The next leading man for ABC’s dating franchise “The Bachelor” has been named, with the high-profile gig going to Nick Viall. ABC broke the news live last night on “After Paradise.”

Viall, 35, is a veteran of the network’s dating wars, finishing as the runner-up twice on “The Bachelorette.” He is currently appearing on “Bachelor in Paradise.”

Season 21 of “The Bachelor” is due to roll out on ABC in January, with Viall in the spotlight.

Here’s a clip about the network’s controversial selection of Viall, along with other showbiz news, posted by ABC News …