Fans of ABC’s hit reality dating show have been asking the same question since the franchise debuted: who does the Golden Bachelor pick? The show, designed to highlight love stories later in life, quickly became a cultural phenomenon in the United States. With two seasons now on the table, viewers are eager to know the results of past seasons and what lies ahead in the new one.
Table of Contents
The Big Answer From Season 1
The first Golden Bachelor, Gerry Turner, became a household name when the show premiered in 2023. At 72 years old, he stepped into the role with hopes of finding true love after loss. Over the course of the season, he built strong connections with several women, but ultimately, the big question—who does the Golden Bachelor pick—was answered on the season finale.
The woman Gerry chose was Theresa Nist, a 70-year-old financial professional. Their relationship captured the hearts of millions, and during the live finale, Gerry got down on one knee and proposed. Theresa accepted, and the couple went on to marry in a televised wedding event.
This marked the first time in franchise history that a spinoff led to such a widely celebrated union among senior participants. For fans who tuned in weekly, Gerry’s decision to pick Theresa solidified the show’s reputation as more than just a reality spectacle—it was proof that love stories could thrive at any stage of life.
What Happened After the Wedding
While the fairy-tale ending was celebrated across the country, the reality after the cameras stopped rolling was more complicated. Gerry and Theresa’s marriage lasted only a few months before they announced a separation.
Their split highlighted the unique challenges of blending later-in-life relationships, particularly with families, homes, and established lives already in place. Still, Theresa remains the definitive answer to the question of who does the Golden Bachelor pick in Season 1.
The Start of Season 2
Following the success of the first season, ABC renewed The Golden Bachelor and introduced a brand-new lead in 2025: Mel Owens. At 66 years old, Mel brought a very different energy to the role. He is a retired NFL player turned attorney, and his appearance instantly drew national attention.
Mel’s season premiered in September 2025, and it introduced viewers to 23 women ranging from their late fifties to late seventies. Contestants came from diverse backgrounds—retired teachers, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, and even relatives of well-known public figures. From the very first episode, the show set the stage for a season filled with drama, laughter, and tender moments.
Who Might Mel Choose?
Right now, the question of who does the Golden Bachelor pick for season remains unanswered. The season is still airing, and ABC has carefully kept spoilers under wraps. What we do know is that Mel has expressed a desire to find a partner who shares his passion for staying active, adventurous, and engaged in life.
So far, a few contestants have emerged as frontrunners based on early interactions:
- One contestant stood out for her humor and charm, quickly forming an early connection with Mel.
- Another impressed him with a shared love for fitness and travel, sparking conversations about what life together might look like after the show.
- A third contestant connected with Mel over family values, resonating deeply with audiences who appreciate authenticity.
Even though the finale is weeks away, fans are already debating in living rooms and online forums about who could become Mel’s final pick.
Lessons From Season 1
Looking back at Gerry Turner’s journey provides some hints about how Season 2 might unfold. In Season 1, Gerry developed connections with multiple women, but it was the quiet and consistent bond with Theresa that ultimately won out.
This pattern shows that while flashy dates and bold personalities make for entertaining television, lasting connections often come from shared values and emotional understanding. If Mel follows the same path, his choice may come down to the woman who makes him feel at ease rather than the one who commands the most screen time.
Why the Golden Bachelor Resonates With Audiences
The appeal of The Golden Bachelor goes beyond simply finding out who does the Golden Bachelor pick. For many viewers in the United States, the show represents hope and inspiration. It challenges stereotypes about aging, proving that romance, passion, and companionship are not confined to youth.
The program has also sparked conversations about family, remarriage, and the role of second chances later in life. Couples across the country have shared how the show encouraged them to embrace dating again, while adult children often tune in with their parents, creating a multigenerational viewing experience.
What’s Next for Season 2
As the weeks unfold, fans will see Mel Owens narrow down his group of contestants. Each episode brings heartfelt conversations, emotional eliminations, and unforgettable dates. While no one knows just yet who does the Golden Bachelor pick this time around, the anticipation is part of what keeps audiences hooked.
The finale is expected to deliver a dramatic decision. Will Mel propose like Gerry did in Season 1, or will he choose a different path? Viewers will have to wait for the closing moments of the season to know for sure.
Season 1 vs. Season 2 at a Glance
To better understand the journey so far, here’s a quick comparison:
- Season 1 Lead: Gerry Turner, 72 years old
- Season 1 Winner: Theresa Nist, 70 years old
- Season 1 Outcome: Engagement and wedding, later separation
- Season 2 Lead: Mel Owens, 66 years old
- Season 2 Contestants: 23 women, aged 58 to 77
- Season 2 Outcome: Still in progress
This side-by-side perspective shows how much the show has evolved while staying true to its core theme: proving that love stories later in life can be just as exciting and meaningful.
Final Thoughts
So, who does the Golden Bachelor pick? For now, the official answer comes from Season 1: Gerry Turner chose Theresa Nist. As for Season 2, the journey is ongoing, and fans across the United States are tuning in every week to find out whether Mel Owens will find his perfect match.
The beauty of the show lies not only in the final pick but also in the shared moments along the way. Whether you’re rooting for a favorite contestant or simply enjoying the ride, the Golden Bachelor continues to prove that love is timeless.
Who do you think Mel Owens will choose this season? Share your thoughts and predictions below!
