'Bachelor' Host Chris Harrison Leaving Franchise For Good Following Racism Scandal
June 8 2021, Published 11:07 a.m. ET
Bachelor Nation, say goodbye to Chris Harrison.
The long-standing host is departing the franchise after 19 years following a career-shattering racism scandal.
Deadline was first to report the news on Tuesday, just hours after the 17th season of The Bachelorette aired.
Fans were thrilled to see former Bachelorettes Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe hosting in place of Harrison on Monday's premiere episode.
He's reportedly getting a big payout for walking away from the gig, despite catching backlash for defending one contestant's racist past.
Following the backlash, he announced he'd be “stepping aside” from the franchise.
“I have spent the last few days listening to the pain my words have caused, and I am deeply remorseful. My ignorance did damage to friends, colleagues and strangers alike. I have no one to blame but myself for what I said and the way I spoke," Harrison wrote via Instagram on February 13.
"This historic season of The Bachelor should not be marred or overshadowed by my mistakes or diminished by my actions," he continued. “To that end, I have consulted with Warner Bros. and ABC and will be stepping aside for a period of time and will not join for the After the Final Rose special."
Just last week, ABC made a surprising announcement revealing Harrison's replacement for Bachelor In Paradise.
Bachelor Nation was shocked when David Spade was revealed to take his place as host on the franchise spin-off.
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Despite the surprising choice, Spade could bring a breath of fresh air to the stale franchise.
Many are concerned The Bachelor and The Bachelorette won't be able to bounce back, especially now that Harrison is gone.
As of this post, Chris Harrison has not addressed his departure.
