The Bachelorette producer defends casting TWO white women this season

The new season of The Bachelorette came under fire recently, as fans slammed the decision to cast two white women in a series already lacking ethic diversity.

But on Tuesday, the show’s executive producer Hilary Innes defended having Elly and Becky Miles as the franchise’s first ‘sister Bachelorettes’. 

Speaking to B&T, Ms Innes said: ‘It was more about the strength of the bond with family and friendship that pushed it through for us.’

She added that diversity is the ‘first thing’ producers look for during casting, but said it’s difficult to find a lead because there’s so many boxes that need ticking.

‘We’ve gone through returners, we’ve gone to people with profile, we’ve gone for people who have that “X-factor”. But this year, Elly bringing her sister along was a winning combination,’ Ms Innes said.

Former Bachelorettes include Sam Frost, Ali Oetjen, Sophie Monk, Georgia Love and Angie Kent – all of whom are white women. 

Ms Innes continued: ‘Looking to the future, it’s definitely something that’s an incredible priority for us to make sure that we do look and try to be representative.’

She added that while The Bachelorette tries to be diverse with its male contestants, producers can only work with the ‘people that apply’.

Back in July, Bachelor in Paradise star Mary Viturino was one of many who called out the lack of diversity in the Australian version of the dating franchise.

The 32-year-old reality star shared photos to Instagram of the former and current Bachelorettes, and claimed that Channel 10 had missed an opportunity to cast someone racially diverse by choosing Elly and Becky.

‘While every single one of these women are beautiful, inspiring and deserving to find love, I was hoping Bachelorette would listened to the Australian public – who have been asking for more diversity,’ Mary wrote.

‘Especially when there are some boss indigenous past contestants like Brooke Blurton and Renee Barrett to choose from,’ she added.

Furious fans were also quick to lash out after the first official picture of the men vying for Elly and Becky’s hearts was released last week.

‘The diversity is astounding on this season,’ one viewer raged. ‘Well done for taking people’s concerns seriously.’

‘Another season of white dudes who all look the same and have the personality of wonder bread! Yay!’ a second added.

The Bachelorette premieres Wednesday at 7:30pm on Channel 10