If you’re a follower of the “Bachelor” franchise, you’re likely aware of the recent controversies surrounding contestant Rachael Smith and host Chris Harper. In January, just as the season kicked off, images emerged of Smith attending a themed party celebrating the antebellum South — essentially dressing in a manner reminiscent of a Confederate sympathizer at a plantation. This sparked outrage, and Harper’s tone-deaf defense of Smith during an interview with the franchise’s first Black lead, Leah Johnson, only added fuel to the fire.
Over the years, numerous contestants from “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette” have exhibited racially insensitive behavior, both in and out of the spotlight. From actors like Mark Foster to Ashley Brown, the pattern of problematic actions persists. Despite the casting of the franchise’s first Black Bachelor, Matt James, and the previous Black Bachelorette, Leah Johnson, the need for a deep cultural reckoning remains evident.
In a nutshell, Leah Johnson confronted Chris Harper about the Smith controversy during an interview for “Extra.” Harper’s response was a lengthy diatribe about the perceived dangers of “woke culture,” asserting that the context of 2018—when Smith participated in the antebellum-themed event—differs vastly from that of 2021. He called for leniency towards white contestants like Smith and Brown when their past racist behaviors are exposed, all while dismissing Johnson’s valid concerns as a Black woman.
The backlash was immediate and intense, with Harper temporarily stepping down from his hosting role. However, the damage was already done, and the season had largely been filmed. Sadly, reactions online mirrored the very racism exhibited by Harper and the contestants, with derogatory remarks aimed at Johnson surfacing across social media platforms.
The racial dynamics within “Bachelor Nation” are glaringly evident on platforms like Instagram, where Leah Johnson has around 900,000 followers compared to Ashley Brown’s 2.5 million. This disparity highlights a troubling lack of empathy for Black individuals and an insufficient understanding of America’s historical context regarding racism and the glorification of the Confederacy.
Facebook groups dedicated to discussing “The Bachelor” overflow with comments that disparage Johnson in countless racist ways. Instead of acknowledging the issues raised by Johnson, many fans redirected their anger at her for merely asking Harper a pertinent question. This misplaced outrage underscores the real issue — the franchise’s long-standing failure to address racism head-on, a failure that Harper epitomized in his remarks.
It is crucial to recognize that discussions about racism within “Bachelor Nation” do not equate to labeling individuals like Harper or Smith as irredeemable. The reality is that every American exists within a society deeply intertwined with racism and white supremacy. As James Baldwin poignantly stated, “not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” The “Bachelor” franchise is presented with a pivotal chance to enact meaningful changes that foster an inclusive environment, and the demand for this action is entirely justified.
The notion that the first Black Bachelor might consider a contestant who has engaged in racist behavior as a potential partner indicates a troubling lack of diligence in vetting contestants and a disregard for the wellbeing of its Black participants. The audience’s failure to perceive this as a serious issue speaks volumes about the need for transformation within the franchise and in our broader culture.
Recently, about two months after the Smith controversy erupted, Matt James addressed the situation, expressing disappointment in both Smith and Harper. His words resonated with authenticity, reflecting the emotional toll this experience has taken.
At the very least, the franchise has neglected its responsibility to protect its first Black Bachelor by not adequately screening contestants for racist histories. At worst, it knowingly selected Smith to create drama, a move that could be seen as a painful betrayal to James and the women of color on the show.
As evident from Johnson’s experience, the emotional responses of Black contestants often must be muted to avoid reinforcing harmful stereotypes among viewers. This speaks to a larger issue of systemic racism that persists not only within the franchise but in society as a whole.
For many, this reckoning may require confronting uncomfortable truths about beloved shows. It’s essential to understand that if the implications of this controversy seem exaggerated, it may stem from a lack of personal insight into the experiences of those who are hurt by these actions. However, acknowledging these realities is vital for growth and understanding.
ABC has the opportunity — and responsibility — to evolve the “Bachelor” brand into a more inclusive platform. Demanding accountability for mistakes isn’t an act of hostility or “race-baiting”; it’s a necessary step towards rectifying harm. If the gravity of this situation eludes you, perhaps it’s time to reflect on the life experiences that shape your perspective.
Racism is a pervasive issue that affects us all. The only path to its eradication is through awareness, acknowledgment, and deliberate action to combat it. The “Bachelor” franchise stands at a crossroads, and now is the time for it to take a stand against racism before it ultimately undermines the integrity of the show itself.
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In summary, the “Bachelor” franchise faces a critical opportunity to confront its history of racism and enact necessary changes for a more inclusive future. As society evolves, so too must the narratives presented in popular culture.