CHRIS Bukowski has publicly disagreed with Chris Harrison’s firing from The Bachelor franchise, as he claimed the entire show is to blame for the lack of “diversity.”
Earlier this month it was announced that the long-time host would not be returning to star in the 17th season of The Bachelorette.
Chris Bukowski, 34, has offered his own opinion on the network’s decision after Chris Harrison was accused of “perpetuating racism” during a biting interview.
“I disagree with him being fired,” the Bachelor alum told Us Weekly, as he further explained his reasoning.
“I think if you want to hold someone accountable, you don’t give them the easy way out by firing them. Chris is the face of the franchise.”
The reality star added that Chris “should be able to lead by example and show that he can change,” in an attempt to make a greater impact in the way of diversity and representation for the franchise.
“The problem on that show is not Chris Harrison,” the TV personality told the publication.
“It’s everyone. It’s production, it’s the cast, it’s the people that watch the show. So, if you’re going to put blame on one person and you’re going to point fingers at one person … I disagree with it completely.”
The controversy began when old photos surfaced of Bachelor contestant Rachael Kirkconnell attending an Old South Antebellum party in 2018.
The public hit the finalist with heavy backlash over her previous decisions, and Chris jumped to her rescue.
In an interview with previous Bachelorette and the show’s first black female lead Rachel Lindsay, the host asked that viewers give the contestant more “grace” and “compassion.”
Many were furious, leading Chris to apologize and step down from his position of power after 20 years in the role.
Emmanuel Acho was asked to take his place for the After the Final Rose special, where Rachael further apologized for her indiscretions and shared a tearful moment with her ex and the season lead Matt James.
In speaking to Good Morning America about the issue, Chris confessed that he is an “imperfect man.”
Despite the host’s wishes to return to his post before the new season of the Bachelorette, ABC announced on March 12th that previous contestants Kaitlyn Bristowe and Tayshia Adams would be taking his place.
Chris Bukowski was confused by the choice, though he shared that he does believe the ladies “know what they’re doing.”
“I think they’re both great and I’m pretty interested in seeing how it goes.
“We’re so used to seeing Chris on the show [so] it’s going to be a completely different kind of element going into this season, but I’m excited for them,” he admitted.
The Bachelor pad star shared his belief that replacing Chris is simply “putting a band-aid on the situation.”
Emmanuel also shared his opinion on the situation, telling Stephen Colbert on The Late Show: “I don’t believe in cancel culture. … Should [Chris] return to that role? You have to decide what’s in the best interests of Chris Harrison?”
“What’s in the best interest of the show and the executive producers, but also, what’s in the best interest of the cast?
“They’re trying to commit to diversity. … What’s in the best interest of all three of those primary parties at play and make the decision that serves the most good.”
The news outlet previously confirmed that Chris had hired power attorney Bryan J. Freeman to defend him against ABC.
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