Bachelor Nation alum Rachel Lindsay shares an update on her relationship with Chris Harrison almost a year after his exit. Keep reading to find out where they stand today.
One-year anniversary of disastrous interview looms
In January of 2021, Matt James’ season of The Bachelor kicked off. A few weeks into the season, one of his frontrunners – Rachael Kirkconnell – got caught in a social media storm. Photos surfaced of her attending an antebellum-themed college party.
In early February, Bachelor Nation host Chris Harrison appeared on Extra in an interview with correspondent – and former Bachelorette – Rachel Lindsay.
What he said on the TV interview would eventually lead to his exit from the franchise. Many viewers took issue with his demeanor toward Lindsay and his defense of Kirkconnell attending the party.
The backlash was swift for Rachel Lindsay, with many fanatics blaming her for Harrison’s exit.
Who replaced Chris Harrison as host?
For several months after the interview, Chris Harrison’s future with the franchise was in question. However, in June of 2021, he ended speculation by announcing his departure. That left the network scrambling to find a replacement host.
They ultimately chose Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe to co-host Season 17 and 18 of The Bachelorette. Season 7 of Bachelor in Paradise had revolving celebrity hosts.
ABC brought in former Bachelor Jesse Palmer to host Season 26 of The Bachelor, which is currently airing. However, they have yet to reveal if Palmer will be a full-time replacement for Chris Harrison.
Rachel Lindsay shares update on relationship with Chris Harrison
During a recent interview with People magazine, Rachel Lindsay reflected on the Chris Harrison scandal. She previously spoke of “vile” fans and chose to cut ties with the franchise, including stepping away from the Bachelor Happy Hour podcast.
Does that include ending her friendship with Chris Harrison? According to Rachel Lindsay, Chris Harrison is the one who cut ties with her. After revealing they no longer speak, she added, “He unfollowed me. That tells me everything I need to know.”
Says she’s still getting hate messages and death threats
While Rachel Lindsay may think some fans in the franchise are toxic, she was clear that she doesn’t want to the show to end. Rather, she is still hopeful the show will “naturally and organically step into 2022.” What does that mean?
“I hope the show steps up and diversifies more, whether it’s with age or gender or race.” – Rachel Lindsay, People magazine.
The reality star took a break from Instagram amid the scandal due to negative and hateful messages from Bachelor Nation fans. She told the outlet that she even received death threats.
Furthermore, she still gets hate messages daily from disgruntled viewers accusing her of ruining the show.
Her feature in People magazine comes ahead of the release of her upcoming book.
Her collection of essays, Miss Me with That: Hot Takes, Helpful Tidbits, and a Few Hard Truths, comes out on Tuesday, January 25.
Does it surprise you that she no longer talks to Chris Harrison? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
