By Mark Gray
6:49pm PDT, Jun 9, 2021
The stunning announcement that Chris Harrison is leaving the franchise that made him a household name sparked a variety of reactions on social media. On June 8, Chris took to Instagram to break his silence about departing Bachelor Nation after 19 years. "I've had a truly incredible run as host of the 'Bachelor' franchise and now I'm excited to start a new chapter," he wrote. "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." Following his post, many of the most famous names from Bachelor Nation and its fandom weighed in… On the June 8 episode of "Extra," former "The Bachelor" star Rachel Lindsay told host Billy Bush, "I wasn't expecting for it to happen, not after the announcement," referring to Chris Harrison's February announcement that he was temporarily stepping down from the franchise. That move came after he defended season 25 "The Bachelor" contestant Rachael Kirkconnell — who admitted to past racist actions and behavior — in an interview with Rachel. The attorney made clear she believes some Bachelor Nation members' feelings could be a factor in Chris's exit. "I think several past contestants coming forward and saying they didn't want him to be part of '[Bachelor in] Paradise' [this summer]. I think [new season 17 'The Bachelorette' star] Katie Thurston, her very last tweet before she went to film her season was that Chris needed to step away," Rachel added. "I think that, coupled with the interview that happened on this very stage, maybe led to him not coming back."
Keep reading to see what more stars had to say...
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"Thank you for all of your mentorship and most importantly friendship from day 1 of meeting you on the show to now. Very thankful for that" –Jason Tartick
"Love you Chris. Thank you for your friendship" –Colton Underwood
"Wishing you the best in your next chapters, Chris. So much love" –Becca Kufrin
"Love you brotha. On to bigger and better things" –Arie Luyendyk Jr.
"I hope you were on a yacht in the South of France when you wrote this. You deserve it! Can't wait to see what's next and sending you a big hug" –Emily Maynard Johnson
"Wishing you the best in your next chapter" –Desiree (Hartsock) Siegfried
"You made that show! Congrats on a fantastic run! You're a class act always." –Rob Riggle
"It will never be the same. Love you buddy," Sean Lowe commented. His wife, Catherine Lowe, added, "Love you @chrisbharrison ❤️ you have a lot to be proud about. Can't wait to support you in your next endeavors :)"
"@chrisbharrison 👏👏👏" –Andrew Firestone
"You will be missed Chris!" –Kelley Flanagan
"Love you my friend" — JoJo Fletcher
"Congrats on the run buddy. The general public doesn't have any idea how much you helped us cast members deal with the behind the scenes of the TV world. Looking forward to seeing you soon." –Jason Mesnick
"It will never be the same. Truly the end of an era. Thank you for all the years of hard work and love you put into the show. I have a lump in my throat writing this. Can't wait to see your next move. I love you." –Ashley Iaconetti Haibon
"You are incredible Harrison. What a loss for the show. Many people won't be watching anymore. Myself included. One thing I know is that you will rise above all of this! Can't wait to see what is next for you! I am proud to call you my friend." –Michelle Money
"Won't be the same with you!" –Tanner Tolbert
"Hell of a run my friend," Jason Kennedy commented. His wife, Lauren, added, "You're the best, Chris! We are so grateful for you and excited to see what's ahead!"
"[Heart] you" –J.P. Rosenbaum
"You've been a good friend & sounding board to so many of us over the years @chrisbharrison. What a long strange trip it's been…!" –Bob Guiney
"Congratulations on an amazing 2 decade run. You are the best there is my friend. Here's to new adventures." –Debbie Matenopoulos
"Thanks for all the memories Chris. For me you were always a familiar and comforting presence over my last 10 years of being part of this franchise. Thanks for being a friend and I'm looking forward to seeing what you do next" –Chris Bukowski
"Ahh love you sweet friend ❤️❤️ you are an icon" –Gretchen Rossi
