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Chris Harrison

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Chris Harrison
NameChris Harrison
CaptionHarrison in 2013
Birth date26 July 1971
Birth placeDallas, Texas, U.S.
OccupationTelevision host, producer
Years active1993–present
SpouseGwen Harrison, 1993, 2012

Chris Harrison is an American television host and producer best known for his long-running role as the host of ABC's popular reality dating shows, ''The Bachelor'' franchise. He served as the primary host and guiding presence for the flagship series ''The Bachelor'' and its spin-offs, including ''The Bachelorette'' and ''Bachelor in Paradise'', from their inception in 2002 until 2021. His tenure made him a central figure in reality television and a recognizable personality across network television.

Early Life and Education

Born in Dallas, Texas, he attended Lake Highlands High School before pursuing higher education at Oklahoma City University. At the university, he played collegiate soccer and initially studied sports medicine, later graduating with a degree in journalism and mass communication. His early career involved work in local television news in Oklahoma City, including a stint as a sports anchor for KOCO-TV, which provided foundational experience in broadcast media.

Career

His broadcasting career began in earnest with hosting roles on Great American Country and the HGTV program Designers' Challenge. His big break came in 2002 when he was selected by executive producer Mike Fleiss to host the second season of ''The Bachelor'' on ABC. This role expanded as the franchise grew, leading him to host all related series and specials, including ''The Bachelorette'', Bachelor Pad, and ''Bachelor in Paradise''. Beyond the franchise, he hosted shows like The Disney Family Singalong and the Miss America pageant, and made guest appearances on series such as ''Sabrina the Teenage Witch'' and ''Arrested Development''.

The Bachelor and The Bachelorette

As the host of ''The Bachelor'' franchise, he became synonymous with the series' format, famously delivering the phrase "this is the final rose tonight" during rose ceremonys. He played a key role in mediating conversations during The Women Tell All and After the Final Rose specials, interviewing participants about their journeys and conflicts. His steady presence across hundreds of episodes provided a narrative continuity for the franchise, which became a cornerstone of ABC's programming and a major influence on reality television culture.

Controversies

In February 2021, he faced significant backlash following an interview on ''Extra'' with former ''Bachelorette'' contestant Rachel Lindsay, where he defended a contestant's past racially insensitive behavior. The interview sparked widespread criticism from fans, alumni of the franchise, and advocacy groups like the NAACP, leading to calls for his removal. He subsequently issued two apologies and temporarily stepped aside from hosting the After the Final Rose special for season 25 of ''The Bachelor''. In June 2021, Warner Bros. and ABC announced he would not return as host, ending his nearly two-decade tenure; he was later succeeded by Jesse Palmer.

Personal Life

He was married to Gwen Harrison from 1993 until their divorce in 2012; the couple has two children. He has been in a relationship with Lauren Zima, a correspondent for Entertainment Tonight, since 2018. An avid sports fan, he has participated in celebrity golf tournaments and is a supporter of NFL and MLS teams. He has also been involved in various charitable endeavors, including work with the American Red Cross.

Filmography

{| class="wikitable" |- ! Year ! Title ! Role ! Notes |- | 2002–2021 | ''The Bachelor'' | Host | Also consulting producer |- | 2003–2021 | ''The Bachelorette'' | Host | Also consulting producer |- | 2014–2021 | ''Bachelor in Paradise'' | Host | Also executive producer |- | 2011 | Bachelor Pad | Host | |- | 2019–2020 | The Disney Family Singalong | Host | |- | 2019 | ''Who Wants to Be a Millionaire'' | Guest Host | 3 episodes |- | 2011 | Miss America | Host | With Brooke Burke |}

Category:American television hosts Category:American game show hosts Category:1971 births Category:Living people