The Golden Bachelorette: Signs Mark Anderson Regrets Appearing On The Show (He's Moving On With A One Tree Hill Star - Will He Become The Golden Bachelor?)

Mark Anderson, one of 24 contestants on The Golden Bachelorette, stood out for his charisma and good nature. Although Mark appeared natural on screen, his stint on the show was only his second time in front of cameras. Mark first debuted on The Bachelor season 28 as the father of Kelsey Anderson. Mark instantly qualified as a fan favorite, and his popularity seemingly encouraged producers to invite the single father to the first season of the senior spin-off. Fans worldwide were rooting for Mark on The Golden Bachelorette season 1.

He and Joan Vassos shared similarities as they bonded over the difficulty of losing a partner to cancer. Unfortunately, they weren't the perfect fit. While Joan shared her adoration for Mark, she believed she was not as ready as she was for love. Before her hometown dates, Joan eliminated Mark. He stepped down gracefully but hasn’t let his rejection affect his love life. Mark was seen with One Tree Hill actress Barbara Wood, sparking romance rumors. While Mark’s involvement on the dating show was a valuable experience, he may regret his appearance as he delves back into the dating scene.

Mark's Rumored To Be Dating Barbara Wood From One Tree Hill

Mark Is Moving On

A post on Barbara’s Instagram took the internet by storm. In an image captioned, “When Cinderella and Prince Charming have a baby…” Barbara can be seen in the princess’s costume accompanied by The Golden Bachelorette alum, dressed appropriately as Prince Charming. Barbara’s daughter, Natalie Alyn Lind, is featured as the Star Wars character Grogu. The post’s caption and Kelsey’s “so cute” comment implied a budding romance. Fans are excited by the prospect of Mark pursuing love again.

With comments like, “My OTH and Bachelor Nation worlds colliding‼️” and “PLEASE TELL ME THIS IS REAL!,” it’s clear the stars’ relationship is fully supported by their fans. While devastating, Mark’s elimination from The Golden Bachelorette will not hinder his search for a lifelong partner. The hard launch of Mark and Barbara's alleged relationship may have been prompted by his rejection.

Mark may have left the show feeling disheartened by his elimination. He wore his heart on his sleeve throughout Joan’s season. When Joan ultimately ruled out the father of five, he harbored no resentment but was disappointed. Mark’s poised nature could not hide his dismay. Now, he is letting the world know he is more than capable of finding love without the added pressure of a camera crew.

Mark's Sensitive & He May Still Feel The Sting Of Joan's Rejection

Mark Will Need Time To Recover

Custom Image by César García

Being turned down, especially after revealing one’s vulnerability, can be incredibly hard. Mark opened up to Joan, expressing his pain of losing his wife and the grief that followed. While Joan commiserated, her decision to send Mark home must have crushed him. He has not been very romantically active following his wife’s death, making this rejection all the more upsetting.

This experience, in which Mark poured his heart out and was turned down, must have been distressing for him. The possible embarrassment and dismay could have brought up some repressed feelings of loss following his wife’s passing. It does not seem like the experience was worth his emotional commitment and potential trauma.

Will Mark Be The Golden Bachelor?

Mark May Not Want To Return

Rumors regarding the lead man of The Golden Bachelor season 2 have been circulating, and Mark is a top contender. As a recurring personality with a large fan following, Mark would be a great fit. He is observant, kind, genuine, funny, and compassionate. What else would one ask for in a partner? Unfortunately, Mark’s stint on the show and subsequent involvement with Barbara could discourage the father from participating.

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If Mark finds love with Barbara, he would have no incentive to return to reality TV. This could be the last adoring fans will see of the lovable character. Audiences would be devastated after growing excited by the prospect of following Mark’s journey for another season. Mark would also be turning down a financial opportunity. According to a report by FoxBusiness, The Bachelor leads are estimated to make between $100,000 and $250,000. These numbers are nothing to scoff at.

His previous experience and ultimate elimination may dissuade him from another season either way. Mark’s public rejection must have been hard on his self-esteem. Participating again and allowing more vulnerability with the potential for failure could be a risky move for Mark, who is sensitive. It seems unlikely, at this point, that Mark is vying to return for another season.

Mark made an incredible contestant on the first-ever season of The Golden Bachelorette. Although Mark would make a great partner, Joan didn’t feel he was the right fit for her. This televised rejection must have been traumatic for the kind-hearted father. His involvement with Barbara and lingering resentment for the show may discourage him from participating again. Hopefully, the star will confirm soon that he has finally found his one without needing a camera crew.

Sources: Barbara Wood/Instagram, FoxBusiness

The Golden Bachelorette: This reality series offers one woman in her later years the opportunity to find love, as a group of seasoned men compete for her affection. Participants bring diverse romantic histories, seeking a meaningful connection and a chance to build a promising future together.

Streaming Service(s) Hulu