"I'm 66 years old, but I look like 36."
It's easily one of my favorite lines from the first episode of The Golden Bachelorette. What makes it even better is that it was delivered by the most lovable and charming 66-year-old named Charles L.—a retired data analyst and widower who's embarking on a new quest to find love with Joan Vassos. He's a proud father of two, he's funny (and he knows it) and he values commitment, as evidenced by his 36-year marriage with his late wife.
I watched his story and closely observed his first moments with Joan in episode one, and I just couldn't help but develop a soft spot for the guy. He was incredibly polite, totally at ease (and, dare I say, gentle) in his interactions with the bachelorette. But the icing on the cake? When he reminded Joan to prioritize her journey in this wild process of finding the right partner.
Before they parted ways, he looked Joan in the eyes and said, "This is your journey to find love...It's our journey, but Charles is not in charge. Joan, you are in charge."
