Leslie Fhima’s Journey After Golden Bachelor Season 1: Where Is She Now?

Since her appearance on The Golden Bachelor in 2023, Leslie Fhima has been making remarkable strides in her post-reality TV life. At 64, this dedicated fitness instructor was one of the 22 women vying for the heart of retired restaurateur Gerry Turner. Her dynamic personality and charisma stood out, and during week 4, Gerry awarded her a rose, recognizing the strong connection they shared.

Leslie’s entry into the show was unforgettable. Unlike her fellow contestants, she made a bold entrance in black lacy lingerie and even performed a lap dance for Gerry. Throughout the season, she engaged with him meaningfully across various locations, creating a series of unforgettable memories. Although Leslie ultimately did not win—the final rose was given to Theresa Nist—she made it impressively close, lasting until just before the final ceremony.

Leslie Fhima’s Lingering Grievances Towards Gerry

Will Leslie Fhima Move On From Gerry?

Leslie The Golden Bachelor posing with hands on hips for promo

Despite her journey towards healing, Leslie continues to grapple with negative emotions surrounding her experience on the show. During her appearance on the Bachelor Happy Hour podcast, she candidly expressed her disappointment in Gerry. Commenting on her feelings, she stated, “At the end of the day, he didn’t really have the integrity that I thought he had.” Leslie’s respect for Gerry has diminished following his unexpected choice of Theresa, which she perceived as a betrayal, a sentiment she revealed was not new to her.

Leslie Fhima: An Influential Figure on Social Media

Why Leslie Fhima is Loved by Fans

Before her stint on The Bachelor franchise, Leslie had already established herself as a prominent figure. However, her popularity skyrocketed in recent months, thanks in part to her impressive background as a businesswoman in fitness and a former national aerobics champion. Recently, she shared a heartwarming photo reel on Instagram celebrating her family and friends, garnering over 3, 000 likes and numerous supportive comments, including one that recognized her as “such an inspiration.”

With nearly 75, 000 followers, Leslie continues to inspire and engage her fan base, who appreciate her authenticity and resilience.

Leslie Fhima’s Presence at Gerry & Theresa’s Wedding

Leslie Fhima Was Present at the Golden Bachelor Wedding

Leslie Fhima Gerry Turner The Golden Bachelor talking during the show in front of live audience — The Golden Bachelor/ABC

Leslie attended the wedding of Gerry and Theresa on January 4, 2024, despite her complicated feelings. Earlier, Theresa had expressed her desire to invite Leslie during an appearance on the Bachelor Happy Hour podcast. Although she speculated that Leslie might not attend, Leslie surprised everyone by showing up, perhaps challenging the notion that her friendships were solely for on-screen appearances.

Leslie’s Support for Theresa Amid Gerry & Theresa’s Split

Gerry Turner & Theresa Nist’s Divorce Announcement

Less than three months after their wedding, Gerry and Theresa announced their divorce on April 12, 2024, revealing the underlying tensions in their relationship. Despite the initially picturesque appearance of their marriage, it became evident that conflicts regarding relocation and lifestyle decisions began to strain their bond.

The couple faced challenges that arose from a lack of familiarity, making it unsurprising that reality clashed with their romance. Discussions about potentially moving to South Carolina to start fresh fell through, leaving both partners grappling with the reality of their situation.

In the midst of this unfolding drama, Leslie stands firmly in support of Theresa. Acknowledging Theresa’s poignant Instagram post post-divorce:

Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.

Leslie expressed her affection and solidarity in the comments, saying:

I love you my friend. I’m so happy to call you that. You’re beautiful inside and out.

While neither woman found lasting romance on the show, they have emerged with a valuable friendship, suggesting a more meaningful connection than their relationships with Gerry. Leslie’s support of Theresa exemplifies the resilience of platonic friendships in the reality TV landscape, highlighting the challenges of maintaining romantic relationships under such scrutiny.

What Lies Ahead for Leslie in 2025?

Leslie’s Journey of Healing and Discovery

As 2024 unfolded, Leslie’s life attracted considerable interest, particularly regarding her rumored connection to Jordan Heller from The Golden Bachelorette. Their quickly formed bond seemed promising, yet as of 2025, it appears either their relationship has quieted or they have gone their separate ways. Regardless, Leslie’s emphasis now lies on personal growth and mental health.

As January shines a light on mental health awareness, Leslie candidly shared her struggles, including a tragic family loss. In a heartfelt interview on the Live, Laugh Lies podcast with Susie Evans, she opened up about her father’s suicide and past experiences with infidelity in her marriages, alongside touching on her relationship with the iconic musician Prince. Leslie emphasized the importance of connection and support during difficult times, stating in an Instagram caption:

Let’s also remember to check in with our loved ones. A simple, heartfelt conversation can make a world of difference. Sometimes, just being there for someone can be lifesaving.

In 2025, Leslie shows a renewed commitment to vulnerability, which may position her as a compelling candidate for the next Golden Bachelorette. With an inspiring narrative to share, fans are eager to witness this next chapter of her life unfold.

The Golden Bachelor is available for streaming on Hulu.

Sources: Bachelor Happy Hour, Leslie Fhima/Instagram, People, Theresa Nist/Instagram, Live, Laugh Lies/YouTube, Leslie Fhima/Instagram

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