Ben Higgins, Kaitlyn Bristowe's second runner-up, has been confirmed as the next "Bachelor" for season 20 of ABC's hit reality show after much speculation. The official announcement was made during Monday night's episode of "After Paradise," the "Bachelor in Paradise" after-show.
"It's incredible. I think people like me don't get opportunities like this," Higgins told host Chris Harrison, according to ABC News. "I never would've thought that this opportunity would be something I could have but I'm excited."
Higgins, a 26-year-old software salesman from Denver, had become a favorite among fans during "The Bachelorette," which aired earlier this year. Higgins made it to the second-to-last round before he was sent packing by Bristowe.
Towards the end of the show, at the "Men Tell All" taping, Higgins admitted that he would want to become the next "Bachelor," if ABC offered gave him the chance, according to Variety.
"I think when that opportunity, if it happens, presents itself, it's something you have to go at. It's a great opportunity," he said. "I think being in this experience now has taught me...it's not ideal, but it can work."
At the same event, Bristowe mentioned that Higgins would be her top choice for the next "Bachelor." "I think it's Ben H. I think he's just God's gift to women. Not sure why I didn't see that, but, I mean, men, women, their dogs, they all love Ben H," she said.
"The Bachelor" Season 20 will premiere in January 2016.
