The premiere of The Golden Bachelor on September 28, 2023, was a game-changer for Bachelor Nation. Starring 72-year-old Gerry Turner—a widowed, retired restaurateur—this show brought a fresh perspective to reality TV romance. Instead of young, impulsive contestants, we saw mature adults, many of whom had experienced love and loss, bravely stepping into the dating scene once again.
What made The Golden Bachelor stand out was its authenticity. It shed light on the stigma of dating in later years and proved that love knows no age. But let’s not forget—it’s still Bachelor Nation! Despite the wisdom and experience of its cast, the season had its fair share of drama, surprises, and jaw-dropping moments. Here are the 10 wildest ones, ranked.
10. Joan Vassos’s Heartbreaking Exit (Episode 3)
Joan Vassos quickly became a fan favorite, especially after she opened up about losing her husband to cancer. She shared a heartfelt connection with Gerry, even receiving a one-on-one date and a rose. But just when things were looking promising, Joan made the tough decision to leave after receiving a distressing message from her daughter, who was struggling with postpartum depression. The emotional goodbye between Joan and Gerry—both in tears—was one of the most heartbreaking moments of the season.
9. Theresa Nist’s Risqué Limo Entrance (Episode 1)
Theresa Nist didn’t waste time making a bold first impression. As she stepped out of the limo in a sleek satin robe, she playfully told Gerry it was her “birthday suit”—leaving him momentarily speechless. The punchline? She revealed a nude-colored bodysuit underneath, laughing at his reaction. The cheeky stunt definitely set the tone for their flirty connection.
8. The Ladies’ Scandalous Game of Never Have I Ever (Episode 4)
Think senior citizens can’t be wild? Think again. While Gerry was away on a date, the women gathered for a Never Have I Ever game—except instead of shots, they played with ice cream. The confessions ranged from kissing a married man to steamy workplace encounters and even same-gender experimentation. This unexpected moment shattered stereotypes and reminded viewers that age doesn’t dull the thrill of romance and adventure.
7. Kathy vs. Theresa: The Unexpected Feud (Episode 3)
Drama isn’t reserved for the younger Bachelor seasons! The tension between Kathy Swarts and Theresa proved that jealousy and insecurity don’t disappear with age. When Theresa casually mentioned her private conversation with Gerry, Kathy saw it as boasting and told her to “zip it.” Their disagreement escalated into one of the season’s most unexpected confrontations, proving that even a mature cast isn’t immune to competitive tension.
6. Gerry’s Shocking Change of Heart with Leslie (Episode 9)
Leslie Fhima was one of the strongest contenders for Gerry’s heart, and he even hinted at a future together during their Fantasy Suite date. So, when he blindsided her the next day by choosing Theresa instead, viewers were just as stunned as Leslie. The betrayal was brutal, and watching Leslie break down in disbelief made it one of the season’s most painful moments.
5. April’s Fake Pickleball Injury (Episode 4)
During a friendly game of pickleball, April Kirkwood suddenly collapsed, clutching her ankle in apparent pain. Concerned, Gerry rushed to her side, showering her with attention. The catch? April later admitted she faked the injury to steal some alone time with him! Her cheeky confession—”A girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do”—made this one of the funniest moments of the season.
4. Sandra’s Foul-Mouthed Zen Practice (Episode 1)
Nerves were running high on night one, but Sandra Mason had a unique way of calming herself down: cursing! When she demonstrated her stress-relief technique to Gerry—letting out a stream of expletives—his face was priceless. After a moment of shock, he joined in, making for one of the most hilarious and unexpected icebreakers in Bachelor history.
3. Faith’s Biker Entrance (Episode 1)
Faith Martin ditched the traditional limo entrance and roared onto the scene on a motorcycle. Her dramatic arrival, complete with a windswept helmet removal, was straight out of a romance novel. She sealed the moment by telling Gerry, “You can live fast and not die young.” The bold move clearly worked—Faith made it all the way to the final three.
2. April’s “Fresh Eggs” and Chicken Dance (Episode 1)
If anyone owned their quirks, it was April. She introduced herself to Gerry with a basket of eggs, joking about their freshness—a not-so-subtle nod to fertility. But it didn’t stop there. Before leaving, she performed a full-fledged chicken dance. The mix of humor and randomness made April one of the most unforgettable contestants of the season.
1. Susan Noles Officiating Gerry’s Wedding (Episode 9)
In a Bachelor first, an eliminated contestant returned—not for a second chance at love, but to officiate Gerry and Theresa’s wedding. Susan, who had been sent home in Week 5, took on the unusual role with grace and humor. While it was meant to be a full-circle moment, many viewers found it awkward. Even Susan later admitted in an interview that the whole thing was a bit strange.
The Golden Bachelor Set a New Standard for Reality TV
With its heartwarming moments, unexpected drama, and refreshing authenticity, The Golden Bachelor proved that love stories only get richer with age. The season had its fair share of chaos, but at its core, it was a celebration of second chances and new beginnings. Whether you tuned in for the romance or the drama, one thing’s for sure—this season was unforgettable.
