Unveiling the Enigmatic Past and Family of 'Golden Bachelor' Finalist Leslie Fhima

ABC/Ricky Middlesworth

Leslie Fhima has been making a splash on The Golden Bachelor since her first moment on screen.

The 64-year-old fitness instructor instantly captivated everyone with her unforgettable limo entrance during the show's season premiere in September. Fhima emerged from the vehicle donning a wig, robe, and a walker in hand. When Gerry Turner, the Golden Bachelor, offered his assistance, she confidently discarded her attire, let her hair down, and revealed a stylish black dress. "Do I look like I need help?" she cheekily asked.

Her introduction to the ABC series, along with her encounter with 72-year-old Turner, perfectly embodied her vibrant personality. Leslie has led a remarkable life, starting her own company, completing 10 marathons, pursuing a career as a professional figure skater, and even dating the iconic Prince.

Leslie, the mother of Chloe, Eli, and Zack, and also the proud "glama" to three grandchildren, is known for bringing a better, more relaxed, and playful environment wherever she goes. Her son Eli describes her entrance into a room as a transformation that instantly elevates the atmosphere. In an interview with the Star Tribune in September, Eli emphasized that her hospitality is not just a profession, but a way of life for her.

Leslie's other children also hold her in high regard. In an Instagram post from August, her son Zack expressed his admiration for her vibrant spirit at 64 years old and her boundless love. He shared a photo of Leslie and wrote, "Proud of this woman. You deserve the world and now it’s your time to go and get it. Love you momma #teamleslie #thegoldenbachelor."

Disney/John Fleenor

Having prior familiarity with the Bachelor Nation franchise, Leslie's affinity for it became evident when her family used to engage in collective viewings of The Bachelor. Thus, when ABC unveiled The Golden Bachelor, a show catering to individuals in their 60s and 70s, Leslie promptly submitted her application due to her earnest quest for love, as emphasized by Eli.

The Golden Bachelor airs on ABC Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET. Keep scrolling to learn more about Leslie:

What Does Leslie Do for a Living?

Leslie is a personal trainer at Lifetime Athletic. According to her LinkedIn profile, she is the founder of her own company, Soul612, and has developed PowerBark, a convenient meal option for active dogs.

Before entering the fitness industry, Leslie pursued a career as a professional figure skater, as stated in her ABC biography.

Disney/John Fleenor

What Is Leslie Looking for in a Partner?

Leslie, as stated in her ABC bio, is on the search for her "running buddy for life" and a "real man" who will bring joy to her life. She is prepared to take risks in order to pursue love.

Courtesy of Leslie Fhima/Instagram

Has Leslie Been Married Before?

Leslie’s former spouse is David Fhima, a restaurateur who currently serves as the executive chef for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Fhima’s Minneapolis. In 2007, he entered into a new marriage with his current spouse, Lori Fhima.

Does Leslie Have Children and Grandchildren?

Leslie has three adult children and is a “glama” to three grandkids.  “We swim together in the summer, we have dance parties,” she told the Star Tribune in 2020.

She is also mom to a fur baby: her mini Aussiedoodle, Billie.

Did Leslie Date Prince?

In her introduction video for Golden Bachelor, Leslie revealed that she had a past romantic relationship with the late musician when they were younger. She asserted that the song 'Sexy Dancer' was inspired by their time together.

Supporting his mother's statements, Eli, her son, confirmed the relationship in an interview with the Star Tribune in September. He mentioned that not only did she date Prince, but she also ended the relationship. He mentioned that her reason for parting ways with Prince was to embark on a tour of Europe with the Ice Follies.