A twist on Bachelor tradition
Episode 4 of The Golden Bachelor offered fans a surprising blend of intimacy and emotional maturity rarely seen in the franchise’s typical overnight setups. While the format has often leaned on physical chemistry and drama, Gerry Turner’s journey took a more tender and heartfelt route as he offered one lucky woman a one-on-one date that included a romantic overnight. But even as love blossomed, a shocking departure shook the mansion.
The first overnight date: Leslie gets the rose—and more
Leslie was the recipient of this season’s first and only overnight date—a rare occurrence this early in a Bachelor-style competition. Gerry surprised her with a day full of quiet charm: a scenic walk, deep conversations, and a surprise outdoor hot tub under the stars. But it wasn’t the setting that captivated viewers—it was the ease and joy the two shared together.
They laughed, danced, and eventually opened up about their lives in the quiet moments. Gerry shared personal details about losing his wife and the loneliness that followed. Leslie, in turn, talked about feeling overlooked in relationships and how she worried about being too much or not enough. It was a poignant exchange, and Gerry’s decision to offer her an overnight stay wasn’t taken lightly.
Unlike previous Bachelor iterations, this wasn’t framed as a sexual moment. In fact, it was explicitly about emotional closeness and comfort. The next morning, both Leslie and Gerry described the experience as “deeply bonding.” It became clear that Leslie had emerged as a top contender.
Theresa faces tension in the house
Meanwhile, back at the mansion, Theresa began to feel the pressure. Once considered a top front-runner after her early one-on-one date with Gerry, she now felt isolated. Some of the women accused her of bragging about her connection with Gerry, and while she insisted that wasn’t her intention, the friction caused her to retreat.
Faith, in particular, called out Theresa’s comments as thoughtless, which led to a tearful confrontation. Gerry didn’t seem to be aware of the brewing drama, but it was clear the dynamics in the house were beginning to shift as the competition narrowed.
Marina’s emotional exit
The biggest surprise came when Marina—who had quietly built a strong, if under-the-radar, connection with Gerry—decided to leave the show. During a candid conversation, she explained that her daughter was going through a health crisis at home, and she could no longer justify being away. Gerry was visibly emotional, and the two shared a heartfelt goodbye.
Their conversation was mature and filled with mutual respect. Gerry thanked her for her honesty and told her he admired her strength as a mother. It was a powerful reminder that life outside the show doesn’t pause, even for love.
The rose ceremony: Emotions run high
With Marina gone, the rose ceremony was especially intense. Faith, Ellen, Theresa, and Leslie remained, each hoping to receive a rose. Gerry, clearly still processing Marina’s departure, took his time. Ultimately, all four women received roses, meaning that the episode closed without an elimination—though not without heartbreak.
Viewers respond to Marina’s decision
Fans responded with an outpouring of support for Marina online. Many praised her for putting her family first and appreciated the show’s handling of her story with sensitivity. Others speculated about what could have been, wondering if she might have been the “one” had circumstances been different.
What’s next for Gerry and the final four?
With hometowns on the horizon, Gerry’s journey is rapidly approaching its most pivotal moments. The connections are now deeper than ever, and the emotional toll is starting to show—not just for Gerry, but for the women who have placed their hearts on the line.
As The Golden Bachelor continues to defy expectations, one thing is becoming clear: this love story may be unlike anything the franchise has told before.
