The Bachelor's Chris Harrison 'to be replaced by superfan David Spade' after host stepped down following racist scandal
Olivia Shea
Published Sep 05, 2026
THE Bachelor's Chris Harrison will "be replaced by superfan David Spade."
The news comes after the longtime host stepped from the franchise following his racism scandal.
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Page Six broke the news on Wednesday that Chris will not host the upcoming season of Bachelor in Paradise.
David has proven to be familiar with The Bachelor franchise, as she regularly posts about the shows on Twitter and Instagram.
Sources told the outlet that David was chosen to replace Chris because he’s a superfan.
The actor has built a cult following among fellow fans due to his hilarious commentary about the show, which he often shares on his Instagram account.
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The insider explained that David is a perfect fit to fill the role, stating: “The producers want to put some fun in the show. They think it’s become too serious.”
In addition to regularly posting about the show on social media, the 56-year-old actor opened up his love for the franchise while appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
The new season of Bachelor in Paradise will begin airing on ABC on August 16.
Chris, 49, previously announced he was stepping down from the show after he found himself in the middle of a racism scandal.
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The controversy began when photos resurfaced of contestant Rachael Kirkconnell attending an "old south" party.
Rachael K. competed to win over Matt James on The Bachelor, while she eventually won the season.
Chris defended the contestant while being interviewed by former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay on Extra, stating: "We all need to have a little grace, a little understanding, a little compassion. Because I've seen some stuff online… again, this 'judge, jury, executioner' thing where people are just tearing this girl's life apart."
Following backlash, Chris stepped down from the show and publicly apologized to Rachel.
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While talking to GMA's Michael Strahan, Chris said: "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.
"I stand against all forms of racism, and I am deeply sorry to Rachel Lindsay and to the Black community."
He claimed that he apologized to Rachel and did so once more on the interview, stating: "To anyone who is throwing hate at Lindsay, please stop. It is unacceptable."
Former stars Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe stepped in as hosts for the upcoming seasons of The Bachelorette.
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