The most recent bachelor lead, 29-year-old Matt James, speaks out against the controversy involving other members of The Bachelor cast.
What We Know:
- The drama first began when fans of The Bachelor managed to dig up old, racially insensitive photos of season 25 contestant Rachael Kirkconnell. Screenshots of 24-year-old Kirkconnell went viral after the photos revealed her dressed as a Native American at an ‘Antebellum-themed party’ in 2018. ‘Antebellum’ refers to the period of time and architecture of the U.S South before the Civil War in 1861. Kirkconnell is also being accused of liking photos on Instagram of confederate flags.
- Long-term The Bachelor host Chris Harrison is also being held under scrutiny for nonchalantly defending Kirkconnell. A recent interview with season 13 bachelorette Rachel Lindsay, who made her debut as the first African-American bachelorette back in 2017, had Harrison saying that he believes Kirkconnell deserves some grace and understanding from fans amid recent allegations against her. Rachel Lindsay made her debut as the first African-American bachelorette back in 2017.
- Lindsay felt as if the interview with Harrison required her to explain what the obvious problem and history of the Antebellum South was. Harrison has since stepped down from his position as The Bachelor host and will not appear in the latest season’s final episode.
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- James views the photos of Kirkconnell as “incredibly disappointing,” and reports reveal that he regrets ever doing the show. Even though this season of The Bachelor is still running, James feels the need to speak his mind on the incident despite being under certain contractual obligations. Contracts aside, it appears as if the show’s future isn’t guaranteed as Harrison’s return to hosting grows increasingly unlikely.
- Both Harrison and Kirkconnell have apologized repeatedly in their defense. It appears they both admit their ignorance and are taking action to redeem themselves. Lindsay further explained on The Tamera Hall Show that “actions speak louder than words” when asked again about the controversy.
The Bachelor‘s future hangs in the balance as the most recent racist allegations expose the subtle discrimination people of color deal with on the program.
