It’s been two years since her last appearance on reality television, but formerBachelorcontestantClare Crawleyis back — in a big way.
“I’m so excited,” Crawley, 38, tells PEOPLE ofbeing cast as the next starofThe Bachelorette. “I’ve gone through a lot of personal growth in the last couple of years. And my goal has always been to find happiness — and love.”
“We realized we were different and wanted different things,” says Crawley. “But we still totally stay in touch. And we root for each other and for each other’s happiness.”
Paul Hebert/ABC via Getty
As for the question of why Crawley would return to the franchise after several unsuccessful attempts at finding love, she is unequivocal.
“People always talk about, ‘Why would you go on the show again?'” she says. “But it’s common for people, especially my age, to go through relationships. And whether they are good or bad, you take something from them. [Each experience] has propelled me into a different level with myself.”
Clare Crawley.Paul Hebert/ABC
This time around, “I feel like my age is really an asset,” says Crawley. “I’ve gone through twists and turns and I know what I will and won’t put up with. Twenty-three-year-old Clare had no clue what I wanted. And I’m glad that wasn’t the end of my love story because I’m such a different woman now.”
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When it comes to her suitors, fame-seekers need not apply.
And ultimately, Crawley feels hopeful that this time, she’ll find The One.
“There have been plenty of times where I’m sitting alone on a Saturday night, thinking, ‘Am I ever going to find anyone?’ But I know what I want and what I’m looking for. And I’m ready to start the next part of my life.”
Crawley’s season ofThe Bachelorettepremieres May 18 on ABC. Share your thoughts inPEOPLE’s exclusive Facebook groupfor fans of the franchise.
source: people.com
