'Bachelor' host Chris Harrison says he regrets defending Rachael Kirkconnell's racism
Presenter of the Bachelor, Chris Harrison, states that he regrets defending Rachel Kirkconnell’s past racist actions

By Laura Harman
Chris Harrison states, “It was a mistake," to defend Rachael Kirkconnell’s previous racist actions in a new interview with Good Morning America.
Chris Harrison, the host of the Bachelor, has spoken up about his mistake when it came to defending contestant Rachael Kirkconnell. “I made a mistake. I am an imperfect man, I made a mistake, and I own that," said Harrison.
On the current season of The Bachelor, a contestant, Racheal Kirkconnell, has been accused of racism after old social media posts have resurfaced. One post shows the contestant in Native American clothing that she is wearing as a costume at a party. Another image shows her attending a distasteful plantation-themed 'Old South' ball.
Read more from woman&home:
• Best pillow for a comfortable, pain-free night’s sleep
• Best scented candles for a warm and cozy home this winter
• Best kindles for digital book lovers - we help you decide which one to buy
.@chrisbharrison to @michaelstrahan: "I made a mistake." See the exclusive interview TOMORROW on @GMA. https://t.co/wmtSZrBI99 pic.twitter.com/ALtcUbTmG1March 3, 2021
Chris Harrison first defended Rachael’s behavior in an interview with former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay. In the interview, Chris stated that people should have, "a little grace, a little understanding, a little compassion," for Racheal Kirconell.
Rachel Lindsay agreed that attending an old south-themed party was “not a good look.” Chris then further defended Rachael Kirkconnell by suggesting that in 2021 we may view her behavior differently than it was perceived in 2018. “Well, Rachel, is it a good look in 2018? Or, is it not a good look in 2021? Because there's a big difference," said Chris.
The former bachelorette replied critically, "It's not a good look ever, because she's celebrating the Old South. If I went to that party, what would I represent at that party?"
Since this conversation, Rachel Lindsay has said on her podcast, ‘Higher Learning With Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay.’ That she was unimpressed by Chris Harrison’s behavior during their interview. She said, “During that conversation, his privilege was on display, he never gave me room to talk and he never gave me room to share my perspective, he wasn't trying to hear it, he just wanted to be heard."
Chris Harrison and Rachel Lindsay
Since this interview, it is clear that Chris has retracted his former statements. He has apologized to Rachel by stating, "I am saddened and shocked at how insensitive I was in that interview with Rachel Lindsay. I can't believe I didn't speak against antebellum parties, what they stand for.”
He has also stated, "I stand against all forms of racism, and I am deeply sorry to Rachel Lindsay and to the Black community."
Chris Harrison's future as the host of The Batchelor and Batchelorette is now uncertain. With some stating that he should step back and others saying that he has apologized and the problem is over.
Fans have been divided about this issue. One fan commented, “He apologized. Let’s move on. It’s being dragged out way longer than it needs to be. If he doesn’t return to the franchise then that’s fine, he owns his mistake. But when is this going to end?” Another fan replied to this statement, “it ends when he stops saying uneducated stuff. he’s his own worse enemy.”
-
Gun salutes take place across the UK, Gibraltar and warships at sea to honor Prince Philip
The Duke of Edinburgh passed away this week, aged 99
By Lauren Hughes •
-
This viral microwave hack on TikTok is pure genius
TikTok swooping in to save the day, yet again
By Danielle Valente •
-
British model Ellie Goldstein spills her guide to beauty and staying true to yourself
The British model gave us an inside look into her beauty routine and this is what we learned
By Rylee Johnston •
-
Starbucks is going sustainable by testing out a reusable cup program
It's all in an effort for a greener planet
By Danielle Valente •
-
Kelly Clarkson proves she's still relatable with this TMI story
Kelly Clarkson opens up and spills one of her most embarrassing stories
By Rylee Johnston •
-
Pop the bubbly: the Oscars' champagne partner has spirits for you to enjoy just like the stars
Watch at home with Hollywood's official celebratory drink
By Danielle Valente •
-
Royal Family asks public not to mourn Prince Philip with this common gesture
The Royal Family has made a special request to the public following death of Prince Philip
By Emma Dooney •
-
Love yourself: Tracee Ellis Ross is choosing 'gratitude and compassion' for her body over judgment
Tracee Ellis Ross opened up on social media about accepting her body during quarantine
By Rylee Johnston •