Who Is Ben Smith From ‘The Bachelorette’? Chris Harrison Says Tayshia Adams’ Contestant Has an ‘Incredible Story’

Tayshia Adams has officially replaced Clare Crawley on The Bachelorette, and we already know we’re in for an incredible journey. The first four episodes of the season highlighted Crawley’s connection with Dale Moss. But now, it’s time to get acquainted with the other cast members, including the Army veteran who’s already received a solid edit. So who is Ben Smith from The Bachelorette Season 16? Here’s everything we know about the contestant so far.

Who is Ben Smith on ‘The Bachelorette’ with Tayshia Adams and Clare Crawley?

Ben Smith from ‘The Bachelorette’ | Craig Sjodin/ABC via Getty Images

RELATED: ‘The Bachelorette’: Dale Moss & Clare Crawley Update Fans on Their Engagement

According to his Bachelorette profile on ABC.com, Ben — not to be mistaken for fan-favorite Bennett Jordan — is from Venice, California. Ben graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and The United States Army Ranger School. However, he didn’t return to active duty after a back injury. 

Now, Ben is a fitness trainer, which comes as no surprise if you browse the Bachelorette star’s Instagram (@benveesmith). Ben’s feed is filled with pics that showcase his “passion for health and nutrition,” per his ABC profile. But ultimately, it seems Ben is ready to get married and settle down. So is Adams his perfect match? Maybe.

“Ben wants a wife who can openly communicate and stay emotionally available,” the bio reads. “She also must be able to keep up with him on the dance floor or at least be willing to cheer him on when he jumps in the middle of a dance battle to show off some of his winning moves.”

Chris Harrison teases Ben Smith’s time on ‘The Bachelorette’

Clare Crawley and Ben Smith on ‘The Bachelorette’ | Craig Sjodin/ABC via Getty Images

RELATED: ‘The Bachelorette’: Tayshia Adams Says She’s ‘Happy’ After Filming the Show

Back in September, Chris Harrison introduced The Bachelorette Season 16 cast and hinted at what to expect from Ben. The host described the contestant as a “gentle giant” and an overall great guy.

“Incredibly nice, big talker, and a long talker. When you get Ben going, it’s hard to get him to stop. But [he] has an incredible story,” Harrison said. “Unbelievable service to our country. Thank you, Ben. It was really a pleasure and an honor to get to know this gentleman. Well-liked and kind of a natural leader in the house. The guys really look up to him.”

Meanwhile, Ben has had quite the edit on The Bachelorette Season 16 thus far. Not only was he the first man out of the limo, but he also kissed Crawley on night one. The kiss was never aired on ABC. However, the network captured the moment in a photo. 

Even so, Ben continuously received some screentime as The Bachelorette went on. In the week 2 group date, the ABC reality series highlighted Ben’s sweet words of affirmation. Then in the week 3 group date, the producers showed Crawley’s reaction to Ben’s roast. And ultimately, the lead suggested Ben was the only one who didn’t hurt anyone’s feelings.

[Spoiler alert: The Bachelorette 2020.]

What happens to Ben Smith and Tayshia Adams on ‘The Bachelorette’ Season 16?

Ben Smith and Tayshia Adams on ‘The Bachelorette’ | Craig Sjodin/ABC via Getty Images

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As you know, the first four episodes of The Bachelorette Season 16 highlighted Crawley’s journey with her frontrunner. So where does Ben fit into the story? The contestant’s edit has been overwhelmingly positive thus far, meaning it’s possible he’s being set up for something in the future. But according to Bachelor Nation spoiler guru, Reality Steve, Ben isn’t Adams’ final pick.

On Nov. 4, Reality Steve shared spoilers about Adams’ Bachelorette finale. The blogger revealed Ben makes it to the top two. However, the former phlebotomist allegedly chooses Zac Clark. 

“I was told Zac C. was the one who opened up to her the most and professed his love, whereas it was much tougher for Ben,” Reality Steve wrote. “So ultimately she picked Zac.”

For now, The Bachelorette fans will have to wait and see how Ben’s story unfolds. But whatever happens next, we know it’s going to be a wild ride. So get ready.

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