Season 25 of “The Bachelor” should have been a triumph for everyone involved.
The field of women vying for his heart was more diverse than in previous seasons.
Fans were looking forward to a new era.
And then, well … the season was history-making in a way that no one expected.
Shortly after the premiere, unpleasant rumors began to swirl around contestantRachael Kirkconnell.
Former Black women contestants, includingRachel Lindsay, called out the show for its lack of diversity and awareness.
The consequences made headlines for weeks and polarized viewers who were already divided over the 2020 racial protests.
Harrison apologized for his condescending behavior toward Lindsay, and shortly afterward left the show.
James proposed to Kirkconnell, then later admitted he was having second thoughts.
Kirkconnell went on a social media blackout while she reflected on the whole experience.
Meanwhile, more of her past online actions continued to haunt her.
