Close Calls: Golden Bachelor's Leslie Fhima and the Peril of an Early Exit

Disney/John Fleenor

The Golden Bachelor’s debut season has seen several contestants self-eliminate due to personal reasons — and Leslie Fhima was almost one of them.

Leslie, 64, shared in an interview with E! News on Thursday, October 26, that her son reached out to her when he was in need. Despite this, her son asked her to continue on the ABC dating series and urged her to pursue her connection with Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner. Leslie is a mother to three children named Elijah, Chloe, and Zack, and also has three grandchildren.

Her son's call occurred shortly after fellow contestant Joan Vassos, who Leslie referred to as one of her closest friends on the show, left to assist her daughter who had recently given birth. Had it not been for her son's insistence, Leslie would have followed the same path as 60-year-old Joan.

Leslie explained to the outlet that even though her children are grown, they still face their own challenges because age brings different experiences. As a mother, she prioritizes her children, and if her son had requested her presence, she would have left without hesitation.

However, leaving the series early would have possibly resulted in her missing out on her first intimate date with Turner, who is 72 years old. They had an enjoyable time riding ATVs in the California desert before sharing a passionate moment in a hot tub.

Leslie expressed that her relationship with Gerry reached a new level after her son allowed her to stay and have a memorable date with him. In contrast, Joan, who initially contemplated going home, decided to leave after a romantic dinner with Gerry during the group date in episode 3. She shared her departure on Instagram after the October 12 episode, revealing that she chose to prioritize motherhood and return to her family instead of staying at the mansion.

ABC/Ricky Middlesworth

Joan reiterated her unwavering commitment as a mother saying, "Being a mother means my children will always be my first priority. I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the immense love and support, not just for me, but also for my beloved daughter. At present, everyone is healthy and content! As for my own pursuit of love...only time will reveal what lies ahead. Until then, let's embrace the unknown with optimism."

Much like Joan, contestant Marina Perera's journey on Golden Bachelor came to an end early when she received a rose from Gerry on the first night. In a deleted scene shared on the show's social media platforms, host Jesse Palmer informed Gerry that Marina, 60, had to leave the Bachelor Mansion due to a family situation. "As a single mom, I had to prioritize and support my family's needs at this time," she explained to Gerry via FaceTime. "I apologize for having to leave, but my family comes first.

Disney/John Fleenor

Nancy Hulkower's decision to leave the series was not based on family issues, but on her relationship with Gerry. During the group's afternoon cocktail party in episode 4, she expressed to Gerry, "I feel like you're more passionate with other people. Maybe I'm not part of that group." Gerry responded, "I can't argue with that." Additionally, Nancy sustained a leg injury during the pickleball group date, which ultimately led to her departure from the show.

The Golden Bachelor airs Thursdays on ABC at 8 p.m. ET.