From La Lights To Amish Nights: Kendra Bates' Life-Altering Transition

Kendra Bates' Bold Move From LA To Amish Living

From the glitz of Los Angeles to the quiet charms of an Amish community in rural Pennsylvania, Kendra Bates' journey is nothing short of a Hollywood plot twist. The 33-year-old former OnlyFans model and dancer is making headlines as one of six participants on TLC's reality series "Suddenly Amish," a show that has people swap their modern lives for a simpler existence. The series is led by Bishop Vernon, who introduces these newcomers – known as "English" – to the Amish way of life, contrasting with their famous resistance to modernity.

Bates, once immersed in California’s fast-paced lifestyle, seized this opportunity for change, viewing the show as a divine intervention. "When I was presented with this opportunity, I was like, 'This is literally an opportunity from God,'" she shared in an interview, reflecting on her need to realign her life with her Christian values.

"I wanted to get back to small roots again," Bates expressed, noting her desire to escape the superficiality she felt in LA after nearly a decade.

A Journey of Faith and Self-Discovery

Bates' move isn't just a physical change but also a spiritual journey back to her roots. Growing up, her family had ties to the Mennonite community, and she carried an enduring curiosity about the Amish lifestyle. Her past life in LA, filled with late nights and social media stardom, began clashing with her newfound Christian faith following her baptism in January 2025.

Despite her previous identification as a "proud atheist," Bates' spiritual journey took a new trajectory after stepping into a church in California. "I felt like I was losing myself," Bates admitted, as she reflected on her struggles with self-respect and the party lifestyle. Now, she sees her new life as a chance to embrace a deeper moral and spiritual alignment.

Embracing Amish Simplicity and Learning

Adjusting to the Amish way of life meant shedding some comforts Kendra was used to, like her phone and familiar wardrobe. On "Suddenly Amish," her first appearance in a short skirt drew correction from Bishop Vernon, who saw it as an opportunity for learning about Amish views on modesty. Bates, accustomed to the sunny LA climate, found herself reevaluating her presentation in this new environment.

"Bishop Vernon told me, 'I feel like I’m looking at you and something is missing in your heart — something isn’t aligned,'" she recalled. This realization prompted her to discard much of her wardrobe, seeking to live in a way that reflected her new values.

Despite the challenges, Bates is embracing her new life with open arms. As she learns to churn butter and live modestly, she's gaining a deeper appreciation for the community around her. "I have so much more in my heart to give," Bates says, grateful for this second chance at life.

In her ongoing journey of faith and self-discovery, Kendra Bates is proving that a change of scenery can sometimes lead to the most profound transformations.