The search is on for the next Golden Bachelor, and producers aren’t wasting any time. Instead of selecting a contestant from Joan Vassos’ upcoming season of The Golden Bachelorette, they are casting a wider net—leaving fans wondering why none of the eligible men from her season were chosen.
With time running out, the franchise is seeking fresh applicants, and the buzz around their decision is growing.
Why Isn’t the Next Golden Bachelor from The Golden Bachelorette?
Initially, speculation was high that Mark Anderson—one of the standout men from Joan Vassos’ season—would step into the lead role. However, he has since entered a relationship with One Tree Hill actress Barbara Alyn Woods, taking him out of the running.
Another potential candidate, Jonathan Rone, also seemed like a strong contender. However, while he is now single after parting ways with his post-show relationship, it’s unclear whether he was ever considered—or even interested—in the role.
Guy Gansert, the runner-up, was also seen as a possibility. However, he recently landed a guest role on General Hospital, making it uncertain whether he was even available for the opportunity.
With none of these familiar faces stepping into the spotlight, the show is now actively scouting new contenders—and doing so with urgency.
Casting Call: Racing Against Time
Bachelor blogger Zachary Reality revealed on TikTok that the casting team reached out to him directly, hoping to spread the word about their search.
According to Zachary, producers are looking for “a fresh face” and need applications submitted within the next two weeks.
While the franchise is in a hurry to find its next leading man, they aren’t currently searching for women.
According to Zachary, The Golden Bachelor already has a strong lineup of single women ready for the journey. Now, they just need the right bachelor to lead the season.
Filming is reportedly set to begin around July, though no official premiere date has been announced.
Reflecting on The Golden Bachelor’s First Season
The first season of The Golden Bachelor was an undeniable hit. Gerry Turner, the show’s first leading man, found love with Theresa Nist, and their journey ended in a televised wedding. However, just three months later, the couple announced their divorce.
Recently, Gerry revealed he has been diagnosed with an incurable but slow-growing cancer, though he remains optimistic about his quality of life moving forward.
Despite Gerry’s personal challenges, his season was a milestone for the Bachelor franchise, introducing viewers to endearing contestants like Leslie Fhima and Susan Noles. The show’s success proved that love stories aren’t just for the young—and now, the search for the next Golden Bachelor is in full swing.
With the clock ticking, producers are eager to find the perfect man for the role. Will he be a complete newcomer, or could a familiar face still surprise fans? Only time will tell.
