Which Celebrities Are Hosting 'Bachelor in Paradise'? David Spade

We’re in for a crazy summer! Chris Harrison is not returning to Bachelor in Paradise for season 7 after permanently stepping down. Instead, an array of celebrity hosts, including David Spade, Lil Jon and more will appear throughout the season.

The new season premieres on August 16, 2021, and will bring 23 singles to the beach in Mexico. Some of the week 1 cast members include Abigail Heringer (Matt James‘ season), Brendan Morais (Tayshia Adams‘ season), Ivan Hall (Tayshia’s season), Kelsey Weier (Peter Weber‘s season) and more. Of course, more Bachelor Nation alums will appear as the weeks go on to stir up a little drama.

Former host Chris also did not appear on season 17 of The Bachelorette with leading lady Katie Thurston. Instead, former Bachelorettes Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe stepped in to fill the role. It has been rumored that the reality babes are also in talks to host Michelle Young‘s upcoming season but nothing has been confirmed.

The new format for the reality dating shows came on the heels of Chris taking a hiatus from the franchise in February, which turned permanent four months later. The longtime host made problematic statements about the social media controversy surrounding Matt’s contestant Rachael Kirkconnell.

The drama first started when the Georgia native was accused via TikTok of mistreating a girl in high school for “liking Black guys.” Another video began circulating on the social media platform that alleged Rachael “liked” multiple racially insensitive Instagram posts, including one that featured the Confederate flag. Then, a photo surfaced that showed the reality star at an “Old South” antebellum-themed fraternity party in 2018.

Deal of the Day

This ‘Slimming’ Suit is Just $16 Today! View Deal

Before Rachael released a written apology on February 11, Chris appeared on Extra and was interviewed by former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay about the drama surrounding the franchise. He evoked the term “woke police” to talk about people who wanted to hold the contestant accountable and asked fans to offer her “grace” and “understanding.”

Chris released two written apologies about the situation before he announced in June that he would not return to the franchise.