The search for Australia's next Golden Bachelor has been thrown into unexpected turmoil, with two leading candidates for the 2026 season already connected to women from the show's debut series.
Perfect on Paper, Complicated in Reality
Channel Nine has reportedly shortlisted two men as firm contenders: Neil McIntosh, known from the dating show 'My Mum, Your Dad', and charismatic Gold Coast sports commentator Craig Trinder. Both are described as charming, emotionally intelligent, and ideal on paper for the role of the 2026 Golden Bachelor.
However, production insiders have revealed a significant problem. Both men carry romantic baggage that producers were initially unaware of, linked directly to the social circle of the first Golden Bachelor, Barry 'Bear' Myrden.
Romantic Links Threaten Storyline
According to sources, Craig Trinder was romantically linked to media personality Bianca Dye within the past year. Their connection was described as 'fun' and 'flirty', sparking whispers of a Gold Coast romance among industry figures.
Meanwhile, Neil McIntosh has allegedly grown close to Catherine Kirwan, one of the standout bachelorettes from Bear's season. Insiders suggest a spark may still exist there, creating a potential loose end that could completely derail a planned Golden Bachelor narrative.
"If an ex pops up during filming… nightmare," one casting insider admitted, highlighting the producers' concern.
The Tiny Pool of Eligible Bachelors
The situation underscores a broader challenge for the production team. The pool of eligible, charismatic, and emotionally available men over the age of fifty who are also telegenic is remarkably small.
"Honestly, they've all dated someone who knows someone who dated someone else. It's like musical chairs for fifty-something romantics," a source joked. This forces producers to consider candidates with complicated dating histories, as long as they enter the process single and open-hearted.
Despite the complications, both Neil and Craig remain strong contenders. An insider stressed they are "handsome, charming, emotionally intelligent and genuinely lovely blokes," but added, "we just need to make sure they're not already taken!"
Channel Nine is now closely monitoring the relationship status of both men as preparations for the 2026 season continue.
