Chris Harrison expresses “relief” regarding his final departure from The Bachelor.
Harrison, age 54, concluded his long-held position as the host of the ABC dating series in June of 2021, following a controversy. He had been the show’s host for a total of 19 years. In a recent interview featured in People on Monday, October 27, he looked back on his departure, stating, “It feels amazing, and I appreciate you asking that question because I wasn’t sure how it would feel.”
Since then, Harrison has relocated from Los Angeles to Austin, Texas, and has married Entertainment Tonight alum Lauren Zima. (The couple is set to commemorate their second wedding anniversary this November.)
“When you’re involved in something so popular worldwide for two decades, there’s a certain level of pressure. You’re constantly under a spotlight and microscope, often without even realizing it until you step away from that routine,” Harrison shared with People.
Initially, transitioning from hosting The Bachelor and The Bachelorette — which was a demanding, full-time commitment — to having no involvement in the franchise presented some challenges.
“There was a sense of unease when I initially left, with thoughts like, ‘I need to get back on track, I need to return to work,’ or… ,” Harrison recounted.
“But then,” he continued, “I took a moment to breathe and relax. Falling in love and moving to Austin played significant roles in alleviating that stress and making me realize there’s a vast world of opportunities out there. It’s been a refreshing and wonderful break.”
Harrison referred to Austin as “the new Hollywood,” emphasizing that the city “reminds [him] of the original Hollywood ethos, where anything is achievable if everyone approaches it with sincerity, an open mind, and a collaborative spirit to create something enjoyable.”
Harrison hinted at an upcoming collaboration with Zima, age 37.
“For the first time in a while, I feel energized to jump back into creative work with this incredible woman,” he expressed. “We both have an exciting next chapter on the horizon that we can’t wait to share.”
Harrison and Zima’s relationship began in 2018 after she reached out to him via DM, sensing a special “vibe.” After five years and a wedding, he started “The Most Dramatic Podcast Ever” with his wife’s participation.
During the third episode in 2023, Zima revealed that “people in the industry” suggested she should end her relationship with Harrison during his professional separation from the Bachelor franchise.
“I’ve been divorced before,” she mentioned at the time. “In my view, everyone is prone to mistakes. … What matters is how you address them. I never considered breaking up with Chris. From the outset, Chris recognized his imperfections, acknowledged his error, and understood that he had caused hurt, for which he was deeply sorry.”
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