Last night’s season finale of The Golden Bachelor on ABC ended with 72-year-old Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner giving his final rose to 70-year-old Theresa Nist over fan-favorite 57-year-old Leslie Fhima in an emotional conclusion to the groundbreaking senior dating show.
Gerry Proposes to Theresa After Tearful Breakup With Leslie
In the dramatic final episode, Gerry struggled with his decision between Theresa and Leslie right up until the final rose ceremony. He initially seemed ready to propose to Leslie and even met with Neil Lane to pick out a $40,000 engagement ring for her. However, when Leslie arrived, Gerry broke down in tears as he told her "I think the world of you. I think so much of you. But I think I have to go a different direction." A heartbroken Leslie left in tears.
Gerry then proposed to Theresa with a 1.5 carat Neil Lane diamond ring. According to Theresa, Gerry got "down on one knee, which was hard for him, and he took my hand and he made the most beautiful proposal and pledged his love and told me how much I meant to him." Theresa ecstatically accepted.
| Theresa Nist | Leslie Fhima | |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 70 | 57 |
| Hometown | North Port, Florida | Wayzata, Minnesota |
| Occupation | Retired preschool teacher | Retired lieutenant colonel |
| Fun Fact | Has a tattoo of Gerry’s face | Plays hockey and figure skates |
Mixed Reactions From Fans and Bachelor Nation
Reactions were mixed from fans, many of whom were rooting for Gerry to end up with Leslie. However, others felt his connection with Theresa was genuine.
Former Bachelor Jesse Palmer said "My heart breaks for Leslie, but I’m really happy for Gerry and Theresa finding this fairytale ending." Reality Steve tweeted that the breakup was "brutal" but the engagement was a "storybook ending." Kristen Baldwin called it "such a poignant, emotional end."
On the other hand, Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll tweeted "Anyone else feel totally blindsided? No one saw this Theresa thing coming…" Clearly Gerry’s decision surprised many viewers.
Gerry and Theresa Plan January Wedding and Move to Charleston
In interviews after the show, Gerry and Theresa revealed they plan to marry in January 2023 in a televised wedding on ABC. The quick timeline will beat out other Bachelor Nation couples for the quickest turnaround from engagement to marriage.
They also plan to settle down together in Charleston, SC. According to Theresa, she and Gerry discovered a shared "passion for historical places" after visiting there earlier this year.
People familiar with the area expect Gerry’s fame from the show to make the couple popular in Charleston society. The Post & Courier reported "Charleston loves its celebrities" and with Gerry’s national popularity, he and Theresa "will be the toast of the town."
What’s Next for Gerry and Theresa?
While some have questioned the rapid timeline of Gerry and Theresa’s engagement, the two seem genuinely committed to each other and thrilled to start their new life together in Charleston.
In January, fans will get a glimpse into their wedding preparations and ceremony when The Golden Wedding premieres January 8 on ABC. The primetime special promises to capture "the romance, emotion and celebration" of their nuptials.
After that, it remains to be seen what the future may hold for Gerry, Theresa and their blended family of children and grandchildren. No matter what comes next though, there’s no doubt this Golden Bachelor and his final rose have captured America’s hearts.
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