Get to know the remaining contestants better before hometowns.
Is it just us, or do these Golden Bachelorette rose ceremonies feel like blood baths? Last night, we went from seven contestants to a mere four. And THAT might have been the smallest elimination so far this season! Either production wants to move this along (meanwhile, we’ll watch as many episodes of this as they feed us) or Joan just really knows what she wants and is ready to get to her happy ending. If it’s the latter, we are in full support, even if that does mean fewer episodes and tougher departures.
Now that we’re heading into hometown dates — where each remaining contestant gets to take Joan home to meet their family and see what their life is like outside the spotlight — we’re really going to get to know Joan’s final four suitors. Which is great, because it feels like some of these guys haven’t had that much airtime. (Someone else must be hogging Joan…cough, Chock, cough.)
Before we head home with them, we spoke to Joan’s final four about the challenges of finding love as you get older and their biggest relationship mistakes.
Who are Joan’s final four men, and what do they have to say about dating?
In case you need a refresher or didn’t read our episode five recap, Joan’s last elimination left her with Chock, Pascal, Jordan, and Guy. One of them will be her happily ever after. But first, how do they approach relationships at this stage in life?
Chock
What have you learned about dating in your golden years?
Capability is my main interest. For a happy and healthy relationship, you must have mutual capability. Can we get along during the tough times? Do you like to travel? Are you tidy? Do you like dogs? Are you nice to other people and tough when you need to be (with kids, etc.)? Do you take care of yourself? Everything in moderation leads to a quality relationship as well as a longer life.
What don’t you want to repeat from past relationships?
Working too hard. It has its place and time. As we age, there are more important aspects in life. Don’t let the little things ruin your day! Remember, they are little things for a reason.
Pascal
What have you learned about dating in your golden years?
It’s not an easy process! We have the option to meet people online, but it hasn’t worked very well for me. The other option is meeting someone through friends or joining classes like a museum, art or photography class — or the gym. This might be really the only way. The golden years of dating are very difficult!
What don’t you want to repeat from past relationships?
Very interesting question! I’ve been too generous and too giving in the past — sometimes this is spoiling them or showering them with gifts. Before we get to that place, I’d like to build trust, communication, and chemistry with them.
Jordan
What have you learned about dating in your golden years?
I’ve learned a lot about myself and the new dynamics of dating. Returning to the dating pool, I’ve realized the importance of being patient, open-minded, and truly myself in every interaction. It’s taken a little time, but I’ve learned to set healthy boundaries and expectations while not pressing or pushing any relationship. Awareness of someone’s intentions is very important in choosing a person to date.
A true connection is built on shared values, mutual respect, and attraction, as well as honesty and vulnerability. There’s also an X factor, a “Je ne sais quoi,” some indefinable charm or quality that, to me, makes the difference.
Dating at any age has its challenges, but being optimistic, open to new experiences, not taking things too seriously, and rolling with the punches are the roadmap for me. Not everyone is going to be a great match or partner, so don’t take it too personally.
What don’t you want to repeat from past relationships?
The tendency to let things slide instead of addressing them head-on — avoidance becomes the default response. To me, avoidance is the killer of relationships; I just won’t do it anymore.
It’s also a must to have a partner who values communication and open, direct, and respectful dialogue. You can’t have one person who is open while the other is avoidant. You’re going to have disagreements in your relationships, so addressing whatever the issues are directly is a must.
Guy
What have you learned about dating in your golden years?
In our golden years, we’ve established our priorities. We have a good idea of our “filters,” so we start with those. I like to apply the five C’s: Communication, Compatibility, Commitment, Caring, and Compromise. If those qualities mesh with your prospective partner, then there just needs to be Chemistry. Most of us in our golden years can recognize that almost immediately. We don’t have as much time as we did when we were younger. I’m ready to live my best life now!
What don’t you want to repeat from past relationships?
This is difficult to answer; I haven’t been in a long-term committed relationship aside from my marriage, so I have limited history or experiences to draw from.
And if you’re already missing some of the guys who were eliminated last night, here’s where they stand on dating later in life:
Jonathan
What have you learned about dating in your golden years?
I’ve learned that it’s never too late to find the joys and excitement of companionship. Being authentic fosters open and honest communication and this can build a firm foundation for a lasting and loving relationship. I’ve also learned that humility in a golden relationship is important. Being humble enables you to listen and to accept your partner’s points of view and needs so that you can offer support and love. Finally, I’ve learned that I will only invest myself with people who invest in me!
What don’t you want to repeat from past relationships?
I don’t want to repeat being naive in a relationship. I’ve learned that there’s a difference between being naive and vulnerable. I’ve been hurt and misunderstood while being naive in a relationship; however, now in my golden years, through growth, I’ve gained wisdom through good and bad experiences in relationships. I’ve learned what’s important to me, my values and boundaries. I can only be vulnerable and authentic if I feel safe. I trust my wisdom to let me know that I’m safe. Once I know that, I can go all in and just be me. Take it or leave it!
Mark
What have you learned about dating in your golden years?
Dating has changed over the past 30 years. It’s hard to meet someone new if you’re not willing to use the internet or hang out at a bar. Friends are usually married, and being a constant third wheel can feel awkward at times. I think the most important thing is being available and open.
What don’t you want to repeat from past relationships?
In the past, I have felt bad for dating [after my wife’s death]; however, I’ve learned that it’s a part of the healing process. Now, I feel available and open to having love and giving love again.
