The Favoritism Question: Understanding the Special Treatment Given to Gerry Turner on 'The Bachelors' (Exclusive)
Wells Adams and Joe Amabile discuss why Gerry Turner received more understanding when expressing love to three contestants, despite criticism faced by previous Bachelors Exclusive insights on the matter
Joe Amabile, Wells Adams, Gerry Turner Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures;ABC/Craig Sjodin;ABC/Brian Bowen Smith
Gerry Turner followed the lead of previous Bachelors by confessing his love to multiple contestants, but the Golden Bachelor managed to avoid some of the criticism.
"He's a little older, so we cut him some slack," Joe Amabile said in an exclusive interview with Wells Adams to promote their partnership with Diageo's newly launched ready-to-serve Cocktail Collection. "Our Bachelors have some experience before their season starts, but Gerry - he never watched the show, never participated in The Bachelorette... He's in his 70s, so whatever, you've got to take your shots."
Wells, 39, went on to draw a comparison between Gerry and season 20 Bachelor Ben Higgins, who also expressed love to multiple contestants. "I always say it was Ben Higgins and he did that too," Wells said, pointing out that both men came across as authentic and believable. "I believe all the things that he's saying. He came at it very authentically." Wells suggested that Gerry's authenticity made him lovable, and expressed understanding for his strong feelings for multiple women.
Gerry, 72, proposed to Theresa, 70. "If I thought he was just trying to take advantage of people, then I would be disgusted. But I truly believe that Gerry was sincere, so I'm giving him some leeway," Wells added. "Should he have done it? Maybe not, but that's where we are now."
Joe nodded in agreement, "It's difficult to imagine Gerry as a player. I think that's what sets him apart," he remarked.
The Golden Bachelor drew in ABC's highest ratings in years for the franchise, sparking excitement among fans for a potential season 2 of The Golden Bachelorette.
Joe expressed confidence in the ease of replicating Gerry's success with The Golden Bachelor.
Wells emphasized that the key to a successful show is not drama, but rather high stakes, and suggested that the compelling stories of individuals who have lived through tragedy and hardships are what truly captivates audiences. He acknowledged that finding another Gerry may be difficult, but expressed hope for other equally compelling storylines from individuals who have lived through a lot of life.
The Bachelor in Paradise bartender expressed his support for Joan Vassos, the first senior female to hand out roses, who had to leave early for a family emergency. "I was thinking, 'She should be the Golden Bachelorette, I wanted to know about her daughter and grandchild. What happened with the labor?' I actually looked into it," Wells said. "I think it'll be very easily duplicated but no one's ever going to be Gerry."
Joe hopes that Leslie, the runner-up on the show, will have her chance to be the center of attention. On his “Bachelor Happy Hour” podcast, Leslie shared that Gerry had allegedly made promises to her during their overnight date, leading Joe to believe she deserves a shot at being the next Bachelorette. He praised Leslie for being fully committed, but ultimately disappointed that Gerry didn't follow through with his promises. Joe believes that Leslie's endearing personality and genuine nature would make her an excellent lead for the show. He also expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing older men cast on the show, anticipating the comedic effect it would bring.
Deal of the Day
This May Be the Best Sweater Deal You'll See Today
View Deal
While Bachelor Nation eagerly awaits the network’s next move in the Golden franchise, Wells and Joe are busy preparing for the holiday season by sharing The Cocktail Collection (which includes the Ketel One Espresso Martini, the Ketel One Cosmopolitan, and the Tanqueray Negroni) with their family and friends.
The Cocktail Collection
"The Cocktail Collection offers elevated beverage options for holiday gatherings that come in larger, four- or eight-serving formats. Available nationwide on Drizly, this has truly improved my life. Say goodbye to slaving at the bar making drinks for everyone and their sister and actually enjoy your own party." Wells stated.
