The producers of The Bachelor are opening up about the show’s past lack of racial diversity and the steps they’re taking to address it. In a recent interview, executive producers Claire Freeland and Bennett Graebner acknowledged the franchise’s “inexcusable” failure to represent people of color, particularly the absence of a Black lead for 15 years.

Graebner expressed regret over the franchise’s shortcomings, stating, “It’s hard to admit, but people of color didn’t see themselves represented, and they didn’t feel that The Bachelor was a safe space.” He also took responsibility for the mishandling of Matt James’ season, the first to feature a Black lead, which was marred by controversy surrounding the winner, Rachael Kirkconnell, and her attendance at an antebellum-themed party. “We let Matt down,” Graebner admitted, calling the finale “the darkest day” in the franchise’s history.

The producers also addressed the backlash the show received for its handling of the situation, which led to the departure of longtime host Chris Harrison. Looking ahead, they emphasized their commitment to improving representation, particularly for the Asian community, as the franchise prepares to introduce its first Asian lead, Jenn Tran, in the upcoming season of The Bachelorette.

“We did not protect [Matt James] as we should have,” Graebner said, adding that the finale of his season was “a day where we saw a great Black man burdened and overwhelmed by issues of racism.” Both producers agreed that it is a “priority” to cast another Black lead in the future and to learn from the mistakes made during James’ season.

As the franchise moves forward, it is taking steps to improve representation and create a more inclusive environment. With the introduction of Jenn Tran, the first Asian lead, the producers hope to showcase a diverse range of stories and experiences. “We didn’t do what we needed to do in terms of Asian representation,” Graebner admitted. “Our hope is that [Jenn Tran] will show the Asian community that this is a safe space.”

Freeland emphasized the importance of allowing Tran to be her “most authentic self” on the show, stating that they encouraged her to speak about her Vietnamese culture. As the franchise continues to evolve, the producers are committed to creating a more diverse and inclusive environment, both on-screen and off-screen, to better reflect the world we live in.