‘Bachelor’ Outsider wanted to replace Chris Harrison for ‘ATFR’ hosting

With Chris Harrison step aside for Matt James‘After the final rose ceremony, it’s in the air who’s going to perfect his shoes – but we learned that it could be someone outside the franchise.

Sources directly familiar with the production tell TMZ … ABC seems to be looking for someone who is not part of ‘Bachelor’ to replace Harrison for the fast-paced recording. That means no ex-bachelors, bachelors or their boyfriends … no matter how popular they are.

In essence, our sources say that it looks like producers now want to focus on someone without ties to the series – but who is still part of ABC’s talent pool. That said, they did make a turn at one alum.

We are told Rachel Lindsay – the first black ‘Bachelorette’ – was asked to pick up the cloak, but she refused. She has publicly suggested that they consider the FS1 sports analyst Emmanuel Acho – which is not only black, but also outspoken on issues of race. Let’s be honest, this is going to be an important topic as cameras for ‘ATFR’ roll.

Despite Rachel’s endorsement, Emmanuel’s representative says no one has reached out to them yet.

Fans also complained about Tayshia Adams – the everyday Black ‘Bachelorette’ – to perform in Harrison’s place. She has recently spoken out about the program’s racism controversy, but producers have not tapped her.

It is unclear if ABC specifically wants to look for a POC for this concert, but all indications are that it is being considered a lot. This will be a sensitive episode … not just because of the fallout from Harrison, but faces a potential confrontation between Matt and Rachael Kirkconnell, who is rumored to be the winner.