Sam Hartman to Be Named Star of 'The Bachelor' Season 30

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Hartman has been named the next star of ABC's "The Bachelor," the network's reality dating series, which returns for its milestone 30th season in March 2027. The 27-year-old practice squad quarterback is the latest NFL player to take on the lead role, and his casting has drawn wide attention among fans searching for his name.

Hartman speaks about his search for love

Hartman spoke about the role in his first interview on the subject, appearing on ABC's "Good Morning America" on Friday. He said he was excited but also very nervous about the process.

Hartman also joked that he has a tough time holding a conversation with one person, adding that handling 30 contestants would be a challenge.

From North Carolina to the NFL

Hartman is a North Carolina native, though one report describes him as a Charlotte native. He played college football at Wake Forest University, where he set several school records and became one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in Atlantic Coast Conference history.

In 2022, while still at Wake Forest, Hartman was diagnosed with Paget-Schroetter syndrome, a rare condition that causes blood clots in a vein near the collarbone, according to the National Library of Medicine. He returned to the field that season and received the ACC's Brian Piccolo Award, which recognizes the conference's most courageous football player.

Hartman finished his college career with 134 touchdown passes, an ACC record. He played five seasons at Wake Forest before transferring to the University of Notre Dame for his final season in 2023. He signed with the Washington Commanders as an undrafted free agent in 2024.

When the new season begins

Season 30 of "The Bachelor" premieres on Sunday, March 21, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, and episodes stream the following day on Hulu. ABC is owned by the Walt Disney Co., which also owns Disney+ and Hulu.

What we know so far: Hartman has been confirmed as the lead of the 30th season, and the show's premiere date has been set. Further details about the season's format and contestants have not yet been announced.