"The Bachelor' Producers Stunned by Questions on Franchise's Race Issues"

During a Television Critics Association panel, 'Bachelor' producers froze when asked about the franchise's handling of racial issues, with two newcomers and a veteran remaining silent for around 10 seconds when questioned about former star Rachel Lindsay and Matt James' criticisms. The producers later emphasized their focus on improving representation within the franchise, but their failure to properly respond to the long-standing issue left reporters and TCA members surprised. The panel also featured discussions about diversity in other shows, including the announcement of 'The Golden Bachelorette' and comments from the new Jeopardy showrunner defending the show's duty to represent diversity.