The Golden Bachelorette has taken an intriguing turn with Joan Vassos, who became engaged to Chock Chapple at the season finale. However, several clues suggest that this couple might not make it to the altar. Joan, a 61-year-old private school administrator from Maryland, entered this journey as a familiar face, having previously participated in The Golden Bachelor, where she competed for Gerry Turner’s affection, only to exit early due to a family emergency. Little did she know, her adventure with the Bachelor franchise was just beginning.
The success of the first season of The Golden Bachelor paved the way for a female-led edition, leading to ABC’s announcement that Joan would be the star of The Golden Bachelorette. Waiting outside the Bachelor mansion to greet her own 24 suitors, including insurance executive Chock from Kansas, Joan immediately felt a connection with him. After a whirlwind romance cemented by a solo date, it was no surprise when she ultimately chose Chock and presented him with her final rose. While appearing to be happily in love, various factors lead one to speculate if they’ll actually tie the knot. Here are 8 reasons why this couple may struggle to say “I do.”
1. Signs of Bickering
Communication Styles Differ
After their engagement, Joan and Chock prioritized spending time together to deepen their understanding of one another. A recent Instagram video of them preparing Kansas City-style barbecue together provided a glimpse into their dynamic. Although they appeared to enjoy themselves, tensions surfaced when Joan criticized Chock’s technique for cutting meat. Such interactions indicate that even in the happiest relationships, conflicts can emerge.
2. Family Dynamics in Flux
Navigating Children from Previous Marriages
Joan and Chock each have children from previous relationships, which can complicate their new romance. With Joan’s four adult children and Chock’s two young adults, integrating their families is critical. They recently celebrated Thanksgiving together, and Joan shared their intentions for a joint Christmas gathering in Kansas. However, remarks made by Joan about the difficulties of blending families suggest that some of their children might not be fully supportive of their relationship.
3. The Pressure of Fame
Public Scrutiny and Relationship Strain
While some thrive in the public eye, others find it challenging. Having participated in two reality shows, Joan has expressed an interest in further fame, potentially leading to complications. Both she and Chock enjoy sharing their relationship online, cultivating significant social media followings—Joan boasts 172K followers while Chock has 72.5K. However, living under constant media scrutiny could introduce pressures that jeopardize their bond.
4. Lingering Emotional Ties
A Heart Still Close to the Past
Joan’s previous love story with her late husband, John Vassos, whom she was married to for 32 years before his death in 2021, continues to affect her. She has openly discussed her feelings of guilt concerning her new relationship and often acknowledges that John will always hold a special place in her heart. This emotional complexity could hinder her openness to a new marriage.
5. Chock’s Grief
Navigating Loss of a Fiancée
Chock, too, carries the scars of lost love, having been engaged to Katherine Goree for nine years before her passing in 2022. His bond with her family remains strong, which may complicate his relationship with Joan. Given the recentness of his loss, one has to wonder if he’s truly ready to embark on a new chapter with Joan or if he is still grappling with his grief.
6. A Disinterest in Marriage
Joan Prefers a Flexible Relationship
Throughout her journey in the franchise, Joan has made it clear that she is not rushing into marriage. After accepting Chock’s proposal, she remains cautious and wary of the commitments that come with marriage, possibly stemming from witnessing the turbulent relationship of others on the same platform.
7. The Quest for Perfection
Display of Affection or Pressure?
Despite having left the show, Joan and Chock might still feel the need to perform for cameras. Their numerous social media posts showcasing their affection could suggest an overemphasis on maintaining a perfect image, raising questions about the authenticity of their connection.
8. Essentially Strangers
Unfamiliarity Breeds Doubt
Although they are engaged, the reality is that Joan and Chock are still getting to know one another. Instances where Chock unknowingly fell into Joan’s pet peeves, such as using her phone charger, reveal the existing gap in their understanding of each other. Living together will expose their true compatibility, giving their relationship the ultimate test.
Go to Vassos |
61 years old |
Private School Administrator |
Maryland |
172K Instagram Followers |
Chock Chapple |
60 years old |
Insurance Executive |
Kansas |
72.5K Instagram Followers |
You can catch The Golden Bachelorette season 1 streaming on Hulu.
Sources: Joan Vassos /Instagram, Joan Vassos /Instagram, CNN , Joan Vassos /Instagram, E! News
Leave a Reply