From Onlyfans To Amish: Kendra Bates' Radical Life Transformation

An Unexpected Journey

Kendra Bates, who once claimed fame as an OnlyFans model, is now making headlines for a completely different reason. She has joined TLC's intriguing new show, 'Suddenly Amish,' where she steps into the shoes of an Amish community member. This transition marks a drastic lifestyle change for Bates, who is eager to reconnect with her roots and embrace a life that's more in tune with her values.

Finding Faith and Simplicity

Bates describes this opportunity as nothing short of a divine intervention. "When I was presented with this opportunity, I was like, 'This is literally an opportunity from God,'" she shared with Fox News Digital. Having felt lost in the bustling city of Los Angeles for nearly a decade, she was ready for a radical change. Her time in L.A., characterized by superficiality and chaos, left her yearning for the simpler, more morally aligned life she believed the Amish community could offer.

“This is a no-brainer for me,” she continued. “I have gotten so far away from my roots living in L.A. because it’s so drastically different. I’ve been in L.A. for about nine or 10 years now. I’m just not feeling it anymore — superficial, dirty L.A.”

Embracing New Beginnings

The Wisconsin native was drawn to the show after seeing a casting call on social media. With generations of her family having been part of the Mennonite community, which shares many beliefs with the Amish, Bates saw this as a chance to return to her 'small roots.' Her journey was sparked by a period of self-reflection, questioning her career path and the relationships she had, leading to a spiritual awakening and baptism in January 2025.

Leaving the Past Behind

Reflecting on her past, Bates candidly shared her struggles with identity and self-worth. "I wasn’t respecting myself," she admitted, detailing her history as a "proud atheist" who indulged in binge-drinking and substance use. The allure of financial success on OnlyFans was strong, yet Bates realized it was not the empowerment she sought.

A New Fascination

Bates' fascination with the Amish way of life stems from their stark contrast to her own experiences. "I think I was fascinated by the Amish because they live so differently than I do," she explained. Joining 'Suddenly Amish' is more than just a television gig; for Bates, it's a personal mission to grow and transform by immersing herself in a world so unlike her own.