Jonathan Rone’s journey on The Golden Bachelorette began with a mask covering his eyes, but his heart remained open as he searched for love. More than just a hopeful romantic, Jonathan is a devoted father of two, navigating single parenthood while embracing new beginnings.
In the September 2024 premiere of the ABC spinoff series, Jonathan introduced himself as a resident of Oakland, Iowa—a small town with just over 1,500 residents. However, as he candidly shared, he wouldn’t have stayed there if not for his children.
“Other than for my kids, I probably wouldn’t be in this small city,” he admitted. His life took an unexpected turn when his wife asked for a divorce, leaving him blindsided.
Since then, Jonathan has dedicated himself to being the best father possible. “They are the joy of my life,” he said, referring to his kids. “There have been a lot of sacrifices, but family comes first.”
Jonathan also related deeply to Golden Bachelorette lead Joan Vassos’ sentiments about feeling invisible at an older age. “Being at this age and being single, feeling invisible, I can definitely relate,” he said. “But I’m doing what’s best for my children. That’s what sacrifice is all about—being selfless.”
Let’s take a closer look at the most important people in Jonathan’s life:
His Late Mother, Lola Rone
Jonathan shared a deep bond with his mother, Lola, who passed away in September 2020. He announced via Instagram that she had been moved to hospice care before her passing. According to her obituary, she was survived by Jonathan, his siblings Edward and Marielle, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her influence on Jonathan’s life remains evident in his devotion to family.
Jonathan’s Ex-Wife and the Divorce That Changed Everything
Jonathan’s love story took a heartbreaking turn when his wife unexpectedly asked for a divorce. He opened up about the moment that changed his life during the show’s premiere.
“Life was grand, so to speak. I was a husband and a father,” he recalled. “And then one Sunday morning, the kids were asleep, I was asleep, and my wife woke me up and said, ‘Hey Jonathan, can we have a talk?’ She took a deep breath and said, ‘I want a divorce.’ … Out of the blue, she said, ‘I’m not happy.’”
It was a moment that shattered his world, but nearly nine years later, Jonathan is ready to love again. “I’m ready to open my heart again,” he said, hopeful about finding a partner who will not only love him but also fit into the life he’s built with his children.
Jonathan’s Daughter: A Special Bond
Jonathan shares a close relationship with his daughter, as seen in the show’s premiere episode. Viewers watched as the father-daughter duo played basketball together, showcasing their natural bond. As she dribbled and took a shot, Jonathan beamed with pride, cheering her on.
Jonathan’s Son: A Loving Connection
Jonathan’s son also plays a vital role in his life. During his Golden Bachelorette intro package, a heartwarming selfie of Jonathan and his two kids was shared, capturing the trio’s infectious smiles. Another touching moment showed Jonathan receiving a kiss on both cheeks from his children, further proving that the love of a parent and child is unmatched.
A Father First, A Romantic at Heart
Jonathan’s journey on The Golden Bachelorette is about more than just finding love—it’s about creating a life that honors his role as a father. His devotion to his children, his resilience after heartbreak, and his willingness to embrace new beginnings make him a contestant worth rooting for.
As he continues his search for a partner, Jonathan remains grounded in what truly matters: family, love, and the hope for a second chance at happiness.
