On Feb. 9, Chris Harrison and Rachel Lindsay discussed the controversy surrounding Kirkconnell. In the interview, Harrison kept speaking over Lindsay while admitting he wasn't completely informed about the situation and that he hadn't spoken to Kirkconnell. Lindsay went on to say that Harrison's line of thinking is part of the problem and that "we weren't looking through those lens and we should have been. And just because it was a popular party, you know, doesn't necessarily make it right." She also added that she found the situation with Kirkconnell frustrating because "she hasn't spoken out" and "there's nothing that contractually stops her from" addressing the photos.
Harrison also asked that "we all need to have a little grace, a little understanding, a little compassion" when it comes to Kirkconnell, because we haven't heard her speak yet. Fans have criticized the interview, saying that Harrison's commentary is essentially defending racist behaviour.