Pascal Ibgui of The Golden Bachelorette has been making headlines for his controversial behavior following his involvement in the show. The Frenchman had established a strong connection with the leading lady, Joan Vassos, as one of only three contestants left. By the overnight dates in Tahiti, Pascal revealed to Joan that he was unsure of their future. Claiming that the pair did not share a spark, he walked away from the show and, ultimately, Joan.
Joan was devastated by this revelation. Pascal’s charisma, humor, and honesty resonated with Joan and many of his fellow competitors throughout The Golden Bachelorette season 1. While Pascal doesn’t appear as “wholesome” or “perfect” as some of his opposition, his personality won over many fans. If Pascal is cast as next season’s Golden Bachelor, the show could subvert the rumors regarding producer interference. Pascal’s unfiltered honesty may save the franchise from further backlash.
Pascal Accused Producers Of Interference
Pascal Will Be Transparent
Pascal made it clear he would be transparent regarding the filming process. After self-eliminating in the final hour, Pascal talked with Glamour magazine about his impression of his fellow bachelors and his ultimate split with Joan. The business owner reiterated the producer’s involvement in the sensational split with a bold accusation. He told the news outlet that he felt manipulated into the break-up.
His outward dissatisfaction with the show proves that, if he were cast as a lead, the show would not be accused of meddling with the process.
While he tried to be “diplomatic” and gently express his feelings for Joan, the producers pushed him to tell her he was not in love. Pascal told the interviewer, “The producer [explained I should be clearer that I wasn’t in love with her], but I was [hesitant] to use that word.” He left feeling guilty about the split and Joan’s subsequent pain. His outward dissatisfaction with the show proves that, if he were cast as a lead, the show would not be accused of meddling with the process.
Pascal's Outspoken & Doesn't Fake A Persona
Pascal Values Sincerity
Pascal may be many things, but he is not dishonest. Throughout the show, and even in the following interviews, Pascal has been open about his experience and expectations. He told the outlet, “My friends love me because they said, 'You say it the way it is.' Sometimes I [need to be] filtered, but this is my personality.” Pascal will not pretend to be someone he's not, which would be a welcome characteristic after The Golden Bachelor’s Gerry Turner caused backlash for his false persona.
Pascal Doesn't Fit The Soft & Romantic Template
Pascal Stands Out
Unlike other contestants, Pascal does not try to present himself as a hopeless romantic. He is a well-established salon owner with a network and a life outside of dating. He has expressed his unwillingness to sacrifice his livelihood for a potential relationship. Pascal even called out opposition Chock Chapple when illustrating the significance of dating as a senior.
When prompted by the interviewer, he shared, “Oh my God, let’s just be realistic. We are mature men. We’ve been through some marriage, some divorce. We had our struggles and our pain and anxiety, and it’s not that easy to say “I’m in love.” Although Pascal has been vocal about his desire to find a partner, he won’t compromise his integrity.
Pascal would make a fantastic lead for the male-led spin-off of The Golden Bachelorette. His unfiltered honesty and humor would make an incredibly entertaining season. If he were cast, the franchise could prove to the audience that they are willing to prioritize romance over ratings. Fans can only hope the next season will follow a similarly candid lead.