‘Suddenly Amish’: Meet the Cast of the New TLC Show
Six people will leave the modern world behind and embrace a simpler kind of life in TLC’s new reality series Suddenly Amish.
The show – which premieres January 13 – follows these outsiders as they step into a traditional Amish community in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. They’re all seeking a profound change, which they believe they might find by embracing an Amish culture “defined by faith, discipline, simplicity, and community.”
It’s rare for the Amish to welcome new members. But to combat a shrinking population, a progressive group of hosts will open their doors to these strangers and guide them through the transition to a new way of life.
“With Suddenly Amish, we’re expanding on TLC’s legacy of immersive storytelling seen in shows like Breaking Amish and Return to Amish. This series offers a rare, intimate look at what happens when outsiders step into a deeply traditional community,” said Alon Orstein, senior SVP of Production and Development, TLC. “We’re proud to share a journey that’s emotional, surprising, and undeniably human.”
Six outsiders make a major change in ‘Suddenly Amish’
The outsiders who’ve decided to try Amish life on for size come from all walks of life.
Kendra is a 33-year-old former dancer and content creator from California who is seeking to shed body image issues and find a more purposeful path.
Judah, 22, a bougie young rapper from Missouri with a taste for luxury, craves real belonging beneath all the swagger. But will this germaphobe be able to live in a less-than-spotless world of barns and mud?
“This is a huge culture shock for me,” he admits in the trailer.
Matt is a newly divorced dad from Texas. This 34-year-old has a rugged yet vulnerable side and is looking for a spiritual reset and to rebuild his life on stronger values.
Aaron, 40, is a pastor’s son who is dedicated to his principles and drawn to the devotion of Amish life. But has a hearing disability that requires modern technology to manage.
Esmerelda, 25, is from Texas and craves the stable family life she never had growing up. But she has so deeply intertwined her identity with glamour that she doesn’t know how to separate them.
Billie Jo, 44, is a New Yorker and a lifelong aficionado of Amish culture who already dresses in traditional clothing, For her, the chance to officially join the Amish is a dream come true.
Amish hosts helps outsiders adjust to a new life
Guiding this diverse group of potential converts are a group of Amish hosts.
Bishop Vernon is a strict and respected leader who is determined to grow his community while balancing tradition with his bold and unorthodox approach.
“Our population is shrinking,” he explains in the Suddenly Amish teaser. “So I will be inviting people in from the outside in the hopes of repopulating the church.”
Allen and Sarah are parents to four adopted children. They bring warmth and patience as seasoned mentors.
James is a self-proclaimed rebel who wants to earn the respect of his community after being shunned. Along the way, he wrestles with temptation, tradition, and redemption.
Emma, James’ cousin who recently returned to Amish life, offers him support while navigating her own complex relationships and boundaries.
Suddenly Amish premieres Tuesday, January 13 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on TLC.
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