Charles Ling, the charismatic 66-year-old retired data analyst, captured the hearts of The Golden Bachelorette viewers during its inaugural season. Encouraged by his two daughters to join the show, Charles was a standout contestant who competed for Joan Vassos’ heart. His journey resonated deeply with audiences as he navigated the lingering grief of losing his wife of 36 years.
While Charles was a fan favorite, and many—including myself—once thought he’d make the perfect lead for The Golden Bachelor, I’ve changed my mind. Here’s why I believe Charles may not be the next face of the franchise despite the overwhelming support from Bachelor Nation.
A Fan-Favorite Who Brought Laughter and Heart
Charles stood out immediately with his humor and warmth, delivering one-liners like “Charles not in charge,” which became an iconic catchphrase of the season. His genuine personality, deep love for his late wife, and willingness to open up about his emotional journey made him a breakout star.
Even after his elimination, Joan expressed her affection for Charles, and his popularity continued to soar. At the “Men Tell All” special, he was showered with love from fans and contestants alike, earning the nickname “The Internet’s Boyfriend.” Social media buzzed with calls for him to take on the role of The Golden Bachelor.
Reddit threads were ablaze with posts like “Protect Charles at all costs,” with many declaring him the ideal choice for the next lead. As one fan put it, “Golden Bachelor just got the lead they never knew they needed! Charles L is the best man to come from the golden franchise so far!”
A Reluctant Star
Despite the outpouring of support, Charles’ reaction to the idea of becoming the next Golden Bachelor was less enthusiastic. When asked about his newfound fame and the possibility of leading the show, Charles expressed gratitude but seemed genuinely surprised by the attention.
“I’m kind of thrilled,” he admitted. “It’s a big surprise—I never thought I’d be loved to this extent.” However, when fans at the “Men Tell All” rallied for him to become the next lead, his response was notably hesitant:
“I’ll see what will happen and what I should do, but … not at this moment.”
Charles appeared uneasy about the idea of stepping into such a demanding role. Being the lead requires juggling multiple relationships, navigating complex emotions, and handling the spotlight—all of which could be overwhelming for someone as sensitive and introspective as Charles.
Is Charles Still Single?
Another potential obstacle to Charles becoming the next Golden Bachelor is his relationship status. While his current status remains unclear, rumors suggest he may already be off the market. Since the show aired, Charles has been busy traveling, engaging with fans, and spending time with Bachelor Nation alumni.
His recent Instagram activity—or lack thereof—has sparked speculation. While some see his social media quietness as a sign he might be preparing for the role, others, like myself, view it as an indication that he’s focused on his personal life and enjoying his newfound popularity.
Why Charles May Not Be the Right Fit
Ultimately, while Charles is beloved by fans, his reserved nature and reluctance to embrace the role suggest he might struggle with the pressures of being the next lead. As one Redditor aptly put it, “I would love to see Charles find love, but I don’t think he could carry the show alone.”
Additionally, if Charles is indeed dating or preoccupied with personal pursuits, it’s possible he’s not even available for the role. For now, it seems Charles is content to enjoy life outside the spotlight while fans continue to root for his happiness.
