Oct
Golden Bachelorette’s Charles L. Says He’d ‘Consider’ Being Golden Bachelor
Make it happen, ABC!
It’s been a week since Charles L. was sent home from The Golden Bachelorette, and Bachelor Nation is still reeling from his departure.
The 66-year-old retired financial analyst from Pennsylvania quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his gentle spirit, sense of humor, and positive outlook. Viewers cheered when Charles helped the blue team win a kickball game during a group date—despite having never played before. They were moved when he opened up about the sudden loss of his wife to an aneurysm six years ago. And many shed tears when Joan Vassos, the 61-year-old Golden Bachelorette, hugged him goodbye, telling him, “You changed my life.”
Though currently traveling in China, Charles took time to chat with Entertainment Weekly about his experience on the show, his thoughts on dating, his love for oatmeal, and the possibility of becoming the next Golden Bachelor.
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: On the Bachelor Happy Hour podcast, you mentioned that you got a call from The Golden Bachelorette casting department just a day or two after submitting your application. Why do you think producers were so eager to cast you?
CHARLES LING: I think it might be my personality. When I talked to them, it felt like I was speaking with old friends. It was very natural and easy, and they were really nice people.
Were you surprised they called so quickly?
Absolutely! I was surprised from the very beginning, and it was a big surprise when they accepted me. I’d never been on TV before.
Had you watched much reality TV before?
Not much. My daughter Sophia showed me a few episodes here and there, but that’s about it.
Your bio on ABC’s website says you came to America with only $20 in your pocket. Can you share more about that experience?
Yes. Back then, many people in China were very poor—much less so today, as you know. Some people even had to borrow money to get a nice suit. I was around 27 when I decided to come to America.
What made you decide to move to the U.S.?
I majored in English in college, and as I studied, I became more curious about the world outside of China. I thought, “I’m young, I need to explore and expand my knowledge.” It was a great decision for me and my family.
You hadn’t dated much since your wife passed away. How has your approach to dating changed after being on the show?
It has changed a lot. Before, I was feeling sad and uncertain about moving forward, and I worried about what my family or friends might think. But during the show, conversations with Joan and others helped me realize it’s okay to be sad, but it’s also okay to move forward and seek happiness.
Have any women reached out to you since being on the show?
[Laughs] That’s a little secret for now. I’ve been traveling, so I haven’t had much time to check messages, but who knows what will happen when I get back!Where are you now?
I’m in Suzhou, near Shanghai, China. It’s a beautiful place.
Have you had a chance to watch the show?
Yes, I’ve watched some of it, little by little.
Golden Bachelorette’s Charles L. Says He’d ‘Consider’ Being Golden Bachelor
What was your favorite moment to watch back?
The kickball game! I didn’t know anything about kickball before, and my teammates were a little nervous to have me on their team. But it turned out to be a surprise for all of us—I did really well!
People loved seeing you enjoy Quaker oatmeal during that date. Did they give you a lifetime supply?
[Laughs] I’m a big fan of oatmeal! I think my fitness has something to do with it, since I have it every morning. And I was the only one on that field who didn’t get hurt. I’m not sure if it’s the oatmeal or not, but maybe it is!What did your daughters think of your Chippendales date?
They haven’t talked to me about it yet, but I think it was a bit of a shock for them! I’m not a great dancer, but once I was there, I didn’t have much choice. I gave it my best shot and enjoyed myself.
Golden Bachelorette’s Charles L. Says He’d ‘Consider’ Being Golden Bachelor
You’re also a big Britney Spears fan. How did that come about?
That started years ago. Britney has such a cheerful spirit, and I’d love to attend one of her concerts someday. Maybe she’ll see the show and offer me a ticket—I’d be happy to pay for it, of course!
The internet has fallen in love with you. What do you think of all the love from Bachelor Nation?
It’s beyond anything I imagined. I’m very grateful to the fans. I think maybe what I said or did resonated with people, reminding them of their own experiences or loved ones. Or maybe people just want to see more kindness in the world.
Golden Bachelorette’s Charles L. Says He’d ‘Consider’ Being Golden Bachelor
Have you been approached by fans since the show aired?
Not yet, since I’ve been away. But I’ve received messages from my gym asking, “Where’s Charles?” I’ll have to prepare for when I get back to the supermarket and gym!
Fans really want you to be the next Golden Bachelor. What do you think of that idea?
Oh, wow! That’s a new idea for me. If the opportunity comes, I’ll definitely consider it.
The Golden Bachelorette airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. on ABC.
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