Bachelor Nation Divided Over Chris Harrison’s Controversial TV Return
Chris Harrison’s exit from Bachelor Nation marked the end of an era for one of reality television’s longest-running franchises. After hosting The Bachelor and its spinoffs for nearly two decades, Harrison stepped away in 2021 following backlash over comments he made while defending past racially insensitive behavior tied to the show. What began as a controversy quickly became a broader reckoning for the franchise, forcing ABC to confront long-standing criticism about diversity. Now, Harrison appears to be back to host a new dating series. Here’s how Bachelor Nation is responding.
Chris Harrison is returning to reality TV after his controversial exit as ‘The Bachelor’ host
Chris Harrison exited The Bachelor franchise in 2021 following a controversy surrounding race and accountability. The backlash centered on an interview Harrison gave to former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay. In the interview, Harrison defended contestant Rachael Kirkconnell after photos surfaced of her attending an antebellum-themed fraternity party. Harrison urged viewers to show “grace” and minimized the harm of such imagery. His remarks were widely criticized for dismissing the historical context of racism.
As public pressure mounted, ABC announced that Harrison would temporarily step aside. They framed the move as part of a broader effort to address concerns about representation and inclusion within the franchise. In June 2021, ABC confirmed that Harrison would not return as host. Reports at the time indicated that Harrison and the network settled. This allowed both sides to move on as the franchise attempted to reset its public image with new hosts and a renewed emphasis on diversity.
In 2023, Harrison discussed his exit on Jason Tartick’s Trading Secrets podcast. “What I went through was tumultuous,” the former host stated. “I don’t wish it on anybody. It was horrifying on a lot of levels, and something that I pray to God my worst enemy never goes through. But, with that said, I knew I had to remove myself from what became a very toxic situation.”
Bachelor Nation stars are rallying behind Chris Harrison’s new dating reality show
Chris Harrison is back to host a new dating reality TV series. On Feb. 4, 2026, he posted an ad on Instagram for a new show that’s currently casting. And the show is not affiliated with ABC or Bachelor Nation.
“Now casting: Dating for a traditional marriage!” the ad reads. “Chris Harrison is back — hosting a brand new dating series! A prominent streaming service is casting single men and women (21+) who want a traditional, marriage-minded partnership built on commitment and shared values.” The ad notes that the show wants singles who value “clear roles” in their relationships and “long-term commitment.”
Several Bachelor Nation stars supported Harrison in the comments of the post.
“Best in the business!” Sean Lowe, the star of The Bachelor Season 17, commented.
Andrew Firestone, the star of The Bachelor Season 3, also commented with clapping hands and fire emojis.
Gracie Hunt, the daughter of Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt, also commented, “Let’s goooo!!”
Harrison’s wife, Lauren Zima, also wrote, “LOVE it ;).”
The Bachelorette and Bachelor of Paradise contestant Chase McNary commented, “Should just call it
‘The Right Reasons.'”
Ben Higgins, the lead of The Bachelor Season 20, also wrote, “He’s back!!!”
Fans of the ABC dating shows aren’t as supportive
While Chris Harrison is garnering support for his next big hosting move, many Bachelor Nation fans who know and love the iconic shows can’t get behind the concept of the new series.
“What in the low-budget TV show is this,” a fan on Reddit wrote. “It’s giving ‘Apply to find love and receive a rebate for teeth cleaning!'”
“‘Singles who believe in clear roles’ makes me want to gag,” another user noted.
“Forever feeling vindicated for never liking this man,” another fan commented.
“If you have any doubts — just check out the application,” yet another fan wrote. “It’s legitimately icky. And one question requires you to go into detail about every tattoo you have. Super weird.”
Fans eagerly await hearing whether other Bachelor Nation stars will stand in opposition to the program.
