A few months ago, ABC was exploring potential stars for its highly anticipated new series, The Golden Bachelorette. Among those they approached was Susan Lucci, the beloved soap opera icon best known for her legendary role as Erica Kane on All My Children.
Lucci, 77, has faced profound personal loss in recent years. Her husband, Helmut Huber, passed away in 2022 at the age of 84. The couple had been married for 52 years, sharing a bond that remained strong from their wedding day on September 13, 1969, until Huber’s death on March 28, 2022. Together, they raised two children and delighted in their growing family of grandchildren. Huber, a successful businessman and Austrian-born chef, was a devoted partner throughout Lucci’s celebrated career.
In a candid interview with People magazine, Lucci shared that she had been invited by ABC to become the first-ever Golden Bachelorette. While honored, she graciously declined the opportunity. Lucci also admitted she had recently developed a soft spot for The Bachelor franchise, even calling The Golden Bachelor her “new addiction.”
As the search moved forward, ABC officially announced on May 14 that The Golden Bachelorette will star Joan Vassos, a fan favorite from Season 1 of The Golden Bachelor.
In a heartfelt conversation on the Bachelor Happy Hour: Golden Hour podcast, the 61-year-old widow shared her hopes for the journey ahead. “I really want love,” Vassos said, adding, “I want to have somebody in my life. I believe that sharing life with someone makes everything better. I truly believe that.” She also noted that she found the experience of The Golden Bachelorette more appealing than traditional dating apps, embracing the chance to find a deep, meaningful connection.