Exclusive
With Chris Harrison step aside forwards Matt JamesAfter the Final Rose ceremony, it is in the air who will fill their shoes – but we learned it might be someone from outside the franchise.
Sources directly familiar with the production tell TMZ … ABC seems to be looking for someone not part of the ‘Bachelor’ nation to replace Harrison for the fast-approaching shoot. That means no former bachelors, bachelors, or their bachelors … no matter how popular they are.
Essentially, our sources say producers now seem to have their sights on someone with no affiliation to the series – but who is still part of ABC’s talent pool. That said, they ran to one alum.
Were told Rachel Lindsay – the first black ‘Bachelorette’ – was asked to take up the robe, but she refused. She has publicly suggested that they consider FS1 as a sports analyst Emmanuel I think – who is not only black, but also outspoken about race issues. Let’s face it, that becomes a major topic when cameras roll for ‘ATFR’.
Despite Rachel’s approval, Emmanuel’s representative tells us that no one has contacted them yet.
Fans are also crying out Tayshia Adams – the second Black ‘Bachelorette’ ever – to take the place of Harrison. She’s been singing about the racist controversy on the show lately, but producers haven’t overheard her
It’s unclear if ABC is specifically looking for a POC for this gig – but all signs seem to indicate that this is highly considered. It’s gonna be a sensitive episode … not just because of it the consequences of Harrison, but a possible showdown between Matt and Rachael Kirkconnell, said to be the winner.
Matt has already touched the range of emotions he feels now – and only time will tell how it plays out in front of a live audience. Stay tuned …