Unveiling Theresa Nist: Delving into Her Background, Family, and Beyond
Theresa Nist, a finalist on 'The Golden Bachelor' season 1, is an intriguing contestant known for making a splash with her dramatic presence Discover her profession, partnership preferences, previous marriage status, and whether she has children and grandchildren in her life
ABC/Ricky Middlesworth
Theresa Nist has been a frontrunner on The Golden Bachelor since the first week — and she made it all the way to hometowns.
Theresa, a resident of New Jersey, will be introducing Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner to her two children and their respective offspring before the season 1 finale.
During a sneak peek for the hometowns-themed episode airing in October 2023, Theresa's grandson Henry expressed, "I believe you should become our new Paw Paw."
Theresa was married to William Nist for 42 years until his passing in 2014. Together, they had a son named Tommy and a daughter named Jen.
Throughout Theresa's Bachelor Nation journey, her family has been incredibly supportive. In fact, Jen offered her mother some valuable advice prior to the premiere of the esteemed Golden Bachelor.
"Embrace your authentic self. It's incredible that countless people will have the opportunity to truly 'know' who you are! You possess unique qualities and a wealth of goodness to share. Remain true to yourself and don't pretend to be anyone else," Jen enthusiastically expressed via her Instagram account in September 2023. "Have a great time and don't forget to laugh. I can't wait to hear your genuine laughter on the show! ... You are amazing and capable. Trust yourself. And if it feels right, go ahead and kiss him! Imagine the joy of being in a genuinely healthy relationship with a man!"
Catch Theresa on The Golden Bachelor, airing on ABC every Thursday at 8 p.m. ET. Continue scrolling for more information about Theresa:
What Does Theresa Nist Do for a Living?
Theresa works in finance and, according to her ABC bio, taught herself about the stock market.
What Is Theresa Nist Looking for in a Partner?
“She hopes to meet a partner who will be her best friend in this next chapter of life and will appreciate all the little moments with her,” her official ABC bio reads.
Disney/John Fleenor
How Did Theresa Nist Make a Splash on The Golden Bachelor?
On her 70th birthday, Theresa made quite the entrance at the first night of filming for The Golden Bachelor. Instead of wearing a traditional outfit, she chose to show up in her "birthday suit." As she introduced herself to Gerry, she confidently wore a silk robe, revealing a bit more than expected. However, it was later revealed that underneath the robe, she was actually wearing a nude-colored minidress.
Theresa's boldness did not go unnoticed, and she was rewarded with a rose at the rose ceremony. Being the first contestant to receive a rose, she was also given the opportunity for a one-on-one date with Gerry. They decided to keep things casual by sharing milkshakes at a local diner. To end the evening on a memorable note, they were surprised by a lively flash mob.
Why Was Theresa Nist Involved in The Golden Bachelor Drama?
Gerry’s relationship with Theresa ignited a quick rivalry with Kathy Swarts, a fellow contestant who was unwilling to listen to details about their intimacy. Despite Kathy's disapproval, Theresa consistently expressed her confusion over Kathy's anger towards her.
"I never could have imagined being caught up in such drama, never in a million years. It goes completely against my character," she posted on Instagram in October 2023. "I simply believed that I could be open and honest with a newfound friend about my emotions. As you witnessed, I acknowledged that everyone had a connection with Gerry, and I welcomed it. We were all on a journey to discover who was the best match for Gerry."
Theresa clarified, "My intentions were never to belittle Kathy or anyone else. As Edith Aguirre stated, 'The tension arises from the fact that we're all dating the same man.' Absolutely!"
Disney/John Fleenor
Has Theresa Nist Been Married Before?
Theresa and William, also known as Billy, were a couple in high school who were deeply in love. They had been married for 42 years when tragedy struck and Billy passed away due to kidney complications.
During a date with Gerry, who had also experienced the loss of a spouse, Theresa shared the heartbreaking moment when Billy's health suddenly deteriorated while she was at work. She rushed home and witnessed his final breath, a moment they never anticipated. Both Theresa and Billy believed they would spend the rest of their lives together with their respective partners.
Courtesy of Theresa Nist/Instagram
Does Theresa Nist Have Kids and Grandkids?
Theresa and Billy took great pride in being parents to their children, Tommy and Jen. As time went on, both Tommy and Jen got married and started their own families. Now, they have each blessed Theresa with three wonderful grandsons. Theresa cherishes every moment she gets to spend with her beloved grandchildren.
