No hard feelings? Chris Harrison addressed a variety of topics in Bachelor Nation including Matt James and Rachael Kirkconnell’s relationship — for the first time since his exit as the franchise’s host.
Bachelor’s Matt James and Rachael Kirkconnell: A Complete Timeline
“I wish everybody the best. I will say it’s been kind of nice to have, after 19 years, to have my Mondays back, including last night,” he told TMZ on Tuesday, July 27, before giving girlfriend Lauren Zima a shoutout for planning his 50th surprise party.
Harrison came under fire in February for his apparent defense of Bachelor season 25 contestant (and eventual winner) Kirkconnell, 24. Following his controversial comments about the Georgia native’s racially insensitive past, the Perfect Letter author sat out of James’ After the Final Rose special in March. While Kirkconnell and James, 29, split amid the controversy, Us Weekly confirmed in April that they were back together.
“You know what, I’m happy for them and I wish them all the best,” Harrison told TMZ about their reunion. “I hope they’re in love and I hope they do great.” Ahead of season 17 of The Bachelorette, which is currently airing, ABC announced Kaitlyn Bristowe and Tayshia Adams would guide Katie Thurston’s journey in Harrison’s absence. His exit was made permanent in June.
