'The Bachelor' season 20 spoilers: ABC has chosen Ben Higgins

Ben Higgins is the next leading man of ABC's "The Bachelor" season 20.Facebook/ABC

ABC has finally revealed its next "bachelor" for season 20 and it is none other than 26-year-old software salesman from Denver, Ben Higgins.

After much speculation on who would be the next leading man of the hit reality series, the announcement was made Monday night during the live episode of "After Paradise." Higgins has previously expressed his interest in becoming the star of the next "The Bachelor" installment set for 2016.

In an interview with Variety, he said that he would be game if the network would offer him the gig.

"I think when that opportunity, if it happens, presents itself, it's something you have to go at. It's a great opportunity. I think being in this experience now has taught me...it's not ideal, but it can work," Higgins shared.

Higgins came third place to Kaitlyn Bristowe's heart during the last season of "The Bachelorette," which aired this summer. Interestingly, Bristowe also felt then that ABC would be choosing him as the next "Bachelor." She said that Higgins "was just God's gift to women" and that everyone could not help but love him.

Meanwhile, the charmer from Denver told People that he is more than ready to share his life with someone. Higgins said that unlike other men, he is not fearful of idea of getting married.

When asked what his ideal type is, he said that he wants a woman who can be both a partner and best friend, regardless of shape or size. Higgins, however, did express a preference for blondes, citing actress Blake Lively as someone who appeals to him. 

As for the qualities of women he finds unattractive, he said he's not partial to mean girls.

"Somebody who doesn't get along with people in the house is not the best girl to get in a relationship with," Higgins said.

"The Bachelor" season 20 will premiere in January 2016 on ABC.