Rachel Lindsay named the next 'Bachelorette'

Feb. 14 (UPI) -- ABC has announced that current Bachelor contestant Rachel Lindsay will be the network's next Bachelorette.

The announcement was made Monday on Jimmy Kimmel Live! with the late night host acknowledging that the news spoils the current season of the Bachelor as fans now know that Lindsay will not be Nick Viall's final pick.

According to Lindsay who appeared on the talkshow, the early reveal was made as casting for Season 13 of The Bachelorette is already underway.

"We're a couple of weeks from filming," she said. "We're ready to get this started. I'm ready to find love, find a husband, so if you know anybody out there who needs to apply, sign up, go ahead and get started!"

The Dallas attorney also detailed how she is looking for "someone who's ready to start a family" and to meet someone "who can make me laugh."

Viall would take to Twitter to congratulate Lindsay writing, "My heart is full of joy for you Rachel. Congrats!! You will be one hell of a Bachelorette!! Beauty & class.. you have it all!!"

Notably, Lindsay represents the first African American lead for the franchise male or female. She was also the first African American contestant to receive the show's "first impression rose" during this season's premiere.

"We're thrilled to have Rachel Lindsay as our next Bachelorette," Robert Mills, who oversees the franchise for ABC said in a statement.

"This coveted role is always reserved for a fan-favorite from the previous season, and Rachel is no exception and has been the fans' choice since she exited the limo. She is an accomplished, confident and beautiful woman who knows what she wants in life. We all look forward to joining her on the joyous journey as she looks for that one special man," he continued.

The Bachelorette is set to premiere May 22 on ABC.