‘Bachelor in Paradise’: How Much Did David Spade Make per Episode Compared to Former Host Chris Harrison?
Chris Harrison has been known for all things Bachelor Nation for nearly two decades. The former host announced his exit earlier in 2021 after making insensitive remarks regarding contestant Rachael Kirkconnell’s social media posts. That means Bachelor in Paradise needed someone to step in for its season 7 premiere. ABC decided to introduce a string of guest hosts, including comedian David Spade. How much did Spade make for his cameo compared to longtime host Harrison?
‘Bachelor in Paradise’ guest host David Spade already has a high net worth
Spade debuted as the first guest host for Bachelor in Paradise Season 7 on Aug. 16. Other stars that will take the spot include Lil Jon, Titus Burgess, and Lance Bass. The longtime comedian likely isn’t doing the show for the money, as he’s been vocal about the franchise for years. So, what is he worth?
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Spade is worth a whopping $60 million. Much of his earnings stem from recurring TV roles on Just Shoot Me and Rules of Engagement, along with plenty of film roles alongside friend and Saturday Night Live alum Adam Sandler.
The star is also big on real estate investments, including multiple home purchases that have increased in worth since he first bought them. With his stand-up specials and now this Bachelor in Paradise gig, Spade is doing pretty well for himself. That said, what are his BiP earnings?
How much did Spade make per ‘Bachelor in Paradise’ episode?
ABC isn’t always transparent about how much they pay their stars or hosts. However, we can make an educated guess if we look at what’s been paid to contestants, former host Harrison, and leading titles Bachelor and Bachelorette.
According to Insider, Reality Steve revealed in 2017 that the cast of Bachelor in Paradise can take home anywhere from $7,000 to $15,000 per episode or per day. The outlet added that the stars aren’t offered a flat fee for their time unless they’re alumni. Things might’ve changed since then, but it’s a nice paycheck.
Becoming the Bachelor or Bachelorette offers a bigger payday, naturally. Those salaries range between $100,000 to $250,000 for one season. That’s not bad, considering they’re getting paid to find love. Contestants competing for love on either of those two shows don’t make any money.
Harrison — who became the face of the franchise for 19 years — made around $8 million per year. Upon his exit, Vulture reported his payout was around $10 million which is, “a combination of a $9 million exit settlement, plus remaining contractual fees.”
All of that said, it’s possible that Spade made around $300,000 to $500,000 per episode. When balanced with what the remaining three guest hosts will take home, it’s close to what Harrison might’ve made in one season for this franchise show alone.
What is former host Chris Harrison doing now?
Just prior to The Bachelorette‘s 2021 premiere, Harrison announced plans to step down from his longtime gig as host of the franchise shows.
“I’ve had a truly incredible run as host of The Bachelor franchise and now I’m excited to start a new chapter,” he wrote on Instagram. “I’m so grateful to Bachelor Nation for all of the memories we’ve made together. While my two-decade journey is wrapping up, the friendships I’ve made will last a lifetime.”
Months and an entire season of The Bachelorette have passed since Harrison’s departure, but according to a recent interview, he’s enjoying his time.
“We’re doing great, absolutely. Honestly, I wish everybody the best. I will say it’s been kind of nice to have, after 19 years, my Mondays back, including last night,” he told TMZ.
With Harrison enjoying his Mondays for good, we’re excited to see what the other guest hosts have in store for the remainder of BiP.
Bachelor in Paradise airs Monday nights on ABC.
