Rachel Lindsay is speaking out after Chris Harrison confirmed that he would exit the "Bachelor" franchise.
In an interview with Extra, Lindsay shared that she was surprised that Harrison was officially not coming back after announcing that he was temporarily stepping down, according to People.
"I wasn't expecting for it to happen, not after the announcement," the 36-year-old said.
The first Black "Bachelorette" star believes that fans of the show can only "speculate" why Harrison decided to leave.
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"I think several past contestants coming forward and saying they didn't want him to be part of Paradise. I think Katie Thurston, her very last tweet before she went to film her season was that Chris needed to step away," Lindsay added. "I think that, coupled with the interview that happened on this very stage, maybe led to him not coming back."
After 19 years of hosting the show, Harrison will reportedly receive a payout to step away and keep quiet about his sudden departure, according to Deadline.
Harrison took to Instagram to share the news. He captioned a post that read, "I've had a truly incredible run as host of The Bachelor franchise and now I'm excited to start a new chapter. I'm so grateful to Bachelor Nation for all of the memories we've made together. While my two-decade journey is wrapping up, the friendships I've made will last a lifetime."
The news comes after sources confirmed to Variety and People that Harrison would be stepping away from his role as host of "Bachelor in Paradise.”
As for who will be Harrison's replacement, it was announced that a revolving door of guest hosts would take over as host of the show. One of the replacements reportedly being considered is actor and comedian David Spade.
Harrison was accused of defending past racist social media posts from recent "Bachelor" contestant Rachael Kirkconnell.
Photos of Kirkconnell showed her attending an antebellum plantation-themed college party in 2018. Harrison has since apologized for defending Kirconnell, admitting, "I am not a perfect person."
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Lindsay called out Harrison for his comments about contestant Rachael Kirkconnell's past racist actions. During an interview with Lindsay, Harrison said everyone should have "a little grace, a little understanding, a little compassion" for Kirkconnell, seen in photos depicting racist themes.
While talking to "Extra" host Billy Bush, Lindsay said she thinks it was the "right decision" for Harrison to step aside from being the host for the time being.
The 35-year-old star also expressed how she was "stunned" after her shocking interview with Harrison.
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