Here’s a rewritten version with improved flow and a more conversational tone:
From the moment Gary Levingston danced out of the limo on The Golden Bachelorette, his energy was infectious. The 65-year-old retired finance executive (and godson of Tina Turner) immediately caught the attention of Joan Vassos, the Golden Bachelorette, with his faith, upbeat spirit, and dance moves. Throughout the season, Gary and Joan shared some memorable moments, like posing for photos at the “senior prom” and FaceTiming his son on his birthday. But, despite these sweet interactions, Joan ultimately chose not to give Gary a rose on Wednesday’s episode.
Reflecting on his time on the show, Gary admits it was bittersweet when Joan didn’t choose him, but he has no regrets. “It was a sad moment,” he said, but he’s filled with nothing but happy memories. In an interview, Gary opened up about his final rose ceremony experience, how he felt during the Stand Up To Cancer striptease date, and what his godmother, Tina Turner, might have thought about his reality TV debut.
When asked how he got involved in the show, Gary shared that a church friend gave him an application. At first, he hesitated, thinking, “I’m too private for this.” But after some encouragement and attending an event for his friend, he eventually gave in and applied. Two months later, he found himself on the show.
Gary described his time on The Golden Bachelorette as “sensational” and said it was an experience he wouldn’t trade for anything. While he didn’t know whether Joan would give him a rose at the last ceremony, he said the anticipation was always intense. “Your energy is at an all-time high… you’re standing there, waiting, praying she calls your name.” Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be, and Gary admits it was a sad moment since he hoped the journey would continue.
Gary and Joan’s time together included many special moments, from a prayer he wrote for her to the two watching the sunset after a kickball game. Gary felt that the show’s production team did an excellent job capturing those moments on camera.
Of course, Gary couldn’t escape questions about the Chippendale’s-themed date. Laughing, he explained that it wasn’t his idea to rip open his shirt, but he went along with it after seeing the other guys do it. He recalled thinking, “I’ve got to do this,” and then fully committed to the moment, even though he laughed at himself later while watching the episode.
When it comes to dating after the show, Gary said it boosted his confidence and reminded him that it’s okay to pat yourself on the back sometimes. Although he’s received plenty of messages from women hoping to connect, he’s not ready to dive into that just yet, joking that he responds with a simple rose emoji as a polite acknowledgment.
As for what his late godmother, Tina Turner, would’ve thought of his appearance on The Golden Bachelorette, Gary believes she would’ve laughed at first but ultimately been proud of him. “I know she’s looking down from Heaven, saying, ‘Job well done,’” he said.
Looking ahead, Gary thinks his fellow contestant, Chock, has the best emotional connection with Joan. He also mentioned there could be a “dark horse” in Dr. Guy. When asked about a potential reunion with the other contestants, Gary said it doesn’t matter what they do as long as they’re together—it will be special, filled with laughter, and a chance to relive their unique journey.
Despite not making it to the end, Gary feels at peace with how things turned out. He remains positive, knowing that sometimes things just don’t work out as planned, but that doesn’t mean it’s over.