In 2023, April Kirkwood made her debut on The Golden Bachelor, stepping into the reality TV spotlight to seek love after the devastating loss of her long-term partner, Ralph Rendano. Nearly two years later, April’s journey has taken a new turn, leading her to reevaluate her life and redefine what she’s looking for in love and personal growth.
Moving On: A Fresh Start in New York
Originally from Ohio, April moved to Port St. Lucie, Florida, more than 20 years ago, where she worked as a mental health counselor and built a life with Ralph. After his passing in 2021, April decided it was time for a change. She recently sold the home she and Ralph shared, a decision she described as emotionally challenging but necessary for her personal growth.
“I think this is my time to shine and focus on my career,” April shared. “Saying goodbye to that house, which Ralph and I shared for so many years, is going to take a lot out of me emotionally, but I know it’s the right move.”
April plans to relocate to New York to be closer to her children and grandchildren, leaving behind the Treasure Coast in search of new opportunities and a chance to meet someone organically.
Why April Believes in Organic Love
April admits she’s not a fan of dating apps or the formalities of traditional dating. “I always fall in love just by bumping into the right person,” she explained. “I hate dating; I’m not a dater. Usually, I meet somebody, fall in love with them, and stay with them forever.”
While Port St. Lucie has been a beautiful place for April, she believes it’s not an ideal spot for singles. Her sentiment is supported by a 2023 WalletHub study that ranked Port St. Lucie as one of the worst cities for singles, placing it 181st out of 182 cities surveyed.
Life After Reality TV
April’s time on The Golden Bachelor may not have ended with her finding love, but it was an experience she values nonetheless. Competing alongside Joan Vassos, who went on to find love on The Golden Bachelorette, April remains supportive of those who’ve found happiness through the franchise.
Although she no longer sees reality TV as her path to romance, April is grateful for the experience and continues to cheer on others in Bachelor Nation. “I’m glad to see people find love, even if it didn’t work out for me,” she shared.
A Season of New Beginnings
As April embraces her next chapter, she is looking forward to what life has in store. Moving to New York represents not just a physical change but an emotional and spiritual renewal—a step toward rediscovering herself and perhaps finding love in a more organic way.
April’s story is a reminder that love can happen at any stage of life, but it often requires letting go of the past to make room for new beginnings. For April, this journey is about more than romance—it’s about personal growth, resilience, and embracing change.
