Gerry Turner, 'Golden Bachelor,' weds Theresa Nist on ABC's special. Controversy and heartfelt moments in the show's first season. (The Walt Disney Company)
Gerry Turner, dubbed "The Golden Bachelor," at 72, married Theresa Nist, 70, in a TV special titled "The Golden Wedding" on ABC. The couple exchanged vows, pledging support and joy for their remaining days together, emphasizing their commitment and enduring trust. The wedding was attended by Turner's daughters, Angie and Jenny, and Theresa's daughter, Jen. Notable personalities from the "Bachelor" franchise, including Joey Graziadei, Charity Lawson, Trista, Ryan Sutter, and previous "Golden Bachelor" contestants, graced the occasion.
The "Bachelor" spin-off, focusing on individuals in their golden years, proved successful with a significant viewership of 6.1 million for the finale, marking a high in "Bachelor" viewership over three years. Turner was previously married to Toni for 43 years, with whom he had daughters Angie and Jenny, and granddaughters Charlee and Payton. After Toni's passing in 2017, his daughters encouraged him to find love again through the show.
Turner, a retired restaurateur, is known for his active lifestyle, engaging in various activities and cherishing time with friends and family. Seeking a partner with energy and a love for sports, Turner participated in "The Golden Bachelor" to find companionship. Despite positive experiences, allegations surfaced during the show about a supposed "secret girlfriend," which contradicted the program's portrayal of Turner as a widower searching for love.
The allegations involved a woman named Carolyn, who claimed to have dated Turner, mentioning issues related to her weight gain and their relationship ending before Turner's high school reunion in October 2019. Turner, when asked about the story, focused on his current relationship with Theresa, dismissing the relevance of the allegations.
In the show's climax, Turner chose Theresa over Leslie Fhima, expressing his deep feelings for Theresa, describing her as someone he couldn't live without. Fhima, feeling deceived, confronted Turner about his previous words of affection.
Despite some post-show regrets, Turner expressed contentment with his choices, seeking a partner with a sense of humor and kindness. ABC hasn't confirmed if there will be a second season of "The Golden Bachelor" as of now.
