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Joan Vassos hasn’t found her perfect love on The Golden Bachelorette just yet. Still, she has an impressive pool of contestants who fans already may suspect could become the next Golden Bachelor — should ABC choose to move forward with the series. If they do, we think these three contestants would make ideal leads.

Charles Ling became a fan-favorite despite his lack of chemistry with Joan Vassos

The internet has a massive crush on Charles Ling, a retired financial analyst from Pennsylvania. Charles and Joan didn’t seem to have much chemistry, but The Golden Bachelorette fans are confident the perfect woman is out there for Charles. Much to viewers ‘ dismay, Ling was eliminated from the competition in week four. Still, he took it well, and it does free him up to find someone who is a better fit for him.

Charles Ling in promotional photos for 'The Golden Bachelorette'
Charles Ling | Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Why does everyone love Charles? Not only was he kind, helpful, and empathetic to the men around him, but he appeared completely honest and genuine when interacting with Joan Vassos. Yes, he’s clearly still grieving the loss of his wife. But we feel certain a new love is out there for him. We, somewhat selfishly, would love to see him find it on national TV as the next Golden Bachelor.  

Everyone wants to see Mark Anderson find love again

Mark Anderson already had a connection to Bachelor Nation when he stepped out of the final “special” limo on night one of The Golden Bachelorette. His daughter, Kelsey Anderson, found love on The Bachelor. Understandably, fans fell in love with the Army Veteran and widower during that appearance. While he’s still in the running for Joan Vassos’ heart, fans would love to see him pick from a pool of women if things with Joan don’t work out.

Mark Anderson and Joan Vassos meet for the first time
Mark Anderson and Joan Vassos | Disney/Gilles Mingasson

In fact, fans were throwing Mark Anderson’s name around as the potential next Golden Bachelor long before he appeared to compete for Joan’s affection. Assuming things don’t work out, he’s undoubtedly a shoo-in for the role of the golden bachelor. That is, of course, if ABC moves forward with a second season.

Gary Levingston might be ‘rusty’ when it comes to dating, but he’d make a good Golden Bachelor

Gary Levingston was cut in week four alongside Charles Ling, making fans of the series doubly sad. He was another contestant who was well-liked by both fans and other contestants. While things between Gary and Joan didn’t work out, he’s not bitter about it. He insists he would love to remain friends with Joan moving forward, admitting that they had a friendship rather than a romantic relationship. Even though he didn’t find love, the show helped him realize he’s ready to return to dating.

Gary Levingston on 'The Golden Bachelorette'
Gary Levingston | Disney/Ricky Middlesworth
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In an interview with People, Gary said he’s hopeful about his chances of finding love. He told the publication, “I just have to continue to wait and stay in prayer, and she’s going to be everything that I could have ever imagined.” Fans want to see him find that love on The Golden Bachelor season 2. His genuine nature, jovial personality, and down-to-earth vibes make him an ideal lead for the next season of The Golden Bachelor.