They Got A Spade! David Spade To Take Over Hosting Duties On 'Bachelor In Paradise' As Chris Harrison Will Not Return: Report
It looks like we have a new host in paradise! Actor David Spade will be taking over hosting duties on The Bachelor In Paradise as Chris Harrison will not be returning for the next season, according to a new report.
With the veteran host embroiled in scandal and the producers wanting to give the show a funnier spin, the former SNL cast member, as well as a revolving door of guest hosts, will take over hosting duties and join the cast in the tropical locale.
Sources close to the show revealed that "Spade was picked because he's a Bachelor superfan who's built a cult following among fellow fans because of the hilarious commentary about the show that he doles out on his Instagram account."
The Grown Ups actor would reportedly fit a current void in the Bachelor franchise as "the producers want to put some fun in the show. They think it’s become too serious."
This news comes in the aftermath of Harrison announcing that he would be stepping back from the franchise that he has hosted since 2002 for an "unspecified amount of time," His departure follows his controversial defense of Bachelor contestant Rachael Kirkconnell, who was under fire when pictures of her attending an “Old South” plantation-themed party hit the internet back in February.
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In an interview with former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay, the veteran host stated, "We all need to have a little grace, a little understanding, a little compassion." regarding Kirkconnell.
"Because I have seen some stuff online — this judge, jury, executioner thing — where people are just tearing this girl's life apart and diving into, like, her parents, her parents' voting record," he explained, "It's unbelievably alarming to watch this. I haven't heard Rachael speak on this yet. And until I actually hear this woman have a chance to speak, who am I to say any of this?"
He continued via his Instagram adding "While I do not speak for Rachael Kirkconnell, my intentions were simply to ask for grace in offering her an opportunity to speak on her own behalf." He added, "What I now realize I have done is cause harm by wrongly speaking in a manner that perpetuates racism, and for that I am so deeply sorry."
As OK! previously reported, the 49 year-old television star did not return for the new season Bachelorette, which is currently filming. He was instead replaced by fan favorite contestants Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe.
Page Six was first to announce to news about Spade's new gig.
