"Bachelor" fans Bachelorette" contestant Arie Luyendyk Jr. -- from way back in season eight -- was selected as the new face of the franchise. But loyal viewers will certainly have plenty of reasons to watch the new season, according to the star.

While speaking with reporters in promotion of "The Bachelor" season 22, Luyendyk admitted that he had an extremely difficult time handing out the final rose.

"I actually fell in love with two people," the reality contestant said. " ... That's the hardest decision of your life, really. It's a forever decision, so it's not taken lightly. That was probably the hardest thing for me."

While some spoiler sites already claim to know who those two lucky final ladies might be (click here if you're curious and don't mind reading some potentially huge SPOILERS), Luyendyk didn't tip his hand to reporters. But he did say that he was definitely ready to settle down, and was eager to begin the next chapter with his new love.

"I'm in a place of my life where I am really ready for marriage," the star told reporters. "I want nothing more than to start a family and settle down."

Fans will get to see Luyendyk's wrenching decision play out when "The Bachelor" premieres on January 1 on ABC.

[via: The Hollywood Reporter]