Best known for his role as the star in season 26 of The Bachelor and more recently for his involvement on Netflix's Perfect Match, Clayton Echard has once again become the subject of franchise rumors.
Fans and media sites have been speculating about whether Clayton would return to the position of giving away roses as The Bachelor prepares for its historic 30th season.
Although Clayton has made it apparent that these rumours aren't based on fact. The whispers acquired momentum because of his renewed prominence on reality TV.
“To tell you this, a little insider info, I’m not being talked to [for The Bachelor Season 30] at all. Nobody has called me,” he said. “I don’t think anybody wants to have that again.”
In addition to brushing off the rumors, his candid revelation highlights the enduring effects of his contentious tenure on The Bachelor. Clayton demonstrates an understanding of both his image and the franchise's need to move on by openly making fun of his own past. For the time being, it appears that any rose ceremonies he may have in the future will only exist in the fantasies of his admirers.
Perfect Match's Clayton Echard sets the record straight - Will he return to The Bachelor?
The cost of a comeback: Money and control factor in
Clayton did not completely rule out returning to the Bachelor house in the future, despite dismissing the notion that ABC had contacted him. He said that it would require a package deal that gives him some control behind the scenes and more accurately represents his worth.
“If they pay me well enough and give me some decision-making on who comes into the house,” he teased about any potential to return.
Perfect Match star reveals preference for fresh faces in the franchise
Clayton also disclosed that the network seemed to be turning its focus to a completely new kind of lead. He claims that casting directors are most interested in finding someone who has never worked on reality TV before.
The Perfect Match star disclosed, "They're also searching for someone who hasn't previously appeared on reality television."
This indicates a conscious effort to revitalize the program by going back to its origins, presenting viewers with a new character whose path feels fresh and untainted. Following years of returning to well-known characters, such a change could help regain viewer excitement for a series that feeds on novelty and anticipation.
The Perfect Match star is not currently in the running for Season 30 of The Bachelor. The lead role will probably go to a rookie rather than a well-known person unless ABC is prepared to compromise its casting philosophy and accommodate his demands.
Binge all the episodes of Perfect Match Season 3 on Netflix.