The highly anticipated hometown dates have arrived on ABC’s The Golden Bachelor. With only three women left vying for Gerry Turner’s heart, emotions are high as he travels across the country to meet the families of Faith, Leslie, and Teresa. As the tension builds, Gerry must navigate the realities of potential long-distance relationships and the impact it could have on everyone involved.
Gerry’s first stop is in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, to visit Teresa. As he meets her daughter, grandkids, and sisters, it’s evident that Teresa’s family is excited about the budding relationship. However, Teresa’s daughter raises valid concerns about the practicality of a long-distance relationship. The separation would mean uprooting their lives and leaving behind the familiarity they cherish. Gerry may not have all the answers yet, but he reassures Teresa’s daughter that he is committed to finding a solution that works for both families.
Next, Gerry heads to Benton City, Washington, to spend time with Faith. Surrounded by her rural land and horses, Faith wonders if Gerry is ready to embrace a different lifestyle. She values her family and her current way of life, making it clear that she’s not prepared to give it all up. Gerry again finds himself without a definitive answer but emphasizes his dedication to figuring it out together. The couple’s chemistry is undeniable as they ride horses and create lasting memories. When Gerry meets Faith’s family, her sister becomes emotional, expressing how safe Gerry makes Faith feel – a sentiment she hadn’t experienced before. The family’s concern revolves around Gerry’s ability to protect Faith’s heart, and he reassures everyone by declaring his love in front of them, leaving no doubt about his intentions.
Gerry’s final hometown date takes him to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where Leslie introduces him to her kids and her brother, who has played a fatherly role since their dad passed away. Gerry understands the significance of her brother’s approval and seeks it before moving forward. The children connect with Gerry, and Leslie’s brother acknowledges the stark difference between Gerry and previous men in her life, ultimately giving him his blessing. Leslie confesses her love for Gerry, and he reciprocates, solidifying their bond.
As the rose ceremony approaches, Gerry’s emotions intensify. He hands the first rose to Leslie, but then becomes overwhelmed and steps outside to collect himself. Although it’s unclear exactly what he’s feeling, it’s evident that he knows what he needs to do, even if it causes pain. The episode ends, leaving viewers in suspense as they wonder who will receive the final rose and continue on to the fantasy suites.
With hometown dates now behind them, Gerry and the remaining women must face the challenges of long-distance relationships head-on. The bonds formed with their families only add to the complexity of the situation. As the journey on The Golden Bachelor continues, viewers eagerly await the next episode, eager to discover who will move forward and who will be left heartbroken. Tune in to ABC on Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT to witness the emotional rollercoaster unfold.