A new chapter in love: Meet the cast of ‘The Golden Bachelorette’

Joan Vassos: A journey to find love again

Joan Vassos is about to embark on a unique adventure as the first-ever lead of “The Golden Bachelorette”. ABC recently unveiled the full cast of 24 men vying for the heart of Vassos, 61. Among the suitors is Mark Anderson, a familiar face to fans of the franchise, as he is the father of Kelsey Anderson, who won Joey Graziadei’s heart on “The Bachelor” Season 28.

Joan’s background and interests

Audiences were first introduced to Vassos during Gerry Turner’s season of “The Golden Bachelor” last year. A school administrator by profession, Joan is a mother of four and a grandmother of two. After 32 years of marriage, she was widowed. Her interests include listening to Elton John, cooking, and spending time with her dog and family. Joan finds her happiest moments at the beach and is looking for a man who can blend seamlessly into her family.

During “The Golden Bachelor”, Joan and Turner formed a strong bond early on. However, she had to leave the show in week three to support her daughter through a medical emergency.

The success of ‘The Golden Bachelor’

“The Golden Bachelor” became ABC’s top unscripted premiere ever on Hulu and ranked as the No. 1 new reality series in its demographic. According to ABC, the series has reached 43.5 million viewers. The season, filmed over four weeks last summer, culminated in a finale that drew 6.1 million viewers, marking the biggest Bachelor Nation episode in nearly three years. The finale was followed by a wedding special where Turner and Theresa Nist tied the knot on live television in January, although the couple split three months later.

“The Bachelorette” and “The Golden Bachelorette” are produced by Warner Bros. Unscripted Television and Warner Horizon. Season 21 of “The Bachelorette”, led by Jennifer Tran, is currently airing on ABC.

Meet the suitors

Bill

Location: Portland, Oregon
Occupation: Retired Videographer, 68

Bill is an outgoing and charismatic man ready to meet his soulmate. A retired video producer, he describes himself as a hopeless romantic, saying, “I am Latin; romance is in my blood!” Bill enjoys his retired life but is eager to find someone to share his golden years with. He has two daughters from his previous marriage, who are supportive of his journey to find love. Bill loves playing guitar, public speaking, and rocking out to the Beatles. He hopes meeting Joan will end his search for a future wife.

Fun Facts:

Bill is a member of two Toastmasters clubs.
He dreams of owning a coffee shop named Billy Beans.
He is currently watching every Academy Award® Best Picture winner.

Bob

Location: Marina Del Rey, Calif.
Occupation: Chiropractor, 66

Bob is a chiropractor and avid surfer ready to see if he and Joan have the chemistry he’s been searching for. After a divorce, Bob is open to finding love again and hopes to meet a kind, patient, and compassionate woman. Dedicated to his work, Bob loves helping people. In his free time, he enjoys ocean swims, watching Pixar movies, and eating dark chocolate. Bob is serious about finding love and is excited to start this journey.

Fun Facts:

Bob loves walking with his dog, Clarence.
He avoids fast food.
He enjoys in-line skating but only on quads.

Charles K.

Location: Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.
Occupation: Portfolio Manager, 62

Charles K. is a sweet and handsome portfolio manager with strong family values. He is proud of his work but considers his five children his greatest accomplishment. Charles K. enjoys playing basketball, dancing, exercising, and exploring the outdoors. He takes his style seriously and wants to prove that men over 60 still have game, charm, and swag. He has traveled the world looking for love and is open to living anywhere for the right connection.

Fun Facts:

Charles K. loves kayaking.
He enjoys sleeping in on Saturday mornings.
He is proud of his work building homes in rural Nicaragua.

Charles L.

Location: Philadelphia, Penn.
Occupation: Retired Financial Analyst, 66

Charles L. is a retired data analyst and father of two, ready for a second chance at true love. He grew up in rural China and moved to the United States with only $20 in his pocket. Now, he is ready to risk it all for love and hopes Joan can match his kind heart, sense of humor, and sweet soul. Charles L. is looking for someone intelligent and kind. If he could see anyone in concert, it would be Britney Spears.

Fun Facts:

Charles L. dreams of going to the moon.
He loves fishing and making his own fishing nets.
His favorite TV show is the NBA Finals.

Chock

Location: Wichita, Kansas
Occupation: Insurance Executive, 60

Chock is a kind and adventurous man with a successful career owning his own business. He has a full life with his kids, his black Lab Super Tubbs, and his work, but he knows he is missing love. Chock believes love can be found at any age and is enthusiastic about finding that spark again. He hopes to meet an adventurous and compassionate woman. In his free time, Chock enjoys exercising and rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs. He also loves shopping and can’t resist a good sale.

Fun Facts:

Chock is a self-proclaimed grill master.
He once went nighttime shark diving in Australia.
He hopes Chevy Camaros with T-tops make a comeback.

“The Golden Bachelorette” premieres on ABC on Sept. 18 at 8 p.m. ET. Get ready to follow Joan and her suitors on this exciting journey to find love.# Meet the golden bachelors: A journey to find love in the golden years

In the world of reality TV, the quest for love knows no age limits. This season, we are introduced to a group of distinguished gentlemen, each with a unique story and a heart full of hope. These men are ready to embark on a journey to find love with our Golden Bachelorette, Joan. Let’s dive into their lives and see what makes each of them a perfect match for Joan.

Christopher S.: The family man with a heart of gold

West Babylon, N.Y.
Contractor, 64

Christopher is a proud father and grandfather who is ready to say goodbye to his single days. Owning a construction company is a significant part of his life, but his greatest accomplishments are his three kids and seven grandkids. Christopher is looking for a genuine connection with a sincere woman and can see a future with Joan. He believes it’s never too late to find love and has high hopes for this journey. In his free time, Christopher loves exercising and cooking healthy meals. He would love to cook for Joan and is ready to whip up her favorite dish if she has an appetite for a delicious meal with a handsome date!

Fun Facts:

Christopher loves that his birthday is on Christmas Eve!
Christopher loves Earth, Wind & Fire.
Christopher loves bowling with his grandkids.

Dan R.: The optimistic investor

Naples, Fla.
Private Investor, 64

Dan is a handsome catch with a big heart. The private investor is an optimistic, loyal, and open-minded guy who loves the simple things in life, like enjoying a Saturday morning at the farmers market. He deeply values his close relationship with the women in his life, like his two daughters and his sister. Dan says he’s currently the happiest he’s ever been and just wants to meet the right woman to live out his golden years with. He hasn’t had much luck with dating recently, so Dan is excited about the opportunity to meet our Golden Bachelorette. We can’t wait to see if he and Joan hit it off!

Fun Facts:

Dan loves to picnic at the beach.
Dan loves to sing, just not in public.
Dan is a big reader of historical biographies.

David H.: The thoughtful rancher

Austin, Texas
Rancher, 68

David is a sweet soul who’s ready to find love! He’s thoughtful, sensitive, and kind and has dedicated his life to being there for others. He put a pause on dating for 16 years to focus on his kids but is now ready to meet the love of his life and ride off into the sunset together. David loves running marathons and spontaneously booking flights to new destinations. He’s hoping his future wife will want to travel the world with him and share new experiences during their golden years. Joan, we know you’re looking for a life partner, but do you need a travel buddy, too?

Fun Facts:

David’s hero is his 91-year-old mother.
David loves to indulge in a cold beer on a hot day.
David loves breakfast tacos.

Gary L.: The musical charmer

Palm Desert, Calif.
Retired Finance Executive, 65

Handsome Gary has a zest for life that lights up every room he enters! He loves the retired life in Palm Desert, where he enjoys taking spin classes, golfing, and watching “The View.” Gary is the godson of the legendary Tina Turner and is also very musically gifted, with a beautiful singing voice and killer dance moves. The charming father of two says his dating life has been nonexistent, but he couldn’t be more ready to meet his soulmate. Gary is hoping to meet a kind, caring, and intelligent woman to travel the world with. He dreams of owning a home in the South of France, so Joan, we hope you’re ready to bon voyage with Gary!

Fun Facts:

Gary loves the spa.
Gary says bring back disco!
Gary rides hard for the USC Trojans.

Gil R.: The romantic educator

Mission Viejo, Calif.
Educator, 60

Gil is the perfect combination of romantic, sweet, and emotional. This educator is ready for love again and misses that feeling of knowing you’re with the right person. The father of two wants to show the world that men can be committed and want the same kinds of relationships that women do during their golden years. Gil loves going to comedy clubs with his friends and indulging in a relaxing foot massage in his free time. He knows retirement is on the horizon for him and dreams of living in Hawaii by the beach with the partner he is walking through the rest of his life with. Gil’s favorite way to show affection is holding hands, and he’s reaching out for Joan’s hand, hoping she’s the one he’s been waiting for.

Fun Facts:

Gil is a skilled juggler.
Gil’s favorite book is “The Bridges of Madison County.”
Gil loves road-tripping, especially with his family.

Gregg L.: The empathetic intellectual

Longboat Key, Fla.
Retired University Vice President, 64

Gregg is ready to receive the love and care he gives to so many others. He is empathetic, passionate, well-read, and has a great sense of humor. He says that he believes love allows people to be the best version of themselves and is truly ready to let love in again. He enjoys spending time with his three daughters, and they love watching Bachelor Nation shows together as a family. Gregg and his dog, FlipFlop, are a package deal, so Joan better get ready for some puppy love! How does a dog-park date sound?!

Fun Facts:

Gregg wears flip-flops 90% of the time.
Gregg loves root beer floats.
Gregg recently traveled to Rwanda to hike with gorillas.

Guy C.: The charismatic doctor

Reno, Nev.
Emergency Room Doctor, 66

Guy is ready to put himself out there for our Golden Bachelorette! The emergency room physician has dedicated nearly 40 years to helping others as a doctor, and he is excited about the opportunity to meet someone to share the rest of his life with. Guy is charismatic, confident, and romantic and is looking for a woman who is intelligent and funny. He loves spending time with his four kids and grandchild and wants to prove to the world that older men still have a zest for life. Guy does NOT fit the “grumpy old man” stereotype and knows he has a lot of life left to live. He is a big believer in chivalry and wants to make Joan feel extra special. Guy is a total catch, and we think Joan will have no trouble seeing that!

Fun Facts:

Guy is planning to hike Mount Kilimanjaro this fall.
Guy dreams about the Dallas Cowboys winning a Super Bowl.
Guy is a Beatlemaniac.

Jack L.: The culinary romantic

Chicago, Ill.
Caterer, 68

Does Jack have an appetite for love? Yes, chef! The retired restaurant owner and chef has a big personality and loves spending time in the kitchen. Jack is ready to treat Joan like the queen she is and wants to cook a five-star meal just for her. The father and grandfather loves making people laugh and is looking to find his travel partner for life. He went on a solo trip to Italy last year and it made him realize that he truly wants someone to enjoy the world with. Jack is a big softie who just wants to tell his partner that he loves them every morning and every night before bed. He truly believes that love is within reach, and we hope he’s right!

Fun Facts:

Jack is a proud racquetball champion.
On May 22, 1977, Jack was sitting in the front row at Elvis’ last concert in Chicago.
Jack’s favorite treat is a cigar, twice a month.

Jonathan R.: The positive dreamer

Oakland, Iowa
Shipping Consultant, 61

A guy like Jonathan is every woman’s dream! The materials specialist is full of life, love, and positivity, and he’s ready to share it all with Joan. Jonathan is looking for a partner who can match his enthusiasm for life and his love for adventure. He enjoys spending time with his family and friends and is always up for a new challenge. Jonathan believes that the best is yet to come and is excited about the possibility of finding love with Joan.

Fun Facts:

Jonathan loves hiking and exploring new trails.
Jonathan is a big fan of classic rock music.
Jonathan enjoys volunteering at local animal shelters.

As these gentlemen embark on their journey to find love, we can’t help but root for each of them. Their stories are a testament to the fact that love knows no age and that it’s never too late to find your soulmate. Joan, we hope you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime with one of these incredible men!# Meet the golden bachelors: A journey to find love in the golden years

Jonathan H. – The art lover

Jonathan, a 61-year-old museum enthusiast from New York, is ready to dive back into the dating pool. With two kids as his top priority, Jonathan balances his time between family and his passions. He enjoys live theater and spending time with his three pets—a dog, a cat, and a floppy-eared rabbit. Jonathan’s golden years are filled with the hope of finding a meaningful connection with Joan.

Fun Facts:

Jonathan loves amusement park funnel cake.
He once considered becoming a bodybuilder.
He starts every day with two cups of coffee in bed.

Jordan H. – The family man

Jordan, a 61-year-old sales manager from Chicago, is a glass-half-full kind of guy. Extremely family-oriented, he is close with his three daughters and three brothers. When not working, Jordan enjoys walking his dog, Mickey, along the lake, indulging in deep-dish pizza, and playing ping-pong. He hopes to find someone who loves being outside and trying new restaurants.

Fun Facts:

Jordan misses the days when visitors would stop by unannounced.
He won two “Mr. Legs” contests in college.
He loves Thanksgiving for the food, family, and football.

Keith G. – The social butterfly

Keith, a 62-year-old sales director from San Jose, lights up every room he enters. Standing at 6-foot-5, Keith is a social butterfly with a big personality. Having dedicated most of his adult life to raising his daughters, he is now ready to prioritize finding love. Keith believes age is just a number and is excited about the possibility of falling for Joan.

Fun Facts:

Keith is the king of cornhole, or “bags,” as he calls it.
His life goal is to play a round of golf at Augusta National.
He had the BEST time at Stagecoach this past year.

Ken O. – The active adventurer

Ken, a 60-year-old property management treasurer from Peabody, Mass., is described as honest, adventurous, and active. He has run many marathons, plays tennis, and loves cycling. Ken is looking for a partner with a good sense of humor who can keep up with his on-the-go lifestyle. He is excited about the opportunity to find love with Joan.

Fun Facts:

Ken is a Miley Cyrus stan.
He’s told he’s a bad driver, but he’s not buying it.
His greatest dream is to throw out the first pitch at Fenway Park.

Kim B. – The retired navy captain

Kim, a 69-year-old retired naval officer from Seattle, is ready to sail off into the sunset with Joan. He loves spending time on his sailboat and dreams of taking Joan for a romantic ride as the sun goes down. Kim is sincere and generous, and he is a proud father and grandfather. His ideal date night includes cooking dinner together and enjoying it in the backyard.

Fun Facts:

Kim is an excellent whistler.
His favorite food as a child was clam cakes.
He would love to learn how to play the piano.

Mark A. – The army veteran

Mark, a 57-year-old army veteran from Leesville, La., is ready for love after loss. Inspired by his daughter Kelsey Anderson’s love story, Mark is excited about this chance to find love again. He is empathetic and warm, having dedicated his life to working for the military. Mark loves traveling to visit his kids and hopes to meet a woman to plant roots with again.

Fun Facts:

Mark is terrified of ostriches.
His favorite movie is “Elf.”
He can wiggle his ears.

Michael S. – The sweet soul

Michael, a 65-year-old retired banking CEO from Denver, N.C., is ready to find the one. A dad of two sons, Michael is compassionate, creative, and intelligent. He enjoys reading, watching movies, and exploring Chicago’s botanical gardens. Michael is excited for the chance to fall in love again and can’t wait for his “Golden Bachelorette” journey to begin.

Fun Facts:

Michael went to Lollapalooza three times … all in his 50s!
He is terrified of talent shows.
He is a Swiftie.

Pablo – The worldly gentleman

Pablo, a 63-year-old retired UN agency director from Cambridge, Md., spends his days saving lives and his evenings watching reruns of his favorite sitcoms. Originally from Buenos Aires, Pablo enjoys visiting his kids and grandkids, running ultramarathons, and watching rugby. He is a big believer that we can learn, play, and explore new things at any age.

Fun Facts:

Pablo has a degree in geographical engineering.
He is a sucker for rom-coms and cries in almost all romantic scenes.

These golden bachelors are ready to embark on a journey to find love with Joan. Each brings a unique set of experiences and passions, making this an exciting adventure for all involved.# Meet the charming contestants of ‘The Golden Bachelorette’

Pascal: A French romantic with a zest for life

Pascal, a 69-year-old salon owner from Chicago, is ready to say, “Eiffel in love!” This French business owner is on a quest to find his soulmate and can’t wait to meet our Golden Bachelorette. A proud father and grandfather, Pascal’s family is his pride and joy. When he’s not working, he loves going to the theater, trying new restaurants, and attending concerts. He enjoys the finer things in life and, while he admits he’s not a great cook, he proudly states, “I make great reservations!”

Pascal’s romantic nature is deeply ingrained in his French heritage. He’s looking for a woman who is passionate, full of life, and intelligent. Pascal is ready to start the next chapter of his life and is searching for the right woman to stand by his side. Oui are rooting for you, Pascal!

Fun facts about Pascal:

Pascal loves taking his grandson to the aquarium.
He played a lot of tennis back in the day.
In another life, Pascal would have loved to be a fashion designer.

RJ: The financial adviser with a heart of gold

RJ, a 66-year-old financial adviser from Irvine, California, is a towering figure at 6-foot-5. He describes himself as the happiest person he knows and is eager to share that happiness with a special someone. Despite being in his golden years, RJ believes, “Us old guys are still vibrant and suitable for love!”

When he’s not working, RJ enjoys playing poker and golf, and he loves good food and good company. His guilty pleasures include warm chocolate chip cookies and long walks on the beach. RJ is on the lookout for his “forever snuggle bunny” and hopes that Joan will be the storybook ending he’s been dreaming of.

Fun facts about RJ:

RJ’s favorite Christmas movie is “Die Hard.”
He has visited 47 of the United States.
RJ loves to read spy novels.

Thomas H.: The FDNY chief with a heart on fire

Thomas, a 62-year-old FDNY chief from New York City, is ready to ignite the flames of love. This firefighter is a great catch and is thrilled about the opportunity to find love again. A father of three, Thomas is very close with his kids. When he’s not working hard at the firehouse, he enjoys playing the ukulele, eating ice cream, and listening to Elton John while strolling through Central Park.

Thomas is a self-proclaimed great gift-giver and hopes that Joan is ready to be showered with tokens of his affection. With a hilarious and sarcastic sense of humor, Thomas doesn’t take life too seriously but knows the future is bright. He’s ready to sweep Joan off her feet!

Fun facts about Thomas:

Thomas knows how to ride a unicycle.
He used to own a crêperie in Rhode Island.
Thomas is a big skier and an even bigger après-skier.

Personal reflections for enthusiasts

For those who love cinema, TV series, and music, these contestants bring a rich tapestry of experiences and interests that resonate with many of us. Pascal’s love for theater and concerts, RJ’s passion for good food and spy novels, and Thomas’s eclectic hobbies like playing the ukulele and skiing, all paint a vivid picture of lives well-lived and full of stories.

Cinema and TV series enthusiasts

Pascal’s love for the theater might remind you of the magic of live performances. If you’re a fan of musicals or plays, you might find a kindred spirit in Pascal. For those who enjoy a good spy thriller, RJ’s love for spy novels could spark a conversation about your favorite espionage films or series. And Thomas’s adventures in Central Park with Elton John’s music playing in the background could evoke scenes from classic New York-based movies.

Music lovers

Pascal’s concert-going habits and Thomas’s fondness for Elton John highlight the universal language of music that connects us all. Whether you’re into rock, classical, or pop, there’s something about these contestants’ musical tastes that might resonate with your own.

In-depth analysis and distinctive comments

Each contestant brings a unique flavor to the show, reflecting the diverse tapestry of life experiences and passions. Pascal’s romantic nature and love for the finer things in life suggest a man who appreciates beauty and elegance. RJ’s vibrant personality and zest for life indicate a man who values joy and companionship. Thomas’s eclectic hobbies and close family ties reveal a man who cherishes both adventure and connection.

These contestants are not just looking for love; they are looking for someone to share their rich, multifaceted lives with. Their stories remind us that love and passion don’t fade with age; they evolve, becoming deeper and more meaningful.

Explore more

For those interested in diving deeper into the worlds of these fascinating contestants, here are some links to explore:

These links provide a gateway to the interests and passions of Pascal, RJ, and Thomas, offering a richer understanding of the men behind the profiles.