Chris Harrison, who opted to leave his position as host of The Bachelor in February 2021 after overseeing the reality dating competition for 19 years, recently expressed thanks for his extended experience in the post. The uproar surrounding his backing of season 25 participant Rachael Kirkconnell because of her prior racist acts was the reason behind his resignation.
In an interview with former Bachelorette Jason Tartick for the Trading Secrets podcast, the 52-year-old Harrison called his time on the show a “blessing and a curse.” Despite the initial difficulties, Harrison acknowledged that the experience had a big positive impact on his life and came to the conclusion that he wouldn’t wish such a challenging circumstance on anyone.
Chris Harrison (Credits: PEOPLE)
In light of the controversy’s aftermath, Harrison expressed his desire that his deadliest enemy would never go through something comparable, highlighting the “horrifying” aspect of the reaction on several levels. He gave priority to getting out of the poisonous environment even if he thought there could be a long-term remedy.
Harrison cited the benefits to his family and the financial elements of his life as reasons for his satisfaction with his decision to retire. The encouragement he got at his November wedding to Lauren Zima from several former Bachelor Nation members highlighted the priceless relationships he made thanks to the Bachelor series.
Harrison acknowledged the difficulties confronting the entertainment business, especially with the growing popularity of dating programs, even if he said he had no intentions to return to the show. He told Tartick that once he left, other people took advantage of the space, and viewers of The Bachelor turned to new shows. Harrison expressed his thankfulness and concentrated on the experience’s transforming benefits despite the competition.
