Bachelor Host Chris Harrison On The Show’s Diversity: “A Concerted Effort Was Made”

Bachelor host Chris Harrison has seen a lot in his 16 years on this show, but he’s especially excited for Colton Underwood’s season.

In fact, the 26-year-old — whose season premieres tonight, January 7 — reminds Chris a bit of former Bachelor Sean Lowe, who is definitely a fan-favorite.

“He’s a really good man. He’s a gentleman; caring, loving and unbelievably generous. He’s a little bit like Sean Lowe in that he has a self-deprecating sense of humor and is goofy at times,” Chris recently told The Hollywood Reporter.

“But at the same time, he’s vulnerable. When you see such a big, strong guy — and he is a hulking man — break down in tears and really let it go, I had to give it up to him.”

He continued, “It’s not an easy thing to do. Whether it’s negative press or talk about his virginity, the guy has taken a lot.”

Chris is especially impressed with the former football player because of his young age.

“He’s 26 years old. I don’t know if I would have been prepared to emotionally handle all the crap he’s gotten.”

“That’s a lot for somebody to take and he’s handled it like a gentleman and has not lashed out.”

He continued, “That’s not an easy thing to do when you’re a competitive, proud, strong person in your 20s. So I give the guy a lot of credit.”

As for diversity in the cast this season, Chris believes the show is making strides to create a more inclusive group of women.

“You’ll see represented in this season women from all walks of life, from all parts of the country and with different ethnic backgrounds.”

“The effort that we have made in bringing more diversity to the show and having more people represented, I think we’ve done a very good job of that. Will we continue to do better and try to do better? Of course.”

He continued, “But I think a concerted effort was made so far. Obviously, people on social media and reporters can be the ultimate judge, but I’m pretty happy with the strides that have been made.”

Do you think The Bachelor has enough diversity? Let us know your thoughts!

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