Nick Viall Praises Joan Vassos as the New Bachelorette Lead for ‘The Golden Bachelor’

Nick Viall Hopes Golden Bachelorette Joan Vassos Will Be a ‘More Authentic Lead' Than Gerry Turner

Nick Viall, Joan Vassos, and Gerry Turner. Amy Sussman/Getty Images; ABC/Ricky Middlesworth; Disney/John & Joseph Photography

Former Bachelor Nick Viall is excited for Joan Vasso's upcoming season of The Golden Bachelorette. During his podcast episode on Thursday, May 16, Nick, 43, expressed his support for Joan's role. He congratulated Joan and hoped that she would be a more authentic lead compared to Gerry Turner.

Nick's wife, Natalie Joy, mentioned that it wouldn't be difficult to clarify things after some fans raised concerns about Gerry's relationship history and career being inaccurately portrayed. Gerry denied the accusations.

In the first season of The Golden Bachelor, 72-year-old Gerry proposed to Theresa Nist and they got married in January. Unfortunately, their marriage only lasted three months before they decided to go their separate ways.

Nick jokingly mentioned that Joan would have easily agreed to sign a prenup. He expressed his happiness for her and wished the show luck in finding high-quality men for her. Nick believed that this would be the biggest challenge for the show but remained optimistic.

Joan had appeared on Gerry's season but had to leave early to support her daughter who was dealing with postpartum depression after giving birth. With four children from her late husband of 32 years, Joan is now eager to become the first Golden Bachelorette. However, she is taking her time and not rushing into marriage again.

She expressed her openness to engagement in an interview with CNN on May 14. Believing in the process that has worked for many couples on The Bachelor, she stated, "If it ends up in engagement, that’s great."

She also mentioned that she would not rush into marriage quickly, citing the importance of taking time to truly get to know someone. Reflecting on past experiences, she emphasized the value of spending time together in the real world.

If Joan meets The One on her season, she is open to dating him off-camera before accepting a proposal. However, she won't prioritize the winner over her children.

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Joan told CNN that her family is very important to her and she would never leave them. She believes that family should also be a priority for the person she ends up with in a relationship.

The Golden Bachelorette will debut on ABC in the fall.

Editor's P/S:

Nick Viall's enthusiastic support for Joan Vassos as the lead of "The Golden Bachelorette" highlights the anticipation surrounding the show. Viall's criticism of Gerry Turner's portrayal in the previous season underscores the importance of authenticity in reality dating shows.