The Golden Bachelorette is scheduled to air this fall. ABC turned to social media Tuesday evening (April 14) to announce its leading lady, Joan Vassos. 

The blonde bombshell will serve as the franchise's first-ever Golden Bachelorette. Vassos is not new to reality TV, as devoted members of Bachelor Nation may recognize her from The Golden Bachelor. Vassos was a fan favorite throughout the season, but abruptly left early due to a family emergency. 

The 61-year-old Rockland, Maryland native is a mother of four and a grandmother of two. She tragically lost her husband of 32 years, propelling her into a new chapter of seeking companionship. With a deep longing for meaningful connections and shared moments, Vassos is ready to explore the possibilities of love again. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Golden Bachelorette (@thegoldenbacheloretteabc)

"Vassos is a remarkable woman whose life has been defined by her resilience, zest for adventure, and strong family values. It was those family values that led her heartbreaking decision to leave The Golden Bachelor, self-eliminating after a medical concern with her daughter arose," read a press release. "Now, as she steps into the golden spotlight and begins her journey to seek love once more, Vassos envisions a future filled with shared moments by the beach and cherished time with family." 

Following the announcement, Vassos jumped on Instagram to share her excitement with Bachelor Nation. The sneak peek featured Vassos in a glitzy gown picking up the signature golden rose. 

"The secret is out!" wrote Vassos alongside the promotional video. "I'm honored to be #TheGoldenBachelorette." 

Viewers rushed to the comments to share their theories and excitement, while others revealed they were shocked that ABC picked Vassos over Leslie Fhima, the runner-up from the previous season. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ABC (@abc)

"Amazing choice!!!" wrote a follower. "SO PUMPED!!! So ready to watch this classy and beautiful queen on my screen!!" said another. "I'm so glad they picked her, she seems so down to earth and a dedicated mother who deserves a good man in her life again." 

Members of Bachelor Nation have been waiting for the release date of Bachelor In Paradise, a spinoff that usually airs during the summer. Many believe ABC is now putting all their energy and money into the Golden Bachelorette. However, Vassos recently gave fans a glimmer of hope. 

"Oh, my gosh. I want to be on it! Hopefully, I'll have a husband and not (be) eligible. I know the women that I was on the season with would be so much fun on Bachelor In Paradise, I think if it does happen that Susan (Noles) should be the bartender," she told CNN. "She should step in. She's Wells (Adams), right? That'd be great. I think she's going to want to be on it as a contestant. I don't think that's what's going to work. Maybe I'll be the Wells! I've got to take bartending lessons." 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joan Vassos (@joan_vassos)

Fans are buzzing with speculation that ABC might be gearing up for a major revamp of Bachelor in Paradise, potentially opening its doors to all age groups. This rumored shift has sparked excitement, hinting at a fresh approach that could attract a broader demographic. With viewership numbers benefiting from a diverse audience, this speculated move could be just the shake-up the franchise needs to stay relevant and maintain its appeal in an ever-evolving landscape of reality television.

Would you watch this new version of BIP, and will you be tuning in to see Vassos find love? Let us know your Fan Of View below. 

Photo Credit: @joan_vassos on Instagram.