Joan Vassos, a contestant on ABC's reality series "The Golden Bachelor," revealed that she had made plans to return to the show shortly after her early exit due to a family matter. Vassos, who was initially a favorite among Gerry Turner's suitors, left the production to care for her daughter, who was struggling with postpartum depression.

Speaking during the taping of the "Women Tell All" episode, Vassos shared her intentions to come back to the show. She explained, "I was in the process of getting my daughter mental health care, and I was approached about returning to the show. I expressed my interest but needed to ensure my daughter's well-being."

Believing she had cleared the way for her return, Vassos was set to fly back to the "Bachelor" mansion to continue her dating journey with Turner. "I was planning to return four or five days after I left," Vassos shared. "However, my daughter's condition worsened, and we hadn't made enough progress in finding her a doctor. The timing just didn't work out."

Vassos expressed relief that her daughter eventually received the necessary mental health care and is now doing better. However, the road to recovery took longer than anticipated for the family. Reflecting on her potential comeback to the show, Vassos said, "It simply wasn't meant to be."

The episode in which Vassos departed was an emotional one, particularly as it followed a romantic one-on-one date with Turner. During a group date talent show, Vassos impressed Turner with her heartfelt poetry, which further solidified their connection.

In addition to missing out on the chance to continue dating Turner, Vassos also expressed regret over not being able to experience living in the "Bachelor" mansion alongside the vibrant group of senior women.

"The Golden Bachelor" continues to air on ABC every Thursday at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

TheWrap was the first to report on Joan Vassos' attempt to return to "The Golden Bachelor" following her early exit due to a family matter.