Theresa Nist and Leslie Fhima, once rivals vying for Gerry Turner’s heart on The Golden Bachelor season 1, have formed a surprising and enduring friendship. While their bond may seem like an innocent connection between two women with shared experiences, their playful interactions sometimes feel like a not-so-subtle jab at Gerry, the man who connected—and divided—them.
From Competition to Connection
The Golden Bachelor was a groundbreaking spin-off, celebrating the romantic lives of seniors. Gerry Turner, a charismatic 72-year-old widower, took the lead, and among his many admirers were 66-year-old Leslie and 70-year-old Theresa. The two women made it to the final stages of the show, with Gerry leading Leslie to believe she was “the one” before ultimately proposing to Theresa.
Though Theresa emerged as the victor and married Gerry shortly after the season ended, the union was short-lived. Just three months after tying the knot, the couple announced their divorce, leaving Theresa free to rebuild her life. Surprisingly, the person by her side during this transition wasn’t another romantic partner but her former competition, Leslie.
The Start of an Unlikely Friendship
Despite their romantic rivalry, Theresa and Leslie grew close during the show. Leslie even attended Theresa and Gerry’s wedding, underscoring their mutual respect. After Theresa’s divorce, she visited Leslie in Minnesota, where their friendship deepened. Their bond has since become a heartwarming example of two women finding connection and support after a shared tumultuous experience.
A “Wicked” Nod to Their Bond
Recently, Theresa and Leslie delighted fans with a playful nod to their friendship on social media. Referencing the musical Wicked, they compared themselves to Glinda and Elphaba, the show’s central characters whose unlikely bond transcends differences. In a clip posted by Theresa, the caption “The Unlikely Friendship” appeared—a clear reflection of their journey from competitors to allies.
The post seemed to hint at the expectations viewers had for them to remain rivals, especially given their history with Gerry. Instead, the women flipped the script, using humor and camaraderie to redefine their narrative.
Could the Golden Duo Return to Bachelor Nation?
Fans have speculated whether Theresa and Leslie could reappear in the Bachelor franchise. While neither seems likely to take the lead role on The Golden Bachelorette, many believe they would be perfect for a potential Golden Bachelor in Paradise.
The idea of a senior spin-off of Bachelor in Paradise has been floating around, and Theresa and Leslie’s dynamic could inject both humor and heartfelt moments into such a series. Their shared past and lighthearted approach to life after The Golden Bachelor make them natural candidates for a return to the screen.
Moving On and Moving Up
While Gerry Turner may have been the initial focus of their lives on The Golden Bachelor, Theresa Nist and Leslie Fhima have proven that their friendship is the real prize. Whether their social media posts are innocent fun or subtle jabs at their shared past, one thing is clear: these women are thriving, together.
As Bachelor Nation eagerly anticipates what’s next for the franchise, fans hope Theresa and Leslie will continue to bring their charm, wit, and undeniable chemistry back to our screens—whether it’s as partners in crime or in love.
