After 19 Years, Chris Harrison Talks Contentious, Messy Bachelor Franchise Exit in Rare Comments
A difficult franchise departure
Harrison left The Bachelor franchise in February 2021 after facing backlash for defending contestant Rachael Kirkconnell against racism claims. Several months later, he confirmed he was departing after 19 years as host.
Speaking on the Unplanned podcast, he compared the exit to the end of a relationship. Harrison called it “a little contentious, a little messy,” but said that did not make the decision wrong for him.
A mutual decision to leave
Asked whether he expected to retire after a reported $9 million payout, Harrison said his departure was a mutual parting of the ways. He said he was renegotiating a contract when he decided it was time to go.
Harrison described the choice as difficult, saying the job no longer felt like the right place for him. He said there was a point when he wondered whether he would work in the business or host another relationship show.
Finding a new television project
Harrison said his exit ultimately helped him grow and reconnect with people in his life. He described the experience as a blessing and said it led him toward a new project.
He said renewed excitement about creating The Vow prompted him to return to television. The dating show is set to appear on Fox Nation.
Key points
- Harrison left The Bachelor franchise after 19 years as host.
- He described the exit as contentious and messy, but said it was the right choice.
- He said his departure was mutual and came during contract renegotiations.
- Harrison said leaving helped inspire The Vow, his upcoming Fox Nation dating show.