Alright, Bachelor Nation! Buckle up because we’re diving headfirst into The Golden Bachelorette and it’s already delivering all the feels. Joan Vassos is here to remind us that love doesn’t have an expiration date, and honestly, we’re living for it!

The drama, the roses, the unexpected tears – this premiere had it all. And let’s not even get started on the suitors. Charles, Mark, Keith? These men are bringing the heat. Fans on social media are already losing their minds, and we can’t blame them. Get your tissues, because it’s about to go down!

Meet the Golden Bachelorette: Joan Vassos

At 61, Joan Vassos is stepping into the spotlight as the first-ever Golden Bachelorette. She's no stranger to Bachelor Nation, having been a beloved contestant on Gerry Turner’s season of The Golden Bachelor. Her emotional decision to leave Turner's season to prioritize her family made her a fan favorite back then, and now, she’s back to find love on her own terms. 

So who exactly is Vassos? A woman of grace, strength, and vulnerability. Vassos hails from Rockland, Maryland. She has a background in computer science and currently works in alumni relations at a prestigious school in her home state. But perhaps the most touching part of Vassos' journey is her life story. She was married to her late husband, John, for 32 years, before losing him to pancreatic cancer in 2021. Together, they raised four children – Allison, Nicholas, Erica, and Luke – making Vassos not just a career woman but also a devoted mother. With a heart full of love to give, Vassos has opened up about what she’s looking for in a partner.

“I’m very picky about a man being a gentleman,” she told People earlier this year, adding that her dream man would be someone with a generous spirit and humility. Will she find him among the 60+ year-olds vying for her affection? Let’s look at the frontrunners who’ve already caught fans’ attention!

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Top Contestants: Early Standouts

Charles L. (66, Retired Financial Analyst, Philadelphia, PA)

Charles L. has quickly become one of the season’s top contenders, both in Vassos' eyes and on social media. His story is inspiring – born in rural China, Charles moved to the U.S. with only $20 in his pocket, carving out a successful career in finance and raising two children along the way. Now retired, Charles is looking for a second chance at love, and fans can’t stop talking about how down-to-earth he is.

According to his ABC bio, Charles values intelligence and kindness in a partner, and he’s ready to bring his warmth and sense of humor into his relationship. But what really won fans over? His quirky admission that one of his dreams is to see Britney Spears in concert! Who could resist such a fun-loving soul? The moment she gave Charles a rose was a fan-favorite scene, with many viewers swooning over how unexpectedly charming he is.

Fan Of View: “This is the cutest man I have ever seen, protect him at all costs! #TheGoldenBachelorette”

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Mark (57, Army Veteran, Leesville, LA)

Mark brings his military discipline and heartwarming family values to the table. The 57-year-old Army veteran has already made a name for himself in Bachelor Nation as the father of Kelsey Anderson, who won the final rose on Joey Graziadei’s season of The Bachelor. Mark’s role in his daughter’s love story made him a fan-favorite back then, and now he’s back in the spotlight, looking for his own romance.

Mark’s introduction in this premiere was particularly touching, as he reflected on the joy of seeing his daughter find love and how it’s inspired him to seek the same. With five children and a life dedicated to service, Mark is looking for someone to share his golden years with, and many fans believe that Joan could be that someone.

Fan Of View: “I am SO happy Mark is on this season! His family is adorable, and I hope he finds love like Kelsey did! #GoldenBachelorette”

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Keith (62, Creative Sales Director, San Jose, CA)

Keith is another contestant who’s already stolen the hearts of many viewers. As a proud father of three girls, Keith’s life has revolved around his family, and now that his daughters are grown, he’s ready to focus on his own happiness. He’s playful, quick-witted, and extremely charismatic, with a contagious positivity that fans have immediately latched onto.

In his introduction, Keith showed off his easy-going nature, and he endeared himself to viewers with his enthusiasm about aging. "Younger people shouldn't be scared of growing older. Getting older ROCKS!” he said, instantly becoming a fan favorite for his vibrant outlook on life.

Fan Of View: “Keith is so fun! I love his energy, and he’s got such a sweet vibe with Joan already. Can’t wait to see more of him!”

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Emotional First Episode

The first episode of The Golden Bachelorette wasn’t just about the men vying for Joan’s heart – it was about Joan’s incredible journey, too. Her vulnerability and honesty about losing her husband and stepping back into the dating world moved fans to tears. Social media was flooded with emotional reactions as viewers witnessed her touching introduction. 

Fan Of View: “I CANNOT deal with Joan’s intro right now! My heart is broken and healed at the same time. #GoldenBachelorette," wrote a fan on X. “Y’all, I cried about 17 times watching this. Joan deserves the world! #TheGoldenBachelorette," added another. 

As the night unfolded, fans were quick to share their opinions on the contestants. Charles, Mark, and Keith were all early standouts, and fans wasted no time picking favorites. Charles, in particular, has become an instant hit, with viewers gushing over how sweet and unassuming he is. Many believe he could go all the way to the end – especially after receiving a rose from Vassos in such a heartfelt moment. 

 “Joan's men being cuter than most of Jenn's men is crazy!” said a passionate member of Bachelor Nation. "This season is already the most wholesome thing I’ve ever watched. Joan, please marry Charles already! #TheGoldenBachelorette”

 What’s Next?

So, who is she leaning toward? Charles, with his humility and sweet sense of humor? Mark, the Army veteran with a heart of gold? Or Keith, the ever-optimistic “Girl Dad” who’s ready to rock his way into Vassos life? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – this season is going to be one for the ages. Grab your tissues and roses, Bachelor Nation! The emotional rollercoaster has just begun.

Who do you think Joan will choose in the end? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! 🌹

Photo Credit: @thegoldenbacheloretteabc on Instagram.