Charles L. Reacts to Being Eliminated From Joan Vassos’ Season of ‘The Golden Bachelorette’

Charles Ling will always look back at his journey vying for the affections of Joan Vassos on The Golden Bachelorette fondly.

When asked whether he was “shocked” to get sent home during the Wednesday, October 9, episode of The Golden Bachelorette , Charles L., 66, said, “No.”

“I sensed it,” Charles L. elaborated on the Thursday, October 10, episode of the “Bachelor Happy Hour” podcast. “I have the data. Why? Because I look around and I sensed.”

Charles L. explained that he knew his elimination was coming “between this time or the next” rose ceremony, noting that he had a feeling it was “getting closer.” He added, “I kind of sensed I’m not one of the few final ones.”

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Despite his exit, Charles L. said that his friendships he formed with the other men transcend their time on the show.

“The cast members, we support each other but we don’t compete [against] each other in a sense,” he explained. “In the end, Joan can only pick one gentleman, as you know that. We will be very happy whoever she is going to pick.”

Charles L. credits the show — and his cast members — for helping him open up about his “sorrows.” He added, “[They] say, ‘Charles, it’s OK, we know it’s sad. But it’s also OK to move on, when opportunity knocks on my door.’”

He is also grateful for the friendship he formed with Joan, 61. “We like each other, but as you know, like each other is one thing. To love each other is another thing,” he said. “I’m happy for Joan. She continues her journey to find the best one she really loves.”

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As he navigates his dating life, Charles L. said he’s not ruling out the idea of being the next Golden Bachelor. “I haven’t thought about it yet, but if that opportunity arises, why not?” he said.

Charles L. admitted it was a “surprise” to him that he captured the hearts of Bachelor Nation during his stint on the ABC spinoff show. While giving a message to his supporters, Charles L. said, “Please tell the fans Charles miss them and Charles thank them for their love and support.”

It’s not just fans who have been loving watching Charles L. on the TV screen week after week. Host Jesse Palmer exclusively told Us Weekly that Charles L. held a special place in his heart.

“I totally get why America has fallen so hard for Charles L.,” Jesse, 45, said. “He’s legendary. I love the guy.”

Jesse called Charles L. “a national treasure,” adding that the former contestant is “so sincere” and “organic.” Jesse quipped, “You just wanna put him in your pocket and you just wanna carry Charles around with you.”

The Golden Bachelorette airs on ABC Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET.