From Reality TV to Real Life: Gerry Turner Tells All in New Book
After winning the hearts of millions as the star of The Golden Bachelor, Gerry Turner is back — this time not on TV, but in bookstores. The 72-year-old former reality star is releasing a memoir titled Golden Years: What I’ve Learned from Love, Loss, and Reality TV, set to hit shelves on November 4, 2025. PEOPLE magazine exclusively revealed the book cover, which features a portrait of Turner, radiating both wisdom and warmth.
An Unfiltered Look at Love, Loss, and a Life Under the Spotlight
Turner’s memoir promises to dive deep into the personal stories that didn’t make it to the screen. According to the official synopsis, Golden Years explores his grief following the death of his wife Toni, the emotional highs and lows of dating on national television, and the lessons he’s gathered along the way.
“In Golden Years, Gerry chronicles his grief after Toni’s death, his unbelievable experiences on The Golden Bachelor, and the life-altering lessons he took away from both,” the book’s summary states.
Fans may recall that it was Turner’s daughters who encouraged him to join The Golden Bachelor, hoping he’d find love again after losing his beloved wife in 2017. He eventually got engaged to Theresa Nist in the season finale, and the two tied the knot in a live televised wedding in January 2024. However, their whirlwind romance came to an end just a few months later, with Turner filing for divorce in April.
New Love, New Challenges — And a New Chapter
Now dating a retired teacher named Lana from Indiana, Turner is also opening up about a serious health battle. In late 2024, he revealed his diagnosis of Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, a rare and slow-growing form of bone marrow cancer.
Despite personal struggles, Turner is optimistic — and his book reflects that journey of resilience. “I am more than what people saw on reality TV,” Turner said in a statement. “Now everyone can get a glimpse of my life and finally see the unedited story of The Golden Bachelor.”
A Must-Read for Bachelor Nation
Whether you’re a diehard fan of the franchise or simply drawn to stories of love, loss, and second chances, Golden Years promises insight, honesty, and even a few behind-the-scenes secrets from the making of The Golden Bachelor.
The memoir is available for preorder now at major retailers and will be officially released on November 4, 2025.
