On The Golden Bachelorette, Joan Vassos had a difficult decision to make when it came to handing out her first impression rose. So many charming men wanted her attention. In the end, Joan chose Keith Gordon. Now, she’s revealing why.
In an interview with Bachelor Nation, Joan said her choice to give Keith the first impression rose wasn’t about flashy entrances. It was about how he made her feel. Keith, 62, from San Jose, California, drove up in an old station wagon. It had luggage tied to the top, which reminded Joan of her childhood. While the entrance caught her attention, it was their immediate connection that sealed the deal.
Sitting on the hood of his car, Joan and Keith had an easy, comfortable conversation. She recalled, “He was like, ‘Let’s just get out of here. Let’s grab a wine and some cheese and go sit on a blanket on the beach.’ And I was just like, ‘Ah, that’s exactly what I’d like to do. That would feel so good right now.’”
She explained that it wasn’t just his words that won her over, but the way he made her feel. “I gave him the rose because he made me feel safe and comfortable,” Joan said, describing Keith as a “big teddy bear” who immediately put her at ease.
A Fan Favorite Already?
While Joan Vassos clearly saw something special in Keith, it seems viewers agree. Keith has quickly become a fan favorite on The Golden Bachelorette. Described as a “girl dad,” Keith has shown he’s ready to settle down and share his life with someone special. His genuine connection with Joan during that first night was evident to everyone watching.
Fans were thrilled to see Joan and Keith share a kiss after she presented him with the first impression rose. Many are excited to see how their relationship unfolds as the season progresses.
Joan Vassos: “I’m in the Right Place” After Her Golden Bachelorette Journey
Joan Vassos, the first-ever Golden Bachelorette, has had quite the journey to get to where she is today. After competing for Gerry Turner’s heart on The Golden Bachelor, Joan left the show early to support her daughter after childbirth. But now, Joan is back—this time as the leading lady, and she’s ready to find lasting love.
In an interview with Decider, Joan talked about her role in The Golden Bachelorette. She highlighted the strong bonds the men formed. “They were so vulnerable and so incredibly supportive of each other, like they had known each other for their whole lives,” she said, surprised by their quick connection.
Joan’s season promises plenty of heartfelt moments, but she teases an “original” and fulfilling ending for herself. “I can say I have an original ending and it ended exactly like it should. I’m in the right place.”
