Kendra Bates, a 33-year-old dancer and former OnlyFans model, is navigating a challenging phase of her life. Having left Los Angeles, she’s now immersing herself in an Amish community, seeking a deeper connection with her faith. Bates is one of six participants in TLC’s reality show “Suddenly Amish,” which showcases individuals leaving behind their modern lifestyles for life in rural Pennsylvania.
The show is guided by a figure known as Bishop Vernon, who introduces guests—referred to as “The Englishman”—into Amish traditions, adding a fresh twist to the established norms. The series offers a vivid exploration of cultural contrasts, described by its creators as a social experiment.
Bates expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity, saying it felt like a divine chance. Having lived in LA for nearly a decade, she grew weary of the superficiality she perceived there. According to her, “It’s different—just not the place for me anymore.”
In a segment of the show, Bates encountered cultural differences, specifically in attire, when Bishop Vernon questioned her choice of clothing. She recalled, “At first, I felt exposed, but he was just trying to prompt a conversation.” This reflection on her past led her to reconsider her values and the image she projected.
Compelled by a desire to return to her roots, Bates shared that her family’s historical ties to the Mennonite community influenced her approach. While Mennonites are generally more accepting of modernity compared to the Amish, both groups share core beliefs.
As an Ohio college student, she once attended a rumspringa gathering, a rite of passage for some Amish youth, known for allowing them a taste of the outside world before committing to their faith. Though identifying as a “proud atheist” during that time, Bates always found herself drawn to Amish culture.
She vividly recalls her tumultuous experiences during her earlier years, marked by unhealthy habits and fleeting relationships, further exacerbated by peer pressure to join OnlyFans. Initially attracted by the prospect of financial gain, she soon faced internal conflicts about her choices and their alignment with her emerging Christian beliefs.
Despite this, Bates feels that engaging with the Amish way of life has encouraged personal growth and a more profound understanding of her faith. Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, “I’m learning that my past doesn’t define me. I strive to surround myself with values and individuals that reflect who I want to be.”
Now, Kendra embraces a more modest lifestyle, having discarded much of her past wardrobe, with the hope of building a fulfilling future. Her journey continues to unfold on “Suddenly Amish,” airing Tuesdays at 10 p.m.
