Joan Vassos, a 61-year-old school administrator from Rockland, Maryland, has been named the first leading lady of ABC’s new reality dating series, “The Golden Bachelorette.”
Vassos is no stranger to the franchise, having previously appeared as a contestant on the inaugural season of “The Golden Bachelor” last fall.
During her time on “The Golden Bachelor,” Vassos developed a strong connection with Gerry Turner, the show’s lead.
However, she ultimately chose to leave the show in Week 3 to be with her daughter, who was facing a medical emergency. Vassos is a mother of four and a grandmother of two, and she was widowed after 32 years of marriage.
The announcement of Vassos as the lead of “The Golden Bachelorette” comes on the heels of the success of the inaugural season of “The Golden Bachelor.”
The series, which premiered in the 2024-2025 broadcast season, was the top-rated new alternative series among adults 18-49 measured across seven days, reaching an impressive 43.5 million viewers, according to ABC.
The network ordered “The Golden Bachelorette” to series in February, capitalizing on the popularity of the “Golden” franchise.
The series will air on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. as part of ABC’s fall schedule.
A diverse group of suitors will accompany Vassos on her search for love as she enjoys cooking, spending time with her dog, and listening to Elton John.
Claire Freeland, Jason Ehrlich, Bennett Graebner, and Andrew Frank serve as the series’ executive producers for Warner Bros. Unscripted Television in collaboration with Warner Horizon.
The announcement of Vassos as the lead of “The Golden Bachelorette” comes on the heels of the conclusion of Season 28 of “The Bachelor,” which saw Joey Graziadei proposing to Kelsey Anderson.
Additionally, Season 21 of “The Bachelorette” is set to launch on July 8, starring Jenn Tran.
The launch of “The Golden Bachelorette” represents a significant milestone for the “Bachelor” franchise, as it provides a platform for mature daters to find love.
Vassos’ story and her journey to find her second chance at love are sure to resonate with viewers and inspire others in a similar stage of life.
As the series premieres this fall, fans of the franchise can look forward to a heartwarming and engaging new chapter in the “Bachelor” universe, with Joan Vassos leading the way as the first “Golden Bachelorette.
The Information is Taken from Variety and Deadline
