'Golden Bachelor' Stars Respond to Joan Vassos' Lead Role: Theresa Nist and Others Share Their Thoughts

'Golden Bachelor' Alums React to Joan Vassos Being Cast as Lead: Theresa Nist and More

Disney/Ramona Rosales

Joan Vassos, 61, has become a beloved figure in Bachelor Nation as the Golden Bachelorette.

She was recently announced as the star of the new spinoff series, The Golden Bachelor. Fans will recall Joan leaving Gerry Turner's season early to support her daughter, who had just become a mother.

Joan shared her excitement on Instagram Story after the announcement of her casting as #TheGoldenBachelorette. Her former Golden Bachelor co-stars, including Gerry and runner-up Leslie Fhima, joined in on the celebration. Gerry even offered some words of wisdom for the new lead.

Keep scrolling to see all the well wishes from Joan's fellow Golden Bachelor alums as she prepares for her upcoming journey.

Gerry Turner

'Golden Bachelor' Alums React to Joan Vassos Being Cast as Lead: Theresa Nist and More

"Congratulations on being named the first ever Golden Bachelorette, Joan!" Gerry sent his message through Instagram. "You will be amazing as the new face of the generation. Just take a moment to relax, breathe, and savor this experience."

Theresa Nist

Theresa shared a sweet photo of herself with Joan via Instagram Stories, alongside the caption: “My dear Joan, I am so excited for you!!”

Leslie Fhima 

'Golden Bachelor' Alums React to Joan Vassos Being Cast as Lead: Theresa Nist and More

Disney/James N Clark

Leslie took her excitement over the announcement of Joan’s new Bachelorette status to Instagram Stories, writing, “Happy for my friend!!! First Golden Bachelor!”

Nancy Hulkower

'Golden Bachelor' Alums React to Joan Vassos Being Cast as Lead: Theresa Nist and More

ABC/Ricky Middlesworth

“Congratulations to my friend on becoming the first Golden Bachelorette! Wishing you luck,” Nancy wrote alongside Joan’s official promo.

Kathy Swarts

'Golden Bachelor' Alums React to Joan Vassos Being Cast as Lead: Theresa Nist and More

Kathy posted a sweet selfie on her Instagram grid with Joan, the future lead. She captioned it, "Congratulations Joan! You're amazing and I'm excited to see where this journey takes you, my friend!️️."

Excited for Joan, the First Golden Bachelorette!

Christina shared her joy and pride for her friend Joan on Instagram. She expressed her excitement for Joan becoming the first Golden Bachelorette and sent her love and support. Christina believes Joan will do an amazing job and wishes her all the best.

Editor's P/S:

The announcement of Joan Vassos as the first-ever Golden Bachelorette has sparked immense excitement and well wishes from her former Golden Bachelor co-stars. Gerry Turner, Theresa Nist, Leslie Fhima, Nancy Hulkower, Kathy Swarts, and Christina have all expressed their joy and support for Joan through social media posts. Gerry, who previously led the season in which Joan appeared, offered words of wisdom, encouraging her to embrace the experience and savor every moment. The outpouring of support highlights the close bonds formed during the show and the genuine admiration for Joan's journey.

As Joan embarks on her new role as the Golden Bachelorette, she carries the legacy of the Golden Bachelor franchise and the expectations of viewers who have witnessed her previous