AceShowbiz - Experts and insiders have raised concerns over the declining popularity of ABC's "The Bachelor" franchise. The latest season of "The Bachelorette", starring Jenn Tran, faced widespread criticism for casting questionable contestants and handling the relationship between Tran and Devin Strader.

"Producers seem to be making one bad decision after another," an anonymous source spilled. "The numbers continue to drop, and bosses are desperately trying to figure out how to climb out of this hole before the whole thing goes kaput!"

The insider pointed to declining ratings, which have been attributed to production decisions such as grasping at gimmicks and failing to engage younger viewers. Longtime fans have reportedly grown bored and disillusioned.

Another issue highlighted by fans is the franchise's handling of diversity issues. Despite firing Chris Harrison, the source alleges that the empire has not made significant progress in this area.

Compounding the franchise's woes, the selection of Zach Shallcross as the lead for the current season of "The Bachelor" has failed to generate significant interest among viewers. "With Zach, execs fear they really made the wrong choice because there haven't been any indicators people care," a source stated.

Record-low ratings for Shallcross's premiere have further escalated concerns about the franchise's future. Despite Shallcross's pleas for fans to continue tuning in, a Rolling Stone review described the premiere as "so boring" that they "literally fell asleep."