'Bachelorette' Finalist Erich Schwer Apologizes for Blackface Photo by H.S.

"Bachelorette" contestant Erich Schwer - the last remaining contestant for Gabby Windey - admits to wearing blackface as part of a high school Halloween costume...saying he deeply regrets his actions.

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An old yearbook photo of Schwer made the rounds on social media this week...showing him dressed as Jimi Hendrix, wearing dark makeup and an Afro wig.

The 29-year-old New Jersey real estate analyst is now speaking out about his costume choice... saying he wholeheartedly apologizes for what he thought was a gesture of love for the artist, but admits that it only showed ignorance.

“I was naive about the hurtful implications of my actions for the black community and my loved ones, and I will forever regret my offensive and damaging behavior,” Schwer said Thursday.

"I am deeply ashamed of my actions and understand that my apology is only the first step in taking responsibility."

Schwer is Gabby's last chance for love in this season of the dating show...after she splits with Johnny and Jason during the Fantasy Suite episode.

This isn't the first controversy surrounding the franchise race - 'Bachelor' contestant Rachel Kirkconnell has come under fire for attending a pre-war plantation-themed event at the university ...and later admitted she was wrong.