The Bachelorette Australia executives have admitted that Schapelle Corby being the show’s next lead isn’t off the table now that she’s split from her partner of 16 years, Ben Panangian.
The 45-year-old — who is most infamously known for being convicted for drug smuggling in Bali in 2005 — took to Instagram on August 7 to reveal that she’s back on the market.
Now, news of her single status could see the former SAS Australia contestant snapping up another reality gig.
Chatting to Nova’s Fitzy & Wippa on August 8, Warner Bros executive producer Ed said while no decision has been made on the next Bachelorette, Schapelle could be a good investment.
“I think a lot of people would tune in,” he told hosts Ryan “Fitzy” Fitzgerald and Michael “Wippa” Wipfli. “Do you think she’d be good on the dates?”
Fitzy then put his pitch forward for the show’s finale destination.
“And the final decision, her down to two guys, the final decision is in Kuta,” he suggested, referencing the Bali location where Schapelle was arrested for drug smuggling.
Ed admitted that while the potential Bachette hadn’t been considered previously, he’ll “absolutely put” her name forward to Channel 10.
Should a stint on The Bachelorette eventuate, it would mark Schapelle’s third reality show venture. This follows SAS Australia in 2020 and Dancing With The Stars in 2021.
What Has Schapelle Corby Revealed About Her Break Up from Ben Panangian?
Schapelle and Ben met during her nine-year stint in Indonesia’s Kerobokan Prison. While she previously expressed her wish to start a family with the surfer, it proved difficult due to Ben’s criminal record meaning he couldn’t relocate to Australia.
Now, it seems Schapelle has wasted no time in her new search for love, taking to the ‘gram to ask her followers to “help a girl out”.
“Looking for a New Four Leaf Clover,” she penned. “* ATTENTION *. Help a girl out — Get Tagging. [sic].”
The post was accompanied by a snap of her and Ben, who is virtually unrecognisable with his figure scribbled out.
After The Bachelorette 2021 fell victim to dismal ratings, could Schapelle prove to be the shakeup the once-popular dating show needs?
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