Rumor Has It That The Bachelor Might Be Coming To An End
Well, presumably. The show has announced its next installment of "The Bachelorette" series with Michelle Young and Katie Thurston as the titular "Bachelorette(s)." However, former participant Blake Horstmann thinks that Young's season may be the last for the franchise.
The Bachelor has been the subject of intense media scrutiny after a slew of racial allegations against cast members, the show, and the show's host gained public ire. Moreover, the scandal arose during the season of "The Bachelor's" first black leading man.
According to Horstmann's predictions, the recent scandal is the final straw for the franchise's nearly 20-year run. The former "Bachelor in Paradise" cast member aired his views on a Q and A session on his Instagram stories. Horstmann, recognizing his prediction may appear controversial, went on to explain himself.
Blake Horstmann Thinks "The Bachelor" Is Coming To An End
Longterm "Bachelor" host Chris Harrison came under fire for his defense of what was seen as racially insensitive behavior from season 25 contestant Rachael Kirkconnell. Harrison later announced he would step down. However, his voice still played over in the finale episode. To the controversy, Horstmann said,
"Whether you think it's right, wrong, whatever your stance on the Chris Harrison thing, I think it drove away a lot of loyal fans and viewers."
Kirkconnell was seen as a favorite to win the heart of Matt James. However, photos resurfaced of Kirkconnell attending an Old South Party in 2018. Unfortunately, it is reported that despite apparent talks between the two in New York, the almost couple is no longer on speaking terms.
How Did The Bachelor Deal With The Scandal?
Aside from Harrison stepping down from the show, The Bachelor producers pulled him from hosting the series. Moreover, they replaced him with sports analyst and author Emmanuel Acho.
Acho was then tasked with addressing the controversy. James opened up to Acho about the responsibility he felt while on the show. He also discussed topics surrounding diversity and inclusion within "The Bachelor."
Rachael Lindsay Predicts The End Of The Bachelor
Hortsmann is not the only person who thinks that the Bachelor will come to an end. Former "Bachelorette" Rachel Lindsay also lent her two cents on the matter. However, she blamed the fandoms, calling them toxic. She said,
"Bachelor Nation, y'all are gonna be the reason this show doesn't exist anymore 'cause you're so damn toxic."
Lindsay had previously interviewed Harrison on Kirkconnell's scandal. It was in her interview that Harrison lent the defense that gained outcry. Therefore, this interview is deemed the partial reason for Harrison's departure and later apology.
Who Has Replaced Chris Harrison
Harrison's departure from the show is temporary. He announced that he would be using the time away from the show to make more educated decisions. In his place, the following "Bachelorette" seasons for Thurston and Young will be hosted by former "Bachelorette's" Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe.
Despite the many predictions, Young is still hopeful of "The Bachelor franchise." The teacher is still excited to find new love and usher in a new era for the series. She also added that the show is working and looking forward to making a positive impact with her.
What's Next For "The Bachelor?"
Thurston's and Young's role as the new "Bachelorette" seasons was announced during James's After the Final Rose special. Thurston's season 17 of "The Bachelorette" will air in summer 2021, whereas Young's season 18 will air in the fall. To this, Horstmann predicts that ratings will plummet.