When Joan Vassos and Chock Chapple got engaged at the end of The Golden Bachelorette, I was certain their relationship wouldn’t last. My doubts were rooted in the disappointing failure of The Golden Bachelor’s first couple—Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist. The couple’s three-month marriage after their season ended left me skeptical about love on the show, and I assumed Joan, 61, and Chock, 60, would meet the same fate. However, I’m starting to reconsider my initial doubts. Could Joan and Chock’s connection be the real deal?
Why I Thought Joan and Chock Were Just a Showmance
When Gerry and Theresa got engaged during the Golden Bachelor finale, I, along with many viewers, was swept up in the romance of seeing seniors finding love. Their wedding came soon after the proposal, which raised some red flags for me. But I wanted to believe in their love. When their sudden divorce was announced, I wasn’t surprised, and it reinforced my cynicism about The Golden Bachelorette’s chances at lasting romance. I couldn’t help but think Joan and Chock might be caught up in a similar media spectacle, a manufactured showmance that wouldn’t last beyond the finale.
But as I’ve watched Joan and Chock’s relationship unfold, my opinion has started to change.
Joan and Chock’s Connection: More Than Just a Fairytale
Since their engagement, Joan and Chock have appeared genuinely happy together, and it’s clear that they’ve both endured deep personal loss. Before joining the Golden Bachelorette, Joan was married to her late husband, John Vassos, for 32 years before his passing in 2021. Chock, too, lost his fiancée, Katherine Goree, in 2022 after a nine-year engagement. Their shared experiences of grief created a strong emotional bond between the two, and it’s heartwarming to see them supporting each other.
Throughout The Golden Bachelorette, Chock’s devotion to Joan became evident, particularly when he left the show after the passing of his mother but returned to be with Joan soon after. His loyalty and commitment during such a challenging time spoke volumes about his feelings for her. Unlike Gerry and Theresa, who rushed into marriage, Joan and Chock are taking their time and allowing their connection to grow.
The Couple That Takes Their Time: No Need to Rush
Since their engagement, Joan and Chock have made it clear that they’re in no rush to walk down the aisle. In an interview with Life & Style, they explained that they want to enjoy their time getting to know each other and build a solid foundation before making any major commitments. This patient and thoughtful approach stands in stark contrast to Gerry and Theresa’s whirlwind romance. Instead of rushing into marriage, Joan and Chock are carefully navigating their relationship, which shows maturity and an awareness of the importance of a lasting connection.
Though fans are eagerly awaiting the next Bachelor wedding, it’s clear to me that Joan and Chock’s slow and steady approach is much more likely to result in lasting happiness.
Could Joan and Chock Be the Exception to the Rule?
While my initial skepticism led me to believe that Joan and Chock would follow the same short-lived path as Gerry and Theresa, I’ve come to realize that their bond is built on a stronger foundation. Both have faced immense personal challenges and found solace in one another. By taking things slowly and prioritizing their relationship, they’re setting a positive example for future couples on The Bachelor franchise. It may not be a whirlwind romance, but Joan and Chock could prove that love at any age doesn’t need to be rushed to be real.
