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Chris Harrison replaced for 'Bachelor in Paradise' by celebrity guest hosts, including David Spade

By Megan Armstrong | Last updated 6/3/21

Chris Harrison will have this summer off.

Variety first reported Wednesday that Harrison "will sit out" his usual hosting duties for Bachelor in Paradise. Elizabeth Wagmeister provided more context:

"The role will be filed by celebrity comedians—including David Spade—who will serve as guest hosts, according to those with knowledge of the plans. As of Wednesday, offers to celebrity talent were still being considered and Spade’s deal was the only one to have closed. Unlike the upcoming season of The Bachelorette which premieres next week, Bachelor in Paradise will not be hosted by Bachelor Nation alums."

Harrison has been the lone host of The Bachelor franchise, including The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise, since its 2002 debut. The 49-year-old came under fire in early February, as the 25th Bachelor season was airing, for racially insensitive comments made during an interview with former Bachelorette lead Rachel Lindsay:

Harrison immediately posted an apology the next day, then three days later, he announced that he would "be stepping aside for a period of time":

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Harrison also appeared on Good Morning America and was interviewed by Michael Strahan in early March, though Strahan was not impressed with Harrison's "surface response."

The upcoming season of The Bachelorette, premiering Monday, will feature Katie Thurston as its lead and Bachelor franchise alums Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe as co-hosts.

As for Bachelor in Paradise, Spade seemingly confirmed the news by re-sharing other people's reactions into his Instagram Story.

The 56-year-old actor, comedian and host is reputed as a superfan because of his uproarious weekly recap commentary on Instagram and on his since-canceled talk show Lights Out with David Spade.