In TLC’s new reality series “Suddenly Amish,” six individuals will leave behind the comforts of their modern “English” lifestyle and enter a deeply traditional Amish community in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where they will navigate cultural expectations and ultimately decide whether or not they want to convert into Amish society. 

“While ‘Rumspringa’ offers Amish the chance to experience the outside world, very rarely are outsiders allowed in,” the logline for the new series reads. “To help grow a shrinking population, a progressive group of Amish hosts and community members are taking a new approach as they invite a diverse group of English outsiders into their community in this life-changing opportunity.” 

In the ‘Suddenly Amish’ trailer, viewers get their first look at the six non-Amish individuals as they enter the unfamiliar community, where they are forced to part ways with technology, electricity and modern conveniences– like air conditioning and indoor toilets– and embrace a life of strict daily routines, rules and cultural expectations that will push them completely out of their comfort zones. 

After facing emotional breakthroughs, culture clashes and a series of difficult challenges within the community, each individual will decide whether or not they want to continue living the Amish lifestyle. 

Meet the six “outsiders” of ‘Suddenly Amish’ below: 

Kendra, 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”; Matt, a 34-year-old newly divorced dad from Texas who is “looking for a spiritual reset” and wanting to rebuild his life on stronger values; and Judah, a 22-year-old “bougie” rapper from Missouri who has a germ-phobia and a craving for “real belonging.” 

Also taking a leap into Amish life on the new series is Aaron, a 40-year-old pastor’s son from Michigan who is drawn to Amish life, but has a hearing disability that he manages using modern technology– something not permitted in the Amish world; Esmerelda, a 25-year-old Texan longing for the stability of a “traditional” family, but has “deeply intertwined her identity with glamour”; and 44-year-old Billie Jo, a New Yorker and Amish culture connoisseur who is one step ahead of the other “newcomers,” due to her already dressing in traditional Amish clothing. 

Guiding the “newcomers” through their radical transition into the Amish lifestyle is Bishop Vernon, a respected leader set on growing his community through tradition and his own “bold and unorthodox” approach. Joining Bishop Vernon are Amish hosts Allen and Sarah, two “seasoned mentors” who are parents to four adopted children in the community. 

Also serving as Amish hosts in the new series are James and Emma. James is a self-proclaimed rebel who is working to get back into the good graces of his community after previously being shunned. On ‘Suddenly Amish,’ viewers will watch as James wrestles with temptation, as well as tradition and redemption.

As for James’ cousin Emma, she will offer the “newcomers” support while navigating her own complex relationships and boundaries, having only recently returned to Amish life.  

‘Suddenly Amish’ premieres Tuesday, January 13 on TLC. Watch the first trailer below.

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(Photos: TLC; YouTube)