NFL viewers are roasting Washington Commanders QB Sam Hartman after ABC named him the network’s next star of “The Bachelor.” The backup quarterback hopes to find that special someone out of a group of 30 women when the show returns on March 21, 2027. Amid mixed reactions, Hartman opened up about the new opportunity, saying he’s very “nervous” but excited about what could come.
Hartman was named the next leading man of the long-running reality show during an appearance on “Good Morning America.”
The QB, who showed up with a big smile and slicked-back hair just hours after his team defeated the New York Giants during “Thursday Night Football,” said he was excited about the chance to find love, but it makes him a little more “nervous” than his day job.
“I have a tough time holding a conversation with one girl; 30 is gonna be pretty tough,” he said before revealing that his NFL teammates have been supportive on his new journey. While they shared their advice, Hartman said he “probably” wouldn’t listen.
NFL Viewers Roast Sam Hartman After Being Named The Next Bachelor: ‘Imagine Sucking’
Hartman’s jump to “The Bachelor” amid the current NFL season has already sparked plenty of backlash from football fans online. One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote, “Imagine sucking so bad at being the backup QB you have to go on a reality TV show for money.”
Another viewer slammed ABC for another stunt casting decision, calling them “desperate and pathetic.” They added, “They just want views. None of the relationships work. This crap needs to end, and I’d cut Sam from my team today if I saw this bulls–t.”
What Led Sam Hartman To Sign Up For ‘The Bachelor’ After Two Years In The NFL?
Finding love on reality television will be a change of pace for the NFL player; however, he said during his November 13 reveal that with great risk comes great reward.
“I know one thing: When people are saying ‘I do,’ they don’t ask you where you met, they just ask you if you want to do it forever. And I don’t see any problem with that,” he said, revealing that his family is also very supportive.
“They’re excited. My mom and I have a really cool relationship, and my pops is supportive,” he shared, adding that they primarily want the athlete to “be myself and enjoy the experience” along with trusting his instincts.
What Is Hartman Looking For As He Searches For Love On The Next Season Of ‘The Bachelor’?
Fans of “The Bachelor” will have to wait until the March 21 premiere to meet the women, but Hartman opened up more about the season on “GMA” and shared what he’s looking for in a future partner.
“Competitiveness in somebody I want to chase,” he said, explaining that he wants to meet someone who has desires that make him want to keep coming back.
The athlete also said he’s looking for a selfless person, adding that seeing people close to him care for others means a lot. “Seeing them do so much for other people, I think that’s a huge part,” he said.
Hartman’s Season Of ‘The Bachelor’ Comes After ABC Pulled Taylor Frankie Paul’s Season Of ‘The Bachelorette’
Hartman’s season of “The Bachelor” comes several months after ABC pulled Taylor Frankie Paul’s season of “The Bachelorette.”
After news of Paul’s alleged domestic violence altercation with Mortensen, ABC released the following statement: “In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of ‘The Bachelorette’ at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family.”
The “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star broke her silence shortly after ABC pulled her season, calling “the timing … hard.”
“It’s just heavy. It’s a heavy time, and it’s unfortunate,” she said. “I’m struggling for sure, but also at the same time I feel like if I don’t show up, then I’m just giving these opportunities away and not enjoying what we’ve worked on and something super exciting that’s coming. I just feel like it was the right thing to do… show up even though it’s hard.”
