BALTIMORE — ABC has officially announced that Joan Vassos, a 61-year-old grandmother and school administrator from Maryland, will be the first star of “The Golden Bachelorette.” This exciting new series is set to premiere this fall, although a specific start date has yet to be revealed. The show will air on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. and will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day.
Joan Vassos, who resides in Rockville, Maryland, is not just a contestant; she is a vibrant personality who captured the hearts of viewers during her brief appearance on “The Golden Bachelor,” where she competed for Gerry Turner’s affection. Unfortunately, she had to leave the show early due to a family emergency, but her journey is far from over.
Here are five key things to know about Joan Vassos, the inaugural “Golden Bachelorette.”
First and foremost, Joan is a proud graduate of the University of Maryland, where she earned a degree in computer science. Currently, she works as a school administrator in alumni relations at Landon School in Bethesda. Her educational background and professional experience reflect her dedication to nurturing young minds and fostering community connections.
Family is at the heart of Joan’s life. She is a devoted mother to four children—two sons and two daughters. When her daughter faced postpartum health issues, Joan made the difficult decision to leave “The Golden Bachelor” to prioritize her family. She expressed her commitment to motherhood on social media, stating, “I traded the mansion for motherhood. … Family comes first, period. Once a mother, always a mother. I’ll always choose my kids first.” This sentiment resonates deeply with many viewers who appreciate her values.
Despite her warm and nurturing nature, Joan has admitted to experiencing stage fright. During a talent show on “The Golden Bachelor,” she initially hesitated to perform, feeling she had no talent to showcase. However, she surprised everyone by winning the competition with a heartfelt poem titled “I Just Hope I Don’t Vomit on Your Shoes.” This moment highlighted her ability to connect with others through humor and vulnerability.
Joan is also known for her culinary skills, particularly her famous chicken soup, which her mother affectionately calls “the best.” Her recipe includes a delightful mix of ingredients, showcasing her love for cooking and family traditions. This personal touch adds to her charm and relatability as a contestant.
Having been married for 32 years, Joan experienced profound loss when her husband, John, passed away from cancer in 2021. Reflecting on their life together, she shared, “I loved being married. He was a character, and we had a very happy life together.” This loss has shaped her perspective on love and relationships, making her journey on “The Golden Bachelorette” all the more poignant.
Joan’s journey to find love again has been a gradual process. After her husband’s passing, she took time to heal before considering dating. In a candid interview, she revealed that it took her two years to feel ready to open her heart again. She described a moment of realization while dining at a restaurant, where she noticed that everyone around her was part of a couple. This prompted her to seek love once more, leading her to apply for “The Golden Bachelor.” Her story is one of resilience and hope, resonating with many who have faced similar challenges.
As the first “Golden Bachelorette,” Joan Vassos is poised to bring her unique perspective and life experiences to the forefront of the show. Her journey will not only focus on finding love but also on celebrating the richness of life that comes with age. The series promises to highlight the emotional maturity and wisdom of its contestants, offering a refreshing take on the dating reality genre.
Joan’s story is not just about romance; it’s about embracing life’s possibilities at any age. As she embarks on this new chapter, she carries with her the love and support of her family, friends, and fans who are eager to see her find happiness again. The anticipation for “The Golden Bachelorette” continues to grow, with viewers excited to witness Joan’s journey unfold.
In a heartfelt message to Joan, Gerry Turner, the star of “The Golden Bachelor,” expressed his support for her new role. He wrote on Instagram, “Dear Joan, Congratulations on being named the first ever ‘Golden Bachelorette.’ You will be phenomenal as the new representative of a generation. From one Golden to another… relax, breathe and enjoy.” This camaraderie between the two highlights the sense of community that has developed among the contestants and fans alike.
As the premiere date approaches, fans are eager to learn more about Joan’s journey and the other contestants who will join her in the quest for love. The show aims to create an uplifting atmosphere, focusing on the joys and challenges of dating later in life. With a cast of women who have lived through love, loss, and laughter, “The Golden Bachelorette” promises to be a celebration of life and love.
Joan Vassos is ready to embrace this new adventure, and her story is sure to inspire many. As she steps into the spotlight, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of those who believe that love knows no age. The journey ahead is filled with possibilities, and viewers are excited to see where it leads.
As the first “Golden Bachelorette,” Joan Vassos is not just a contestant; she is a beacon of hope for those seeking love and connection later in life. Her story is a reminder that it’s never too late to find happiness and that love can blossom in unexpected ways.
With the premiere of “The Golden Bachelorette” on the horizon, fans are counting down the days until they can witness Joan’s journey unfold on their screens. The excitement is palpable, and the anticipation for this groundbreaking series continues to build.
As Joan prepares to take this leap of faith, she embodies the spirit of resilience and the belief that love is always worth pursuing. Her journey is a testament to the power of love, family, and the courage to embrace new beginnings.
Source: Fox News Digital, Hollywood Reporter
