The Golden Bachelor star Gerry Turner was cast for the series to be a lovable lead, but after his post-show antics ruined his reputation, his casting proves that the show doesn’t care about contestants. Gerry, the lead of The Golden Bachelor season 1, was a part of the show that led to its immense popularity. Supposedly authentic and kind, Gerry radiated charm and charisma in a way that made it clear he was the right fit for the series. Even in moments when it seemed strange that he was overwhelmed, Gerry’s emotion during the season made Bachelor Nation feel safe.

During The Golden Bachelor season 1, Gerry was able to get along with the women of his season and develop sweet connections that led viewers to enjoy his time as the lead. It was only after he’d chosen Theresa Nist at the end of the season and the pair had gotten engaged that Gerry’s reputation began to suffer. After an ex-girlfriend had come forward to share Gerry wasn’t the sweetheart Bachelor Nation believed, things only got worse for the Golden lead. Gerry and Theresa’s quickie wedding was difficult for Bachelor Nation, and the subsequent divorce sealed their opinion of Gerry.

Gerry Lied About Being In A Relationship

He Wasn’t Always Single After Being Widowed

Although Gerry’s time on The Golden Bachelor proved that he knew how to be flirty & charming with women, he’d shared early on that he’d been single since his wife of 40 years had passed. As a widower, Gerry seemed easier to approach for the women of The Golden Bachelor, which created an easier path to them getting along and finding love. When it was exposed that Gerry had not only dated after his wife died, but had been in a long-term relationship where he’d ended things without warning and behaved poorly, Bachelor Nation realized they couldn’t trust Gerry at all.

Producers Didn’t Vet Gerry Enough Before Casting Him

They Didn’t Look Into His Past Closely

Although Gerry’s relationship may have come up in the casting process of The Golden Bachelor and producers chose to ignore it, Gerry’s behavior likely was something he’d kept to himself. The production team behind The Golden Bachelor may not have vet Gerry well enough to ensure they knew what he’d be like with the women of the series. Without vetting Gerry in a way that made sure they knew about his character, the producers weren’t able to ensure the safety and comfortability of the women in the cast. Gerry’s behavior has been difficult for both the cast and production alike.

It Seems Gerry May Have Used The Show For Fame

He Was Looking For Reality TV Credibility

As Gerry moved through his time on The Golden Bachelor, it was clear that he was hoping to make an impression on both the women of his season and Bachelor Nation. Though Gerry has been more of a disappointment than a success to the franchise, he seems to be hopeful continues to pursue reality TV. After appearing on the show, he played on an episode of Celebrity Family Feud with Theresa while they were still married, and has mentioned pursuing other reality TV shows in the future. Gerry may have been hoping The Golden Bachelor would bring fame, not love.