Chris Harrison issued an apology and will be “stepping aside for a period of time” after “excusing historical racism.”   The longtime host has been under fire for his interview comments defending the racist actions of contestant Rachael Kirkconnell. “This historic season should not be marred or overshadowed by mistakes or diminished by my actions,” Harrison said with the announcement. This year’s Bachelor lead Matt James is the first Black Bachelor in 25 seasons.  

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In a new statement, ‘Bachelor’ host Chris Harrison says he is ‘stepping aside’ temporarily: ‘This historic season should not be marred or overshadowed by mistakes or diminished by my actions.’​ https://t.co/WzZ7vGkNZN

— Entertainment Weekly (@EW) February 13, 2021