In an exciting announcement, ABC has revealed that Joan Vassos from Rockland, Maryland, will be the inaugural star of their new show, "The Golden Bachelorette." The 61-year-old Vassos, who had previously appeared on Gerry Turner's "The Golden Bachelor," had to leave the show early in order to care for her daughter, who had recently given birth.

Joan Vassos is a mother of four, a grandmother of two, and a school administrator. Tragically, she lost her husband, John, earlier this year to pancreatic cancer after being married for 32 years. In a heartfelt Instagram post in January, Joan described John as her rock and the fun-loving parent who always made their children's lives adventurous and memorable.

Following the confirmation of plans to cast a radiant woman seeking a second chance at love in her golden years, Joan Vassos was chosen as the perfect candidate. According to a press release, Joan envisions a future filled with moments shared by the beach and treasured time with her family.

Gerry Turner, who previously led "The Golden Bachelor," congratulated Joan Vassos on being selected as the first-ever Golden Bachelorette, sharing his well wishes and excitement for her new role. Turner's season of "The Golden Bachelor" premiered in September 2023 and ended with his marriage to contestant Theresa Nist in a televised ceremony. However, just three months later, the couple announced their divorce during a "Good Morning America" interview.

"The Golden Bachelorette" is set to air for an hour and a half on Wednesdays this fall, extending the episode duration from its predecessor, "The Golden Bachelor." The show will premiere at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day.

ABC's decision to introduce "The Golden Bachelorette" highlights their commitment to providing diverse and inclusive programming while giving deserving individuals the opportunity to find love later in life. With Joan Vassos at the helm, the show promises to captivate audiences with her unique charm and genuine quest for love.

As the countdown begins for the premiere of "The Golden Bachelorette," fans eagerly await the journey of Joan Vassos, hoping that she will find the love and companionship she deserves in this exciting new chapter of her life.