TLC’s all-new series is putting the spotlight back on the Amish community once again.
Us Weekly can exclusively reveal that Suddenly Amish is coming to the network in early 2026. Set in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the show will invite six non-Amish individuals on a rare journey as they leave behind their modern “English” lifestyle and step into a deeply traditional Amish community.
“In the Amish world, we abstain from electricity,” the hosts share in the official trailer released on Thursday, December 11. “We abstain from cars. We don’t wear makeup or jewelry. We work the fields. We go to church.”
According to strict and respected leader Bishop Vernon, he’s inviting outsiders to experience the Amish life in hopes of expanding the community.
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“Our youth are leaving in record numbers,” he shares. “Our population is shrinking, so I will be inviting people from the outside in hopes of repopulating the church.”
Participants range from former dancer and content creator Kendra to young bougie rapper Judah. Each individual has their own unique story to tell — and a unique reaction to the Amish community.
“It feels like jail,” Kendra says before breaking down in tears during one scene. “Pray for me.”
Others, like Aaron, a pastor’s son, appear ready to take on the unique experience. As he explains, “My life completely changes after today.”
“Seeking a profound change from their present way of modern life, each participant contemplates the possibility of converting into Amish society,” TLC explained in a press release, “as they navigate drastically different routines and a culture defined by faith, discipline, simplicity and community.”
So why did some participants agree to TLC’s new reality show? At first glance, every individual has their own mission and goal they hope to achieve as a result of the significant lifestyle change.
“I want to be Amish because I love that lifestyle,” Texas resident Esmeralda shares. “I love the traditional sense.”
Judah adds, “I don’t like that I wake up and the first thing I do is get on Instagram. I think it will be greater for me, spiritually, to become Amish.”
As for Billie Jo, she describes herself as a lifelong Amish culture aficionado who already dresses in traditional clothing. The chance to officially join the Amish is a dream come true for the New Yorker.
Another participant named Matt is a newly divorced Texas dad looking for a spiritual reset and to rebuild his life on stronger values.
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Leading the way are various Amish hosts who open their lives and hearts to guide the newcomers through the transition. Bishop Vernon will be joined by couple Allen and Sarah and other hosts who try to welcome the outsiders with open arms.
“With Suddenly Amish, we’re expanding on TLC’s legacy of immersive storytelling seen in shows like Breaking Amish and Return to Amish,” TLC’s senior SVP of Production and Development Alon Orstein said in a statement to Us. “This series offers a rare, intimate look at what happens when outsiders step into a deeply traditional community. We’re proud to share a journey that’s emotional, surprising and undeniably human.”
Suddenly Amish premieres on TLC Tuesday, January 13 at 10 p.m. ET.
