ABC producers will not be accepting Wells Adams' rose when it comes to his pitch at becoming the new official host of The Bachelor. The 37-year-old reality star was first introduced to Bachelor Nation when he appeared on the 12th season of The Bachelorette. Though he didn't capture the heart of JoJo Fletcher, he did make a lasting impression on viewers. Now that Wells is officially off the market with plans to marry Modern Family's Sarah Hyland any moment now, he's unable to compete anywhere within the franchise. That said, producers turned his well-spoken radio DJ experience into a small broadcast role by hiring Wells as the Bachelor In Paradise bartender.
Since then, there was trouble in ABC paradise when former contestant Rachael Kirkconnell's old photos at an Old South, plantation-themed fraternity party resurfaced last year. Eagle-eyed fans also noticed her Instagram handle liking posts containing the Confederate flag. Rachael has since apologized and re-established her relationship with Matt James, citing her former behavior as ignorant and racist. Responding to the allegations, longtime host Chris Harrison told former Bachelorette and current Extra correspondent Rachel Lindsay during an interview that the photos in question were not offensive when they were taken in 2018. In wake of the controversy, Chris apologized and has fully departed the franchise. Now that the spot has opened up, Wells has made it clear that he's vying for the full-time role. Though ABC hasn't made an official announcement just yet, they have promoted the bartender to master of ceremonies for the current season.
Now that The Bachelor season 26 is gearing up for production, Reality Steve is sharing new insight on the future of the franchise. According to the reporter, ABC is still searching for a permanent host to take the helm, and the signs aren't pointing towards the beloved Bachelor Nation personality. "Clayton's season begins filming on Tuesday night at the mansion," he tweeted. "Also, I don't know who the new host is yet, but I'm hearing now that it's NOT Wells. As reported last month, they are looking for a new, permanent, solo host." Wells recently told an ABC News affiliate that he'd do whatever it took to convince producers and viewers he's perfect for the role.
Additionally, Reality Steve spilled the beans on what's already being filmed ahead of the limos rolling up to the mansion for what will be the premiere episode. According to the new video that he posted on Twitter, Clayton has been busy filming promo spots for his rumored season in his hometown of Eureka, Missouri. The reporter went on to confirm that hometown dates will be making a comeback in Michelle Young's upcoming season of the franchise, and will continue in Clayton's season.
While Reality Steve's news updates are helpful and usually correct, they are not confirmed by the network and, until an official announcement is made, things can quickly change. The news of a new host for The Bachelor seems to be upsetting a lot of fans, as they were really gunning to see more of Wells on their TV screens. It's just a matter of time before Bachelor Nation finds out if the new, permanent host will be someone who is just as beloved or someone new entirely.
Sources: Reality Steve/Twitter, ABC News