Fox News Media buys ABC ad space for Chris Harrison’s The Vow

Warner Bros Legal Threat Contrasts With Fox Media Buy On ABC Stations

Former reality television host Chris Harrison is returning to the dating genre with a new program on Fox Nation called “The Vow,” setting up a direct commercial clash with his former home at ABC. USA Today reported that Fox News Media purchased ad space to air promotional spots for the upcoming streaming series directly on local ABC stations across the country during the week of the show’s premiere. The counter-programming move follows an escalating legal dispute between Warner Bros. TV and Fox News Media over similarities between the new production and the long-running “The Bachelor” franchise.

“The Vow,” which premieres on November 11, features ten contestants competing for Oregon mortgage loan officer Jace Cates. Harrison hosts the streaming program and serves as an executive producer alongside his wife, entertainment correspondent Lauren Zima. Promotional material released on October 22 introduced viewers to the cast, including former “Bachelor” and “Bachelor in Paradise” contestant Kylee Russell.

Cease-And-Desist Letters Meet Defiant Media Buys

The conflict escalated in September when Warner Bros. TV issued a cease-and-desist letter to Fox News Media and Lionsgate after “The Vow” released a teaser featuring Harrison stepping over a rose alongside the tagline, “Roses fade, true love lasts forever.” Ahassim Rashid, vice president of anti-piracy and brand protection at Warner Bros., characterized the program as a direct copy of “The Bachelor.”

Fox News Media rejected the allegations in a response from executive vice president and general counsel Katherine Moran Meeks, who argued that rose petals belong to the broader romance genre rather than any single network’s intellectual property. Meeks further alleged that Warner Bros. targeted Harrison in a malicious and vindictive manner. Harrison told USA Today that the legal action feels personal, pointing out that numerous other relationship shows have launched since his departure without facing similar scrutiny.

Harrison Left The Bachelor After Defending Rachael Kirkconnell

Harrison’s departure from ABC’s “The Bachelor” in 2021 followed a prominent controversy during the 25th season of the show. The longtime host defended contestant Rachael Kirkconnell after past social media activity surfaced showing Kirkconnell liking Confederate flag-related content and attending an Antebellum-themed fraternity formal in 2018. Harrison addressed the controversy during an interview with Rachel Lindsay on “Extra.” Kirkconnell subsequently apologized, and though she received the final rose from lead Matt James, the couple announced their separation in January 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Vow And The Legal Dispute

When does The Vow premiere on Fox Nation?

The new dating series premieres on November 11, featuring host Chris Harrison and 10 contestants competing for Oregon mortgage loan officer Jace Cates, according to USA Today.

What specific legal action did Warner Bros. take against Fox News Media?

Ahassim Rashid, vice president of anti-piracy and brand protection at Warner Bros., sent a cease-and-desist letter in September 2026 alleging that “The Vow” is a direct copy of “The Bachelor” franchise.

How is Fox News Media promoting the new show?

As part of a targeted media buy reported by USA Today, promotional spots for “The Vow” are scheduled to air on local ABC stations across the country during the show’s premiere week.