The Bachelor franchise’s new spin-offs, The Golden Bachelor and The Golden Bachelorette, have showcased love later in life with varied outcomes. While some contestants returned home alone, others have found love beyond the show, proving that romance in the golden years is possible and worth pursuing.
Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist’s Brief Union
The debut season of The Golden Bachelor aired in September 2023 and followed Gerry Turner, a widower searching for love after losing his wife. Gerry’s journey ended with an engagement to Theresa Nist, and the couple made headlines when they announced their marriage in January. Sadly, their love story didn’t last, as they divorced just three months later. Despite their short-lived romance, the show’s legacy continued in the form of The Golden Bachelorette.
Jonathan Rone Finds Love Post-Elimination
Jonathan Rone, a fan favorite from The Golden Bachelorette, left Joan Vassos’ season before his hometown date. Although he didn’t win her heart, he soon found love after the show. Jonathan introduced his new girlfriend, Michelle, on Instagram, describing her as “the second chance I’ve been looking for.” His posts featured pictures of the happy couple, confirming their relationship is going strong. Despite not ending up with Joan, Jonathan’s journey is proof that love can strike unexpectedly.
Mark Anderson and Barbara Alyn Woods Spark Romance Rumors
Mark Anderson, known for being the father of The Bachelor season 28 winner Kelsey Anderson, joined The Golden Bachelorette and bonded with Joan over shared experiences of loss. Joan ultimately felt they were at different stages of healing and eliminated him. However, rumors about Mark’s romantic life took a new turn when he was spotted with One Tree Hill star Barbara Alyn Woods. The couple’s matching Halloween costumes—Barbara as Cinderella and Mark as Prince Charming—sparked speculation. Kelsey’s comment on Barbara’s post, “so cute,” further fueled the rumors, though neither Mark nor Barbara has confirmed the relationship.
Joan and Chock’s Growing Love
Joan Vassos and Chock Chapple, the winning couple of The Golden Bachelorette, have continued to thrive post-show. Their engagement on the season finale was only the beginning. Months later, they’re stronger than ever, blending their families and looking forward to spending the holidays together. They spent Thanksgiving with their new extended family and are planning a Christmas celebration. The couple is currently house hunting in New York City, aiming for a new chapter that bridges their lives between Maryland and Kansas.
Golden Love Proves It’s Never Too Late
While Gerry and Theresa’s story ended abruptly, Joan and Chock’s journey exemplifies that true love is still possible later in life. The show has shown that even contestants who don’t win the final rose can find happiness outside of it. Whether finding love within the show or moving on after elimination, The Golden Bachelor and The Golden Bachelorette have proven that love in the later years is real—and worth every moment of the wait.
