Joan Vassos was the first star of The Golden Bachelorette, but it was her male suitors who stole the show. The inaugural season of The Golden Bachelorette paired Joan with 24 men who, like her, were searching for love in their sunset years. The men charmed audiences with their stories of resilience and hope. Many had lost their partners, and some were raising families on their own. Each man had a story to tell, and they were part of what made the show such a huge success.
Joan faced difficult decisions while narrowing down her impressive pool of suitors. She agonized over each rose ceremony, constantly worrying about making the wrong choice. Finally, Joan was left with two finalists: Guy Gansert and Chock Chapple. Although Guy and Joan had a growing connection, he couldn’t compete with Chock. Joan sent Guy home during the finale, and she and Chock sealed their love with an engagement. While viewers remain invested in Joan and Chock’s love story, with The Golden Bachelor season 2 approaching, viewers are anxious to see some of Joan’s other suitors return to the spotlight.
Charles Ling
Fans Were Crushed When Charles Was Eliminated
Charles Ling became one of the breakout stars of The Golden Bachelorette. He was honest, genuine, and kind-hearted. Charles won fans over with his courage when opening up about his self-doubt when comparing himself to the other men. Nevertheless, he had an open mind and was always willing to participate in group activities, even when they made him uncomfortable. Charles’ time at the mansion boosted his self-esteem, and it also provided him with some much-needed healing as his housemates helped him process the death of his wife.
Many viewers expressed their desire to see Charles go on to star in The Golden Bachelor. However, while Charles’ return to the franchise would thrill fans, a lead role may not be right for him. Although his confidence grew during his time on The Golden Bachelorette, Charles’ struggle with insecurity could be compounded by the scrutiny that comes with the role.
Jordan Heller
Jordan Left Viewers Wanting More
Jordan Heller was an unassuming contestant who almost made it to the finale. He was among Joan’s top four, along with Guy, Chock, and Pascal Ibgui. Joan saw Jordan’s potential, and her feelings for him grew after they shared a hometown date in Chicago. Unfortunately, Joan felt Jordan was too reserved and wasn’t convinced about his commitment to her. She eliminated him just before the trip to Tahiti.
He seems to have a tight bond with his fellow contestants that has extended beyond their time in the mansion.
Jordan may have left the show alone, but he’s still making the most of his experience. He seems to have a tight bond with his fellow contestants that has extended beyond their time in the mansion. In December 2024, Jordan posted photos that showed him hanging out with Chock, Gil Ramirez, Dan Roemer, and Keith Gordon. He also spent time with The Golden Bachelor’s Leslie Fhima, proving he’s integrating himself well within the franchise.
Despite lasting nearly the entire season, Jordan remained somewhat mysterious. He was slow to open up and often guarded his feelings. While this contributed to Joan’s decision to eliminate Jordan, it’s also what makes viewers long to see more of him. His social media presence suggests he isn’t yet tired of his Golden Bachelorette fame, and it hints that viewers may not have seen the last of him.
Mark Anderson
Mark Was An Instant Fan Favorite
Joan was joined on The Golden Bachelorette by one familiar face: Mark Anderson, the father of The Bachelor’s Kelsey Anderson. Mark was easygoing and authentic and forged a strong bond with Joan and the other men. Viewers instantly felt acquainted with Mark because of his connection to Kelsey, which made him an automatic fan favorite. After his elimination, many viewers suggested Mark would be a perfect Golden Bachelor.
Unfortunately, it seems unlikely Mark will return to the franchise anytime soon. He’s now in a relationship with One Tree Hill actress Barbara Alyn Woods, with the couple first appearing on social media together in October 2024. Mark and Barbara keep their relationship quiet but seem enamored with one another. While fans are happy Mark has found love, they would still welcome the opportunity to see more of his story.
Pascal Ibgui
Pascal Made Shocking Comments Following His Departure
Pascal emerged as the most polarizing figure on The Golden Bachelorette. He was among Joan’s top three before self-eliminating due to not having strong feelings for her. Pascal faced backlash for breaking Joan’s heart and for comments he made criticizing Chock and calling him a stalker. Pascal’s sharp tongue made him entertaining to watch, but he’s likely too much of a liability to have any future with the franchise. But considering Pascal’s business savvy, it wouldn’t be surprising if he found another avenue to take advantage of his newfound fame.
The men of The Golden Bachelorette restored Joan’s hope to find love after loss. But even more importantly, they displayed vulnerability that touched the hearts of both viewers and each other. Each of the mansion men had been through their own challenges, but they were all willing to put themselves out there and open their hearts to the unknown. Their time in the spotlight was brief, leaving fans wanting to see more even long after their departures.
