“The Golden Bachelorette Joan Vassos Opens Up About Dealing with Unwanted Attention on Social Media”

Navigating the Dark Side of Fame: Joan Vassos’ Journey on “The Golden Bachelor”

Introduction:
Joan Vassos, the 61-year-old star of “The Golden Bachelor” spinoff, has been experiencing the downsides of fame. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Vassos revealed that she has been bombarded with direct messages (DMs) on social media, some of which have been disturbing and inappropriate. As she embarks on her journey to find love on “The Golden Bachelorette,” Vassos opens up about the challenges she has faced and the importance of prioritizing family.

The Dark Side of DMs:
Vassos admitted that she found it difficult to navigate the process of receiving DMs from strangers. Unlike dating app profiles that offer a sense of vetting, DMs are unfiltered messages from total strangers. Vassos shared that she tried to respond politely, but some of the conversations were strange and uncomfortable. She even received explicit photos and requests from individuals with foot fetishes. Clearly, the experience has been overwhelming for Vassos, who found it necessary to block these individuals to protect herself and her family.

The Impact on Family:
Vassos, a mother of four and grandmother of two, revealed that her children were horrified by the nature of the DMs she received. They took immediate action, blocking the inappropriate users from their mother’s phone. The shocking offer to purchase the shoes Vassos wore on “The Golden Bachelor” exemplifies the extent to which some individuals become fixated on public figures. Despite the challenges, Vassos remains grateful for her family’s support and their willingness to prioritize her well-being.

A Widow’s Journey:
Vassos’s participation in “The Golden Bachelorette” comes after the devastating loss of her husband, John, in 2021 due to pancreatic cancer. As a widow, Vassos is seeking a new chapter in her life and hopes to find love again. Shows like “The Golden Bachelor” and its spinoffs, including “The Golden Bachelorette,” provide an opportunity for older individuals to find companionship and happiness. Vassos’s journey is a testament to the resilience and courage of those who have experienced loss and are ready to embrace new beginnings.

From One Golden to Another:
Gerry Turner, the star of the previous season of “The Golden Bachelor,” reached out to Vassos after her announcement as “The Golden Bachelorette.” Turner expressed his support and confidence in her ability to represent their generation. His message reassured Vassos and encouraged her to relax, breathe, and enjoy the experience. The camaraderie between the stars of the franchise highlights the unique bond that forms among participants who understand the challenges and joys of searching for love on television.

Conclusion:
Joan Vassos’s journey on “The Golden Bachelor” franchise has not been without its difficulties. Navigating the dark side of fame, she has encountered inappropriate DMs and had to prioritize her family’s well-being. However, Vassos remains determined to find love and create a new chapter in her life. As she embarks on “The Golden Bachelorette,” Vassos’s resilience and strength serve as an inspiration to others who have experienced loss. With the support of her family and the encouragement of her fellow “Golden” stars, Vassos is ready to embrace the possibilities that lie ahead. Tune in to the premiere of “The Golden Bachelorette” on September 18 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC to witness her journey firsthand.