Chris Harrison is getting back into the TV hosting game with a new reality dating show.
“It’s time to help people find love again. Now casting,” Harrison, 54, wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, February 4, alongside a casting announcement for his upcoming, and currently unnamed, series.
The announcement featured a picture of Harrison in a suit calling for applicants seeking a “traditional marriage.”
“A prominent streaming service is casting single men and women (21+) who want a traditional, marriage-minded partnership built on commitment and shared values,” the post read. “We’re looking for singles who believe in clear roles, long-term commitment and building a life together — and who are dating with real intention.”
Harrison’s announcement earned a mixed reaction from fans in the comments section, with several users questioning the post’s phrasing.
“Traditional how? Location, era, or vibe? Is this a ‘1950s traditional’ or a ‘mutual respect and partnership’ traditional?” one user asked while another wrote, “‘Clear roles’ – what the heck does that mean? I want a partnership with someone who carries mine when I need it, and leans on me when he needs it. We work together to make our life amazing.”
While some were wary about the new show, others defended the concept of a traditional marriage.
“It’s so weird to me that people are so triggered by the concept of a traditional marriage,” one user replied. “Husband and wife loving each other, staying true to each other, having children, enjoying life together. Oh no, so terrible. We can’t have that”
Others expressed their excitement to see Harrison back on the screen since his exit from The Bachelor in June 2021.
“I stopped watching The Bachelor when you left. Can’t wait to watch this!” one fan gushed while another responded, “We’ve missed you! ❤️.”
During a February 2021 interview with Rachel Lindsay, the former Bachelorette asked Harrison for his thoughts about the backlash Rachael Kirkconnell received for wearing an antebellum-style dress to a college party. Harrison asked fans to have “grace” for Kirkconnell, who ended up winning Matt James’ season, before going on to rant about cancel culture. (James was the franchise’s first Black Bachelor.)
Harrison’s remarks downplaying Kirkconnell’s past racially insensitive actions received backlash, prompting him to issue a public apology.
“I stand against all forms of racism, and I am deeply sorry. I’m sorry to Rachel Lindsay, and I’m sorry to the Black community,” he said. “To anyone who is throwing hate toward Rachel Lindsay, please stop. It is unacceptable.”
Harrison also temporarily stepped down from his Bachelor hosting duties. However, he announced he was leaving the franchise for good four months later.
“I’m so grateful to Bachelor Nation for all of the memories we’ve made together,” Harrison said in a June 2021 statement. “While my two-decade journey is wrapping up, the friendships I’ve made will last a lifetime.”
Following Harrison’s exit, he was replaced by Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe for Katie Thurston’s season of The Bachelorette. In 2022, Jesse Palmer took over the role permanently.
Since then, Harrison has relocated to Austin, Texas with wife Lauren Zima.
