In the wake of The Golden Bachelor’s impressive reception, ABC has announced the debut of The Golden Bachelorette, set to premiere on September 18, 2024. The spotlight will be on 61-year-old Joan Vassos, who is on a quest to find her soulmate. Joan was also part of the previous season featuring Gerry Turner in the lead role as the bachelor.
During Episode 4 of The Golden Bachelorette, Joan made the tough decision to send home four contestants, opting instead to hand out roses to the remaining participants. Among those eliminated was 65-year-old Gary Levingston, a retired finance executive and godson of the late music icon Tina Turner. Joan and Gary shared some heartfelt moments, including a special FaceTime call with his son on his birthday.
In a candid interview with Entertainment Weekly on October 11, 2024, Gary reflected on his experiences in the competition and discussed his feelings regarding Joan’s choices. He confessed to feeling nervous, ultimately expressing disappointment over the absence of a rose.
“The anxiety was overwhelming — waiting, hoping she’d call my name. At the final rose ceremony, with only four roses available, I thought today might be my chance. But it wasn’t meant to be. That was a tough pill to swallow because I was invested in the journey,” Gary recounted.
Gary’s Journey to Joining The Golden Bachelorette
Gary characterized his time on The Golden Bachelorette as meaningful, forming bonds with his fellow contestants. He also shared an amusing detail about how he got cast: it happened during a church service, where a crew member encouraged him to apply by handing over an application form.
Initially hesitant about participating due to his desire for privacy, Gary eventually warmed to the idea and decided to fill out the application, having built a friendship with the crew member over a couple of months.
“It took a bit of persuasion, but after about two months, I finally gave in and signed up. And here I am!” Gary shared enthusiastically.
He commended the production team for their remarkable work in showcasing pivotal moments, including when Joan gifted Gary a framed photo of her from prom, and his heartfelt prayer for Joan.
One unforgettable moment from the season featured Gary unexpectedly ripping off his shirt during a playful Chippendale date. Gary admitted this was spontaneous, initiated following Jonathan’s surprising action of removing his own pants, leading the other bachelors to reconsider their strategies to catch Joan’s eye.
As he prepared for the moment, Gary was already in the process of unbuttoning his vest, a decision he later enjoyed rewatching when it aired on national television.
Gary Honors Tina Turner with His Journey
Gary previously shared that the legendary Tina Turner was not only a music icon but also his godmother. During his time with Entertainment Weekly, he reflected on how Tina might have reacted to his participation in The Golden Bachelorette. He fondly imagined that she would have laughed but ultimately supported his decision.
“I can picture her chuckling, thinking, ‘You’ve got to be kidding me! You’re really doing this?’ But I know she would have backed me wholeheartedly and said, ‘Enjoy the experience.’ I believe she’s smiling down at me from above, saying, ‘Well done!’”Gary disclosed.
In the fourth week of the season, Gary found himself among the four contestants sent home, alongside Charles, Dan, and Gil.
Don’t miss the next episode of The Golden Bachelorette on Wednesday, October 16, on ABC.
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