The Golden Bachelor, a dating reality show hailing from the United States, made its debut on ABC on September 28, 2023, with Jesse Palmer as its host, mirroring its original series. The show features Gerry Turner, a 72-year-old retired restaurant owner and widower from Hudson, Indiana, in the lead role.tu The series premiere of “The Golden Bachelor” was anything but ordinary, as Gerry Turner, the first senior-citizen Bachelor, welcomed a group of 22 hopeful candidates ranging from ages 60 to 75. Amid the anticipation, viewers were treated to a night of drama, laughter, and unexpected moments.
Widower Gerry Turner, a lively 72-year-old, broke his promise to his grandkids not to kiss anyone on the first night. He led the way in making the evening unforgettable with his dance moves and charming personality. The episode was filled with behind-the-back intrigue, melodrama, and moments of pure oddness, ensuring that the show maintained the same elements that fans of the franchise have come to love.
The recent premiere of “The Golden Bachelor” radiates optimism and romanticism in portraying dating during the senior years. This show introduces a cast of individuals who have already experienced the richness of life and are not seeking fame on platforms like TikTok. Throughout the hour-long season opener, both Gerry Turner and the contestants emphasize the importance of positive representation in a culture that often disregards older individuals.
Gerry turner
Turner, who humorously admits to not understanding the term “rizz,” frequently admires the women’s grace and poise. The episode commences with his preparations for the first limo night, highlighting his hearing aids on the counter, underscoring the importance of embracing the realities of aging in a world that often focuses on youth.
But what truly shone through on this premiere was the excitement and hope for new love among the contestants who had previously feared that their chances at romance might be behind them. As one contestant, Faith, aptly put it, “We may not be as tight-skinned or in shape, but I am not dead yet.”
Turner’s mission
Turner’s mission statement is clear: “People my age still fall in love; people my age still have hope, and they still lead vibrant lives,” he declared in an interview with The New York Times. The contestants encompass a diverse range of backgrounds, including a fitness instructor, teachers, and even a “pro-aging coach and midlife speaker.” Nearly everyone mentions their children, grandchildren, and the experiences of deceased or divorced former spouses.
April, a 65-year-old therapist, entered the scene with confidence. She immediately grabbed Gerry’s hand and swept him away for some one-on-one time, much to the surprise of the other contestants. Her bold move earned her a rose, ensuring she stayed on for the next week.
70th birthday
Theresa celebrated her 70th birthday on the first night and, although her choice to show off her “birthday suit” was unconventional, it won Gerry over. The two shared a memorable moment as he playfully smeared birthday cake on his lips, anticipating a kiss from her, which he received. Theresa secured a rose, keeping her in the running.
Faith, a 60-year-old high school teacher, made a lasting impression by arriving on a motorcycle and serenading Gerry with an impressive guitar solo. Her unique entrance earned her the first impression rose, setting her apart from the competition.
Sandra, at 75 years old, captivated Gerry with her tranquil demeanour and a soothing voice. Her entrance, filled with expletives, piqued his interest, and she, too, secured a rose for the next round.
Leslie, a 64-year-old fitness instructor, made a surprising entrance using a walker, only to later ditch it and reveal that she had dated Prince and claimed that he wrote “Sexy Dancer” about her. Her shocking revelation left an indelible mark on the episode, and she, too, received a rose.
Jimmy Kimmel
Jimmy Kimmel’s Aunt Chippy, a boisterous 83-year-old, made an unforgettable cameo, bringing humour and energy to the Bachelor Mansion. Her lively presence and witty comments added a unique charm to the episode, even if she did nod off during the rose ceremony.
The 22 women who make their appearance in the first episode are also on a quest for companionship. Each of them carries their own unique life story, filled with heartaches, disappointments, and moments of joy. This diverse background represents a missed opportunity for the episode. Unlike standard Bachelor seasons, these contestants have extensive life experiences, yet we are only offered glimpses of their narratives. Ellen, at 71, decided to join the show to support her close friend, a fellow Bachelor Nation member, who was battling cancer. Theresa, at 69, was recovering from the loss of her spouse, and Leslie, an active dancer at 64, once had a romantic history with the famous musician Prince.
Golden Bachelor
All the contestants previously highlighted successfully make it past the first night. The first rose that isn’t a “first impression” rose goes to Ellen, who happens to be a friend of Roberta, and the final rose is given to Kirkland Signature Jenner. Unfortunately, this means bidding farewell to some contestants tonight, including Peggy, who is not the “Golden Bachelor,” and Aunt Chippy, the witty companion of Jimmy Kimmel. Aunt Chippy’s role was primarily to humorously showcase her penchant for snoozing during the early-morning rose ceremony, all in the spirit of Disney-ABC Television Corporate Synergy Fusio. (A nod of gratitude for her entertaining presence.)
In addition to these highlights, 11 other contestants received roses, promising more drama, love, and laughter in the episodes to come. “The Golden Bachelor” is set to deliver a season filled with tears, smooches, and captivating moments, ensuring that viewers are in for an entertaining and emotional journey as they follow Gerry Turner’s quest for love.
Premiere
As a glimpse of what’s in store later this season is captured in the closing montage of the premiere, there are some challenging moments ahead. Gerry, at one point, exclaims in frustration, “The only time he’s ever felt worse in his whole life is when his wife passed away, and this is a goddamn close second,” though the exact cause of this outburst remains a mystery. But rest assured, the viewers will venture through these uncharted waters together.
With the promise of more drama and heartfelt moments in future episodes, “The Golden Bachelor” has set the stage for an engaging and unforgettable season. Tune in to experience the excitement, laughter, and romance that this unique senior edition of the Bachelor franchise has to offer. In the meantime, the audience is encouraged to enjoy the sweetness of this show with open arms.
