Jonathan Rone may not have won over Joan Vassos on The Golden Bachelorette, but the former reality TV contestant has found happiness after his stint in The Bachelor franchise. As a 61-year-old shipping consultant from Oakland, Iowa, Jonathan stood out as a notable contestant on The Golden Bachelorette. Known for his warmth and sincerity, Jonathan’s introduction made a big impression: he arrived wearing a gold mask, expressing his admiration for Joan through a heartfelt poem.
Jonathan, a father of two, is dedicated to his family. He had a challenging romantic history, including a divorce and a long-distance relationship that just didn’t work out. In high school, he also experienced disappointment when he missed his prom, which came back as a prom-themed date with Joan. Unfortunately, he didn't make the cut, and Jonathan was sent home brokenhearted. However, there's reason to believe his heart has mended after The Golden Bachelorette season 1.
Jonathan's Journey On The Golden Bachelorette
He Didn't Make It To The Hometown Dates
Jonathan's journey on The Golden Bachelorette was short, but he made an impact. He joined the show to find love after years of hit-or-miss dating experiences. Living in a small town, he found it difficult to meet people and even pursued a long-distance relationship with a woman who lived in Norway before joining The Golden Bachelorette. On the show, he hoped to build a deeper connection with Joan, sharing family photos and discussing his values as a father. Joan also had strong family ties, and the two could bond over their shared experiences.
During his time on the show, Jonathan’s honesty and vulnerability made him stand out. He connected with Joan on a group date and showed enthusiasm about introducing her to his family. Unfortunately, his journey ended just before the Hometown Dates, when Joan chose not to give him a rose. Joan thanked him for his openness and for helping her feel seen. Regardless, it wasn't enough, and his journey on The Golden Bachelorette came to an end.
Jonathan Learned A Lot From His Time On The Show
He Opened Up With Joan
Jonathan didn't win over Joan's heart on The Golden Bachelorette, but he still learned a lot from his experience on the show. The Iowa native practiced vulnerability, authenticity, and resilience in love, as evidenced by his journey on The Golden Bachelorette. Despite some difficult past relationships, Jonathan used the experience to open himself up to the possibility of a new connection with Joan. This openness helped him embrace the unpredictable aspects of love, moving past his tough divorce. He seemed to have finally put it in the past.
Jonathan Is In A New Relationship
He's Dating A Woman Named Michelle Zimmerman
As of November 2024, Jonathan is dating someone new after getting rejected on The Golden Bachelorette. According to his Instagram account, Jonathan is in a relationship with Michelle Zimmerman. In a touching caption, Jonathan explained, "I started my journey looking for love, a love that is a forever love. A love I thought I once had but this was my second chance! So, I went all in with no walls to protect my vulnerability! I had no other intentions than that!" Luckily, he found the woman of his dreams.
"This journey can be full of expectations but the unexpected happened and 'The Bomb' is the second chance I’ve been looking for! I am so grateful for all the of the support and kind words from all you in the Bachelor Nation! I’m happy to say that Michelle is truly 'My Bomb.'"
Jonathan may not have found love with Joan on The Golden Bachelorette, but he found the vulnerability he needed to get into a meaningful relationship. Problematic contestants Guy Gansert and Chock Chapple were the last two standing in the competition for Joan's heart and she chose Chock. Jonathan didn't win The Golden Bachelorette, but he still won at love.
