The 'Saturday Night Live' legend is said to have been picked in the wake of the former host's racism controversy since producers think the show has 'become too serious.'
- Jun 3, 2021
AceShowbiz - David Spade will be hosting the upcoming season of "Bachelor in Paradise". The "Saturday Night Live" legend is reported to be among celebrity hosts set to fill in for Chris Harrison in the wake of the latter's racism controversy.
Offering more details about the replacement was Page Six. A source claimed that the 56-year-old stand-up comedian was chosen for the gig because he is a superfan of the ABC franchise and has "built a cult following among fellow fans because of the hilarious commentary about the show" on his Instagram account.
A separate insider, meanwhile, told the outlet that David was picked because "the producers want to put some fun in the show." The insider added, "They think it's become too serious."
This came more than three months after Chris drew backlash for defending "The Bachelor" alum Rachael Kirkconnell for allegedly attending a 2018 Old South plantation-themed party. He, however, has issued an apology. "My ignorance did damage to my friends, colleagues and strangers alike. I have no one to blame but myself for what I said and the way I spoke," he said on Instagram in February.
"To the Black community, to the BIPOC community: I am so sorry. My words were harmful. I am listening, and I truly apologize for my ignorance and any pain it caused you," the TV host pleaded. "The historic season of The Bachelor should not be marred or overshadowed by my mistakes or diminished by my actions... To that end, I have consulted with Warner Bros. and ABC and will be stepping aside for a period of time."
Aside from "Bachelor in Paradise", Chris is not returning to the new season of "The Bachelorette". He will be replaced by former Bachelorettes Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe to host the upcoming season, which is being led by Katie Thurston and premieres on June 7.
