameron said, “Congrats to my brother @mattjames919 on being named the Bachelor. This is all a testament of who you are as a person. Now the world gets to see the person you are and the heart you have. You can change the world. Proud of you and so excited for you.”
Hannah Brown of THE BACHELORETTE said, “This man is as good as it gets y’all, and that’s coming from a previous skeptic (lolz). I am so blessed to now call you friend. You’ve supported and encouraged me in some of the hardest moments lately and I’m so freaking pumped to support and encourage you as you get ready to go on an adventure of a lifetime.”
Sean Lowe, Colton Underwood and Ben Higgins are all past bachelors who have expressed Christianity.