“The Bachelor” has been named in place of exiled host Chris Harrison.
Former “The Bachelor” star Jesse Palmer will take up hosting duties for the 26th season, which airs in 2022. His participation in the upcoming season is yet to be determined.
“For more than 20 years, ‘The Bachelor’ has brought to the world dozens of unforgettable love stories, including, at one time, my own,” Palmer said in a statement.
He added: “Falling in love is the greatest gift of my life and I am humbled by the opportunity to return as a host this season. His journey.”
Palmer has had a friendly relationship with Disney since starring in “The Bachelor” in 2004. He has previously hosted ABC’s “The Proposal” and has been a contributor to the ABC News Platform, including “Good Morning America.”
In addition, he has hosted several holiday specials for Disney Park and has been instrumental in the presentation of ABC’s NFL Draft.
In 2007 he began working as an analyst at ESPN. On Tuesday, it was announced that he has extended his contract with the network for the 2021-2022 college football season.
Prior to working in television, Palmer played for the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers and played for some time in the Canadian Football League.
He served as the franchise’s fifth bachelor and was the franchise’s first non-American star as a Canadian, as well as the youngest of just 25 years. He is now 42.
His season didn’t end with a proposal, but contestant Jessica Bolin left as the winner. The two will split shortly after the finale airs.
Palmer is currently only hosting the upcoming 26th season of “The Bachelor”, although insiders have told Variety that the studio is looking to include him in future seasons of “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelor”.
Cameras began installing for its first season on Tuesday evening.
In addition, the outlet reported that the hosting format for the future season of “Bachelor in Paradise” is still in the air. Fans and critics have kindly taken to the touring roster of guest hosts including David Spad, Lil John and more.
“The Bachelorette” will return in October. Taishia Adams and Caitlin Bristow have resumed hosting duties since last year.
Harrison dropped the “bachelor” franchise because he defended photographs of a former contestant who was considered racist by many. They have hosted the franchise since early 2002.