The Golden Bachelorette
September 18, 2024
As I did when I introduced you to Gerry Turner, our first “Golden Bachelor,” and the collection of lovely women who signed up to date him on a reality TV show, I am approaching this exercise with a certain degree of gentleness. This isn’t going to be about roasting these men: these are all mature adults who are looking to start a new chapter late in life — a goal that is genuinely brave and admirable. Instead, I am interested in trying to evaluate how well these men will fit into Joan’s life.
And here’s the part where I make a bunch of broad generalizations: but when you reach a certain age, say between the ages of 57-69, and you’ve had kids and those kids are now having kids, or you’ve finally retired and you’ve moved to that place on the shore you’ve always dreamed about where you can golf or sail or play pickleball all day or whatever, you might not be willing to upend all of that to move to some Baltimore suburb to be near a woman you met on TV.
And let’s be clear, Joan isn’t going anywhere. These men are going to have to come to her. This was from her bio during Gerry’s season:
Joan is proud of herself for starting a new career in this chapter of life and for how resilient she’s been through many unexpected life changes. When she’s not working, Joan loves listening to Elton John, hanging with her dog, and cooking a delicious meal. Joan describes herself as a loving mother and a hard worker who would love to find someone with whom to enjoy life. She’s happiest when she’s at the beach with her family and is looking for a family man with whom to blend her life.
And these things stood out to me:
“Joan sounds like a good time with the right priorities: wine, food, Elton John. It’s a good sign she likes a beach since Gerry lives in a lake house. But that said, it’s a little problematic — for a potential relationship with this particular man, not for Joan herself, let me make that clear — that so much of her identity and pride is in rebuilding a career after her husband died. Will she be willing to walk away from that for some guy she met on a TV show?”
We now know that Joan takes her role as mother and grandmother very seriously, as she self-eliminated during Gerry’s season to be with her daughter after she had a difficult delivery and post-partum issues. Joan just isn’t leaving that job, and she is not leaving her kids and grandchildren. Here she is in a recent interview:
“I would never want to leave my family,” she confirmed. “My kids and my grandkids all live really close to me and not being close to them all the time would not work for me. They’re the most important people in my life. I felt that anybody that I would be a good match for, they would have the same family values as I have and would not want to leave their family.”
And as we saw with Gerry and Theresa, these questions of where they will live, and who will have to make sacrifices, particularly to their relationships with their children, they can be insurmountable. Gerry and Theresa rushed to get married, but only after a couple of months of not being able to agree on where they would live, these two split up.
And when it came to Theresa, my instincts were right on: “Theresa sounds fine. She sounds perfectly nice. Again, I need to know more about where these children and grandchildren are. If they are anywhere but New Jersey, there’s no problem here. But if she currently lives near them …”
Reader: she did live near them.
Let’s get reacquainted with Joan:
Joan
Rockville, Maryland
School Administrator, 61
After her time was cut short on the inaugural season of “The Golden Bachelor,” Joan Vassos, the 61-year-old grandmother and school administrator from Rockville, Maryland, will begin her own journey for new love this fall when she steps into the historic role as the first Golden Bachelorette. The fan favorite will bring her signature grace and charm as she embarks on a search for her next person, showcasing that everyone is worthy of more than just a second chance at love.
Vassos is a remarkable woman whose life has been defined by her resilience, zest for adventure and strong family values. It was those family values that led to her heartbreaking decision to leave “The Golden Bachelor,” self-eliminating after a medical concern with her daughter arose. Despite that and other challenges she’s faced along the way – including the heartbreaking loss of her husband after 32 years of marriage – Vassos remains an embodiment of strength and grace as a devoted mother of four, grandmother of three, and school administrator, while finding solace in the music of Elton John, spending time with her dog, and cooking. Now, as she steps into the golden spotlight and begins her journey to seek love once more, Vassos envisions a future filled with shared moments by the beach and cherished time with family.
Again, Joan has made it perfectly clear, she’s not leaving Maryland. She added in that interview that I referenced above that she might be willing to do a long-distance relationship where they traveled back and forth between each other’s homes … for a while. But eventually, it’s clear, they are going to have to fit into her life, which means hanging out listening to Elton John while she cooks for you somewhere on the shores of Maryland. Maybe Virginia.
I will make one caveat about all of this which is that men — especially older men, especially older men who have been married before — need women in their lives more than older women need men in their lives. So while some of these men might have children and grandchildren in their lives that they are attached to, they might be more willing to move away for a woman than a woman with grandchildren in her life would be for a man. It’s just not the same math that we had with Gerry, is what I’m trying to say. LIKE I SAID, I MAKE BROAD GENERALIZATIONS, THAT’S WHAT I DO.
And in conclusion: ABC, have you considered, just for the Golden versions of these shows, perhaps, to steal something from Love is Blind and only cast contestants who live within, say, a one- or two-hundred-mile radius of your lead? Sure, you might not have as many available contestants, and the ones you have might not be as handsome/successful/telegenic, but it might make for a more successful outcome. And frankly, I think these people deserve a real shot at lasting love.
Bill
Portland, Oregon
Retired Videographer, 68
Bill is an outgoing, charismatic man who is ready to meet the one! The retired video producer is a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic who says, “I am Latin; romance is in my blood!” Bill loves the retired life but wants to meet someone to enjoy his golden years with. He shares two daughters with his ex-wife, and they are all extremely supportive of him going on this journey and hopefully finding love again. Bill says he has tried every dating site and hasn’t had any luck in his local singles’ scene. When he isn’t spending time with family, Bill loves playing guitar, public speaking and rocking out to the Beatles. He’s hoping meeting Joan will be the end of the search for his future wife … Fingers crossed!
Fun Facts:
• Bill is a member of two Toastmasters clubs.
• Bill would love to own a coffee shop and name it Billy Beans.
• Bill is currently watching his way through the list of every Academy Award® Best Picture winner.
First off, follow your dreams, Bill! Open that Billy Beans and take the coffee world by storm!
Unfortunately, though, it sounds like that Billy Beans will probably have to be in Oregon, as you spend most of your time with your family. And I’m not sure if you’ve recently looked at a map, but Oregon is on the opposite side of our very wide country from Maryland. If you’re willing to open that Billy Beans somewhere in suburban Baltimore, it might work out!
Bob
Marina Del Rey, California
Chiropractor, 66
Bob knows how to ride the waves of life … literally! This chiropractor is an avid surfer, and he’s ready to see if he and Joan have the totally tubular chemistry he’s been searching for. After going through a divorce, Bob is ready to open his heart again and is hoping to find a kind, patient and compassionate woman — someone he can truly call a partner. Bob is very dedicated to his work as a chiropractor, and there’s nothing he loves more than helping people. When he isn’t working, Bob enjoys going for ocean swims, watching Pixar movies and eating dark chocolate. Bob is serious about finding love, so let the journey begin.
Fun Facts:
• Bob loves to go on walks with his dog, Clarence.
• Bob doesn’t do fast food.
• Bob loves to in-line skate, but ONLY on quads.
Again, Dr. Bob here lives in California and is 66 years old. This is retirement age! And yet, his bio explains that he’s very “dedicated to his work.” I’m wondering if this man is going to be willing to close up his shop in Marina Del Rey and start an entirely new practice in Maryland. Unlikely!
Charles K.
Rancho Palos Verdes, California
Portfolio Manager, 62
Charles K. is just as sweet as he is handsome! The portfolio manager has strong family values, is well-traveled, and is the life of the party. While Charles K. is very proud of his work, he says his five children are his greatest accomplishment. When he isn’t working or spending time with family, Charles K. loves playing basketball, dancing, exercising and exploring the outdoors. He also takes his style (or, as his son says, his “drip”) seriously. This fashion-forward senior says he wants to prove to the world that men above 60 “still have game, charm and swag!” Charles K. has traveled the world looking for love and is open to living anywhere; he’s just waiting for that right connection. He can’t wait to meet Joan and see if she’s the woman he’s been searching for!
Fun Facts:
• Charles K. LOVES kayaking.
• Charles K. says Saturday mornings are for sleeping in.
• Charles K. is very proud of the work he’s done building homes in rural Nicaragua.
OK, now we’re getting somewhere. Though Charles lives in California and has five children that he spends time with, he explicitly says that he is “open to living anywhere.” Furthermore, as a Portfolio Manager, he doesn’t have a job that ties him to a particular location. I like his bio, and I like his clear sense of adventure and openness. If Charles can get past night one, we can put him on the “Maybe?” list.
Charles L.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Retired Financial Analyst, 66
Charles L. really is someone special. The retired data analyst and father of two is ready for a second chance at true love and excited to put himself out there. Charles L. is no stranger to taking risks. He grew up in rural China and moved to the United States with only $20 in his pocket. Now, he’s ready to risk it all for love and is hoping Joan can match his kind heart, hilarious sense of humor, and sweet soul. Charles L. is hoping to meet someone intelligent and kind, and we know he’s coming to the right place. If Charles L. could see anyone in concert during his golden years, he’d love to see Britney Spears perform one day. Let’s see if Charles L. can find love “Baby One More Time” with Joan!
Fun Facts:
• Charles L. dreams of going to the moon.
• Charles L. loves to fish and grew up making his own fishing nets.
• Charles L.’s favorite TV show is the NBA Finals every year.
Again, Charles L. here is showing all the signs of flexibility and a willingness to make changes in his life to be with someone. Additionally, Philadelphia is not far from Maryland, so they could actually date after the show in a way that would be low-risk for everyone involved. Added to the “Maybe?” list.
(Though I don’t know how to break it to the 66-year-old that he’s never going to the moon.)
Chock
Wichita, Kansas
Insurance Executive, 60
Chock is quite the catch! He’s kind, loves adventure, and has had a successful career owning his own business. Chock has a very full life with his kids, his adorable black Lab Super Tubbs, and his work, but he knows he’s missing the one thing he wants most — love. Chock truly believes love can be found at any age and is enthusiastic about finding that spark again. He’s hoping this is his moment to meet the adventurous, compassionate woman he’s been looking for. When Chock isn’t working or spending time with his kids, he loves exercising and rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs. His guilty pleasure is shopping, and he can’t resist a good sale! Chock is totally a relationship guy, so let’s see if Joan is the long-term love he’s been dreaming of.
Fun Facts:
• Chock is a self-proclaimed grill master.
• Chock once went nighttime shark diving in Australia
• Chock hopes that Chevy Camaros with T-tops make a comeback.
First of all, “Chock.” His name is “Chock.”
Second of all, “Chock” is never leaving Kansas. Not going to happen.
Christopher
West Babylon, New York
Contractor, 64
Christopher is a proud father and grandfather who is ready to say goodbye to his single days. He loves owning a construction company, but his greatest accomplishments in life are his three kids and seven grandkids. Christopher is looking for a genuine connection with a sincere woman, and he can really see a future with Joan. He truly believes that it is never too late to find love and has high hopes for the Golden Bachelorette. In his free time, Christopher loves exercising and cooking healthy meals. He would love to cook for Joan and is ready to whip up her favorite dish if she has an appetite for a delicious meal with a handsome date!
Fun Facts:
• Christopher loves that his birthday is on Christmas Eve!
• Christopher loves Earth, Wind & Fire.
• Christopher loves bowling with his grandkids.
Christopher is a conundrum: on the one hand, he lives on Long Island, New York, has three children and seven grandchildren, and still owns his business. These are all strikes against him — I wouldn’t have counted West Babylon against him, it’s only five hours from Rockville, Maryland, but still owning a business is adding a layer of difficulty.
That said, Christopher seems to be specifically invested in Joan (rather than just “finding love again” or whatever vague bullshit they’re saying) and they share an interest in cooking and food, which isn’t a small thing. Add him to the “Maybe?” pile.
Dan
Naples, Florida
Private Investor, 64
Dan is a handsome catch with a big heart. The private investor is an optimistic, loyal and open-minded guy who loves the simple things in life, like enjoying a Saturday morning at the farmers market. He deeply values his close relationship with the women in his life, like his two daughters and his sister. Dan says he’s currently the happiest he’s ever been and just wants to meet the right woman to live out his golden years with. He hasn’t had much luck with dating recently, so Dan is excited about the opportunity to meet our Golden Bachelorette. We can’t wait to see if he and Joan hit it off!
Fun Facts:
• Dan loves to picnic at the beach.
• Dan loves to sing, just not in public.
• Dan is a big reader of historical biographies.
Now, with Dan, the question is kinda complicated: it doesn’t say that he spends his time with his family, just that he’s close to his daughters and sister. That suggests they might not live in Naples, and he might not be so tied to the community.
But on the other hand, Naples is a retirement destination and Dan may have made the decision to move there. If that’s the case, that he chose to live there rather than was raised there, it might be difficult to convince him to leave his chosen place to be with someone and her entire life.
David
Austin, Texas
Rancher, 68
David is a sweet soul who’s ready to find love! He’s thoughtful, sensitive and kind and has dedicated his life to being there for others. He put a pause on dating for 16 years to focus on his kids but is now ready to meet the love of his life and ride off into the sunset together. David loves running marathons and spontaneously booking flights to new destinations. He’s hoping his future wife will want to travel the world with him and share new experiences during their golden years. Joan, we know you’re looking for a life partner, but do you need a travel buddy, too?
Fun Facts:
• David’s hero is his 91-year-old mother.
• David loves to indulge in a cold beer on a hot day.
• David loves breakfast tacos.
OK, so on the one hand, David clearly is looking forward to living his life for himself and not his kids, which is a positive! That said, I don’t know how willing David is going to be to give up his jet-setting lifestyle to live for someone else’s kids.
Also, he’s a rancher. Also, he’s a Texan. Also, if his 91-year-old mother lives in Texas, FORGET IT.
Gary
Palm Desert, California
Retired Finance Executive, 65
Handsome Gary has a zest for life that lights up every room he enters! He loves the retired life in Palm Desert, where he enjoys taking spin classes, golfing and watching “The View.” Gary is the godson of the legendary Tina Turner and is also very musically gifted, with a beautiful singing voice and killer dance moves. The charming father of two says his dating life has been nonexistent, but he couldn’t be more ready to meet his soulmate. Gary is hoping to meet a kind, caring and intelligent woman to travel the world with. He dreams of owning a home in the South of France, so Joan, we hope you’re ready to bon voyage with Gary!
Fun Facts:
• Gary loves the spa.
• Gary says bring back disco!
• Gary rides hard for the USC Trojans.
Gary’s not leaving Southern California.
Gil
Mission Viejo, California
Educator, 60
Gil is the perfect combination of romantic, sweet and emotional. This educator is ready for love again and misses that feeling of knowing you’re with the right person. The father of two wants to show the world that men can be committed and want the same kinds of relationships that women do during their golden years. Gil loves going to comedy clubs with his friends and indulging in a relaxing foot massage in his free time. He knows retirement is on the horizon for him and dreams of living in Hawaii by the beach with the partner he is walking through the rest of his life with. Gil’s favorite way to show affection is holding hands, and he’s reaching out for Joan’s hand, hoping she’s the one he’s been waiting for.
Fun Facts:
• Gil is a skilled juggler.
• Gil’s favorite book is “The Bridges of Madison County.”
• Gil loves road-tripping, especially with his family.
Hawaii is nowhere near Maryland.
Guy
Reno, Nevada
Emergency Room Doctor, 66
Guy is ready to put himself out there for our Golden Bachelorette! The emergency room physician has dedicated nearly 40 years to helping others as a doctor, and he is excited about the opportunity to meet someone to share the rest of his life with. Guy is charismatic, confident and romantic and is looking for a woman who is intelligent and funny. He loves spending time with his four kids and grandchild and wants to prove to the world that older men still have a zest for life. Guy does NOT fit the “grumpy old man” stereotype and knows he has a lot of life left to live. He is a big believer in chivalry and wants to make Joan feel extra special. Guy is a total catch, and we think Joan will have no trouble seeing that!
Fun Facts:
• Guy is planning to hike Mount Kilimanjaro this fall.
• Guy dreams about the Dallas Cowboys winning a Super Bowl.
• Guy is a Beatlemaniac.
Dr. Guy likes spending time with his family, is still working as an ER doctor, and lives in Nevada. Though it says he’s ready to put himself out there for the Golden Bachelorette, there’s something about this guy that makes me think he’s hoping to put himself out there for the next Golden Bachelor.
Jack
Chicago, Illinois
Caterer, 68
Does Jack have an appetite for love? Yes, chef! The retired restaurant owner and chef has a big personality and loves spending time in the kitchen. Jack is ready to treat Joan like the queen she is and wants to cook a five-star meal just for her. The father and grandfather loves making people laugh and is looking to find his travel partner for life. He went on a solo trip to Italy last year and it made him realize that he truly wants someone to enjoy the world with. Jack is a big softie who just wants to tell his partner that he loves them every morning and every night before bed. He truly believes that love is within reach, and we hope he’s right!
Fun Facts:
• Jack is a proud racquetball champion.
• On May 22, 1977, Jack was sitting in the front row at Elvis’ last concert in Chicago.
• Jack’s favorite treat is a cigar, twice a month.
Now Jack is an interesting one: he’s a father and grandfather who lives in Chicago which are all going to be complications. But, he’s retired, he is a chef, and he can travel internationally alone which shows some risk-taking behavior. I’m putting him on the “Maybe?” pile!
Jonathan
Oakland, Iowa
Shipping Consultant, 61
A guy like Jonathan is every woman’s dream! The materials specialist is full of life, love and positivity, and he’s easy on the eyes as well. Jonathan hopes to prove that there are good men out there with real intentions of finding love in their golden years. His two kids are his number one priority, but he’s ready to make time for himself and his dating life. In his free time, Jonathan loves going to museums, attending live theater, and spending time with his three pets — a dog, a cat, and a floppy-eared rabbit. After reentering the dating pool in his Golden era, Jonathan is ready to find that spark. Here’s to hoping that Jonathan can find a meaningful connection with Joan!
Fun Facts:
• Jonathan loves amusement park funnel cake.
• Jonathan toyed with the idea of being a bodybuilder.
• Jonathan starts every day with two cups of coffee in bed.
I appreciate that Jonathan is a pet lover like Joan, but it’s right there: his two kids are his number one priority. And saying he’s “ready to make time for … his dating life,” sounds less like someone who is ready to get married and move across the country and more like someone who is just dipping his toes into the dating world.
Jordan
Chicago, Illinois
Senior Sales Executive, 61
Jordan is a glass-half-full kind of guy. This dad is extremely family-oriented and is very close with his three daughters and three brothers. When Jordan isn’t working, he loves walking his dog, Mickey, along the lake, enjoying deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s and playing ping-pong. Jordan is warm and funny and really wants to meet a woman to grow old with. He hopes to find someone who loves being outside and trying new restaurants. Jordan also hopes his future wife isn’t afraid to be silly and have fun because he doesn’t take life too seriously. Life is never boring when Jordan is around, and he plans to make the most out of every second he has with Joan!
Fun Facts:
• Jordan misses the days when visitors would stop by unannounced.
• Jordan won a “Mr. Legs” contest in college.
• Jordan loves Thanksgiving for the food, family and football.
Again, Jordan clearly has a ton of family in Chicago, which is not the deal-breaker for me here. The deal-breaker is that he names a specific pizza joint. This man is not leaving Chicago and he’s not leaving Lou Malnati’s.
Keith
San Jose, California
Girl Dad, 62
Keith lights up every room he walks into! The sales director and father of three is loving, smart and creative. Keith is not only 6-foot-5 but also a social butterfly with a big personality to match! He has dedicated most of his adult life to being a single dad and raising his daughters, but the soon-to-be empty-nester is ready to put himself first and prioritize finding love. When Keith falls for someone, he falls hard and fast and is hoping Joan could be the one for him. Keith believes age is just a number and says, “Younger people shouldn’t be scared of growing older. Getting older ROCKS!” Keith’s guilty pleasure is Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, and he says he can never have just one scoop. He’s ready to love Joan un-cone-ditionally!
Fun Facts:
• Keith is the king of cornhole, or “bags,” as he calls it.
• Keith’s life goal is to play a round of golf at Augusta National.
• Keith had the BEST time at Stagecoach this past year.
Though Keith lives in California, and his job title is “Girl Dad,” he seems to be willing to prioritize a relationship if the right one comes along. “Maybe?” pile.
Ken
Peabody, Massachusetts
Property Management Treasurer, 60
This Boston man is ready to find love! Ken’s family and friends describe him as honest, adventurous and active … like, really active! He has run many marathons, plays tennis and loves cycling. Ken is looking for a partner who has a good sense of humor and can keep up with his on-the-go lifestyle. He says he still feels young, even in his 60s and is in a very happy place in life despite not having someone to experience it all with. Ken’s heart is open to love, and he is so excited about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to find it with Joan. When he isn’t working or spending time with his adult kids, Ken loves watching “Ted Lasso” and cheering on Boston sports teams. Will this be the end of Ken’s search for love? We hope so!
Fun Facts:
• Ken is a Miley Cyrus stan.
• Ken is told he’s a bad driver, but he’s not buying it.
• Ken’s greatest dream is to throw out the first pitch at Fenway Park.
Ken is never leaving Massachusetts. The whole reason this man is going on the show is part of a scheme to get the Red Sox to invite him to throw out the first pitch.
Kim
Seattle, Washington
Retired Navy Captain, 69
Kim is ready to sail off into the sunset with Joan … literally! The retired naval officer loves spending time on his sailboat and dreams of taking Joan for a romantic ride as the sun goes down. Kim is a man of integrity who says he loves making the most of life at any age. He is sincere and generous, and he is a proud father and grandfather. Kim is ready for love and hopes to make his future partner feel special. His ideal date night includes cooking dinner together and enjoying it in the backyard. Kim loves an old-fashioned and hopes to toast to him and Joan being the perfect match. Sounds like you’ve come to the right place, Kim!
Fun Facts:
• Kim is an excellent whistler.
• Kim’s favorite food as a child was clam cakes.
• Kim would love to learn how to play the piano.
Now, Kim is interesting. Though he lives in Seattle and though he is a father and grandfather, there’s nothing here that suggests that his family lives near him and might be a deterrent to moving. Additionally, he’s a boat guy, and Maryland’s on the coast. Adding him to my “Maybe?” pile.
Mark
Leesville, Louisiana
Army Veteran, 57
Mark is ready for love after loss. You may recognize Mark as Kelsey Anderson’s dad and Joey Graziadei’s future father-in-law! Inspired by Kelsey and Joey’s love story, Mark is excited about this chance to find love again. Mark is empathetic and warm and has dedicated his life to working for the military. His five children are his greatest accompaniment, and he can’t wait to have grandchildren one day. Mark loved watching “The Golden Bachelor” because it made him realize he’s not alone in his grief, and others are also hoping to find love again in this chapter of life. He loves traveling to visit his kids, and he hopes to meet a woman to plant roots with again. Mark is truly here to find his person and hopefully return home with Joan by his side.
Fun Facts:
• Mark is terrified of ostriches.
•; Mark’s favorite movie is “Elf.”
• Mark can wiggle his ears.
First of all, Hi, Mark! Mark was absolutely adorable on Joey’s season, and we’re happy to see him join the cast.
I’m also happy to see him mention that he enjoys traveling to visit his children, which suggests his kids don’t live near him. Of course, with all of these men, there are other factors: he may not want to leave his friends or community — and Leesville, Louisiana is a small town in Western Louisiana, it’s going to have its own community. Still, he’s the youngest contestant, which means he might still be willing to make changes and not being tied down to kids and grandkids is enough for me to add him to the “Maybe?” pile.
Michael
Denver, North Carolina
Retired Banking CEO, 65
Michael is a sweet soul who is ready to find the one. The banking exec is a dad of two sons he loves very much, and they both hope he can find love again. Michael is compassionate, creative and intelligent, and he loves learning new things. When he’s not working, he enjoys reading, watching movies and exploring Chicago’s botanical gardens. When it comes to dating, Michael says he makes sure to listen and learn about his date rather than talking too much. Michael is excited for the chance to fall in love again and can’t wait for his “Golden Bachelorette” journey to begin.
Fun Facts:
• Michael went to Lollapalooza three times … all in his 50s!
• Michael is terrified of talent shows.
• Michael is a Swiftie.
Michael has two sons, but we don’t know where they live, so it does not count against him. Furthermore, and I know this is going to sound sexist of me, but had they been daughters they would have counted against him. This is because older parents depend on their adult daughters far more than they do their adult sons, this is just facts. Also, there’s never been a generalization I don’t love to make.
But I need someone to explain to me how Chicago got dragged into this? Chicago is nowhere near North Carolina?
Pablo
Cambridge, Maryland
Retired UN Agency Director, 63
Pablo is a man of the world who spends his days saving lives and his evenings curled up on the couch watching reruns of his favorite sitcoms. When he isn’t volunteering as an EMT, Pablo, who is originally from Buenos Aires, enjoys visiting his kids and grandkids in California and New York, running ultramarathons, and watching rugby. Pablo is also a sucker for a rom-com and isn’t afraid to admit that he cries in almost all romantic scenes. He is a big believer that we can learn, play and explore new things at any age, and he can’t wait for the opportunity to meet Joan. Will our Golden Bachelorette be the person Pablo has been looking for? Only time will tell!
Fun Facts:
• Pablo has a degree in geographical engineering.
• Pablo has a tough time controlling himself around ice cream.
• Pablo doesn’t have a travel bucket list because he wants to go everywhere!
And we have our closest contender yet, with a fellow Marylander? Marylandian? Additionally, Pablo shows an openness to new things, and his kids and grandkids live across the country. I’m putting him in the “Maybe?” pile but if Gerry and his choices are any precedent, the closer you live to the Golden Bachelor/ette, the more likely you’re going to be eliminated the first night. So.
Pascal
Chicago, Illinois
Salon Owner, 69
Pascal is ready to say, “Eiffel in love!” This French business owner is looking for his soulmate and cannot wait to meet our Golden Bachelorette. Pascal is a very proud father and grandfather whose family is his pride and joy. When he’s not working, Pascal loves going to the theater, trying new restaurants and going to concerts. He loves the finer things in life and says while he isn’t a great cook, he “makes great reservations!” Pascal is French, so being romantic is in his blood, and he’s hoping to meet a woman who is passionate, full of life and intelligent. Pascal is ready to start the next chapter, and now, he just needs to find the right woman to stand by his side. Oui are rooting for you, Pascal!
Fun Facts:
• Pascal loves taking his grandson to the aquarium.
• Pascal played a lot of tennis back in the day.
• In another life, Pascal would have loved to be a fashion designer.
Pascal likes to take his grandson to the Chicago aquarium. Pascal is not leaving his grandson.
RJ
Irvine, California
Financial Adviser, 66
Looking for a man in finance, 6-foot-5, “Golden Bachelorette” cast member? Well, look no further than RJ! RJ is the happiest person he knows, and he’s ready to share all that happiness with a special someone. He may be in his golden years, but he says, “Us old guys are still vibrant and suitable for love!” When he isn’t working, RJ loves playing poker and golf and enjoys good food with good friends. His guilty pleasures are warm chocolate chip cookies and long walks on the beach. RJ is looking for his “forever snuggle bunny” and is hoping Joan is the storybook ending he’s been dreaming of. Here’s to hoping he can find the butterflies he’s looking for on “The Golden Bachelorette”!
Fun Facts:
• RJ’s favorite Christmas movie is “Die Hard.”
• RJ has been to 47 of the United States.
• RJ loves to read spy novels.
No mention of kids or grandkids. Automatic “Maybe?” pile.
Thomas
New York, New York
FDNY Chief, 62
Love is heating up — is there a firefighter in the house?! Thomas has it covered. This New York City firefighter is a great catch, and he is so excited about the opportunity to find love again. Thomas is a father of three and is very close with his kids. When he isn’t working hard in the firehouse, he enjoys playing ukulele, eating ice cream and listening to Elton John while walking around Central Park. Thomas is a self-proclaimed great gift-giver and is hopeful that Joan is ready to be showered with tokens of his affection. He has a hilarious and sarcastic sense of humor, and while he doesn’t take life too seriously, Thomas knows the future is bright. He is ready to sweep Joan off her feet!
Fun Facts:
• Thomas knows how to ride a unicycle
• Thomas used to own a crêperie in Rhode Island.
• Thomas is a big skier and an even bigger après-skier.
Thomas and Joan share a love for Elton John, but Thomas here likes to listen to Elton John while walking around Central Park. Which is in New York City. Which is not Maryland. Also, he’s still an active fire chief, and is close with his kids … he is promising, but I don’t see it working out.
Listen, if Gerry had listened to me and chosen one of the two women that lived closest to him instead of eliminating BOTH of them on night one, maybe things would have ended differently for him.
As for Joan, I hope she has a better head on her shoulders, and that she finds something lasting with one of these handsome gentlemen. Good luck, ma’am, and if you need any more advice, you can find me washing Tums down with box wine.
The Bachelor airs Wednesdays on ABC at 7/8 p.m. and streams on Hulu.