Ex-Onlyfans Star Makes Bold Leap To Amish Life On Tlc'S 'Suddenly Amish'

Kendra Bates' Journey from LA Glam to Amish Life

Kendra Bates, once a dancer and OnlyFans model, has made a striking life change by relocating from Los Angeles to immerse herself in the Amish way of living. Grappling with her faith, the 33-year-old is now part of TLC's "Suddenly Amish," a reality series where six participants leave modern comforts behind to live in rural Pennsylvania. Bates is no stranger to change, having spent nearly a decade in LA. "I have gotten so far away from my roots... I’m just not feeling it anymore," Bates shared about her decision to leave the city.

Embracing a Simpler Way of Life

"Suddenly Amish," overseen by Bishop Vernon, invites people from the outside world, known as "English," to experience the ways of the Amish, a community not typically open to outsiders. Bates' transition resonates with her desire to reconnect with her Christian faith, a theme prevalent throughout her journey. She recalls feeling a moral alignment with her new life, a stark contrast to her previous lifestyle. "This is literally an opportunity from God," Bates expressed eagerly.

"I needed to get out of my element to grow. I wanted to change," Bates said, highlighting her determination to pursue a different path.

From OnlyFans to Amish Faith

While Bates once thrived as an OnlyFans creator, the pandemic prompted her to explore this platform further. The subscription-based site was a financial boon for many during a period when traditional venues were shuttered. However, Bates' transformation shows a deep personal evolution. "I have so much more in my heart to give, and that outweighs anything I’ve done in my past," she reflects on her decision to leave the platform behind.

Returning to Roots

Bates' shift towards the Amish lifestyle is not entirely unfamiliar. Her family history includes ties to the Mennonite community, a group with more modern practices compared to the Amish. This connection, combined with her exploration of Rumspringa during college, laid the groundwork for her current path. Despite identifying as a "proud atheist" in the past, her recent experiences have rekindled her faith, culminating in a baptism in January 2025.

Challenges and Insights in the Amish Community

Despite her readiness to abandon modern conveniences, Bates faced unexpected challenges regarding her appearance. In "Suddenly Amish," Bates' attire – such as a short skirt with a plunging neckline – drew comments from Bishop Vernon about modesty, reflecting the community's traditional values. These experiences pushed Bates to reassess her lifestyle choices. "I say I’m living for God, but I’m not dressing in a godly way," she confessed, sharing her resolve to discard most of her wardrobe.

As "Suddenly Amish" unfolds, Bates continues to embrace her spiritual journey, learning from her Amish peers about humility and community. "My past is my past, and anyone who holds me to it isn’t someone I want in my life," she asserts, embodying a fresh perspective as she aligns her life with her beliefs.