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Six individuals are set to leave behind the hustle and bustle of modern life to experience a simpler existence in the new TLC reality series, Suddenly Amish.
Debuting on January 13, the show chronicles the journey of these participants as they immerse themselves in a traditional Amish community located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Driven by a desire for profound transformation, they are hopeful that embracing the Amish way—centered on faith, discipline, simplicity, and community—will provide them with the change they seek.
While it is uncommon for the Amish to accept newcomers, a progressive group within the community is opening its doors to these outsiders. This initiative aims to address the community’s declining population, offering guidance as these newcomers adjust to an entirely different lifestyle.
“Suddenly Amish builds on TLC’s tradition of immersive storytelling, akin to our other series like Breaking Amish and Return to Amish,” stated Alon Orstein, Senior Vice President of Production and Development at TLC. “This series provides a unique, intimate perspective on what occurs when outsiders integrate into a deeply traditional setting. We are excited to present a journey that is emotional, surprising, and profoundly human.”
The show’s participants, each seeking to experience Amish life, come from diverse backgrounds, representing a wide spectrum of life experiences.
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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