Channel 10 executive admits the network has a 'no diversity, no commission' policy - as they defend queer and Indigenous Bachelorette season despite disastrous ratings

The latest season of The Bachelorette has tanked in the ratings, even though it is the most diverse and inclusive season in the franchise's history.

But despite the poor viewing figures, executives at Channel 10's parent company are standing by their editorial decision to prioritise inclusivity at all costs.

Jarrod Villani, the Executive Vice President of ViacomCBS ANZ, told TV Tonight that ViacomCBS has a strict policy of 'no diversity, no commission'. 

This year's season of The Bachelorette stars Brooke Blurton, who is Indigenous and bisexual, and includes both male and female contestants - a world-first for the Bachelor franchise.

'I think that’s a reflection of the decision taken around Brooke and The Bachelorette,' Mr Villani explained. 

'It’s led from the very top of our organisation across the globe,' he continued.

'You won’t have a conversation with anyone from ViacomCBS - irrespective of where we’re at in the world - that doesn’t include a focus on diversity and inclusion.'

Mr Villani also said 2021 was the 'right time' for a bisexual Bachelorette. 

'It might have been harder earlier, I think, but given the environment we're in now, and given Australians' expectations, I think it's the right time,' he said.

'More importantly, [Brooke] is the right person, because that is really who she is. I think people know that and they believe her.'

Ratings for this season of The Bachelorette have gone from bad to worse.

But Channel 10 is still insisting it is the 'most critically acclaimed' season ever despite becoming the lowest rated in the history of the franchise.

In a promo released on Sunday, a voiceover says: 'It's the most critically acclaimed series of The Bachelorette ever.'

It comes after the second episode of The Bachelorette on Thursday night marked a depressing new low for the dating series.

The show drew just 345,000 metro viewers - 52,000 less than its premiere.

The Bachelorette was beaten in the ratings by Seven's Home and Away and The Chase Australia and Nine programs RBT, Millionaire Hot Seat and Paramedics.