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This season of Bachelor In Paradise has felt more like sand in the eye than TV sunshine, with viewers turning off in droves.
And in the wake of the show’s dwindling ratings, a well-placed TV insider tells Woman’s Day much-loved host Osher Gunsberg is set to depart The Bachelor franchise and focus instead on his writing and popular self-titled podcast series.
“It’s a decision he’s not looking forward to making official, but he’s got so many side projects and a baby on the way with his wife [Audrey Griffen], it would just be a case of freeing up his plate,” reveals the insider.
“There’s no bad blood between him and the network – he’s had a fantastic ride but he feels now is the time.”
The TV host has had enough and is keen to peruse more personal projects. (Image: @osher_gunsberg/ Instagram)
Since 2013, Osher has played Cupid as the host of The Bachelor. He eventually took on spin-off series The Bachelorette and Bachelor In Paradise, but the show might be becoming too unsavoury for the mental health ambassador.
Last week, Osher took to Twitter to lash out against series villain Ivan Krslovic after fans demanded the controversial contestant be removed from the show for his sexist remarks about Tenille Favios.
“Listen Ivan,” Osher tweeted. “Respect what SHE wants mate.” He added, “SO Ivan can have his arms around TWO women – but if anyone looks at Tenille it’s not ok? C’mon pal. It’s time for us to sit down and have a chat.”
WATCH: Bachelor in Paradise’s Ivan loses it when he learns Tenille has her sights set on Nathan. Post continues below…
Osher publicly lashed out at BIP contestant Ivan Krslovic (pictured) after his controversial behaviour on the show. (Image: Channel Ten)
Some fans were quick to point out the 45-year-old’s comments were just the cherry on the top of a rather tumultuous season.
Following Osher’s remarks, contestant Bill Goldsmith launched a tirade against the producers and Ten.
Bill Goldsmith (pictured with Alex Nation) accused Bachelor in Paradise of editing him in a negative light. (Image: @bill.michael.goldsmith/ Instagram)
“Channel Ten and Warner bros have f–ked me over all for their ratings, and literally f–ked my reputation,” he wrote in response to a fan.
The reality star’s comments follow similar sentiments from Ten personality Kerri-Anne Kennerley, who also slammed Bachelor In Paradise, claiming producers had included a steamy lesbian kiss “just for ratings”, before calling the show “moronic”.
