Chris Harrison Replaced By David Spade On ‘Bachelor In Paradise’

ABC revealed that Chris Harrison will not be hosting the newest season of Bachelor in Paradise. A revolving door of celebrity guests, led by David Spade, will serve as hosts on the reality dating show. Season seven of Bachelor in Paradise premieres August 17 at 8 pm.

Harrison’s continued hiatus from Bachelor Nation comes after ABC stated that the host would not be returning for season 17 of The Bachelorette, which premieres June 7. The network posted the statement on The Bachelorette Instagram account.

The post read, “We support Chris in the work that he is committed to doing. In his absence, former Bachelorettes Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe will support the new Bachelorette through next season. As we continue the dialogue around achieving greater equity and inclusion within The Bachelor franchise, we are dedicated to improving the BIPOC representation of our crew, including among the executive producer ranks. These are important steps in effecting fundamental change so that our franchise is a celebration of love that is reflective of our world.”

It is unclear whether or not Harrison will host season 18 of The Bachelorette, starring Michelle Young.  He has stated previously that he wished to return to the franchise, but there has been no word yet. Harrison told GMA’s Michael Strahan, “I plan to be back, and I want to be back.”

Harrison’s removal from Bachelor Nation comes after a recent controversy where images surfaced of Rachael Kirkconnell, a former contestant from Matt James‘ season of The Bachelor, at an antebellum-themed plantation formal that celebrated the Old South. Harrison defended Kirkconnell’s actions in an interview with another former contestant. He later apologized for his words and said that he had decided to take a step back from the franchise.