In a world where reality TV often feels like a carousel of fleeting romances and dramatic exits, The Golden Bachelor Australia introduces something refreshingly real: a story of love, loss, resilience, and the courage to begin again. At the center of this heartfelt journey is Barry “Bear” Myrden, a 61-year-old widowed father of three, whose life has already touched millions—and now, he’s ready to open his heart once more.
A Love That Wasn’t Meant to Last Forever
Thirteen years ago, Australia met Bear under the most heartbreaking circumstances. His beloved wife, Audrey, was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor at just 43. With only nine months to live, Audrey’s final wish was simple yet profound: to give her boys a home of their own. The Sydney property market was unforgiving, but the nation rallied behind Bear and Audrey. In a stunning act of compassion, viewers helped the family secure and renovate a home in just ten days—a sanctuary where they could spend Audrey’s final months together.
Bear became a full-time carer, a devoted husband, and a pillar of strength for his three sons—Charlie, Jack, and Declan. His story was one of survival, sacrifice, and unconditional love. “I just had no choice but to go into survival mode,” Bear recalled. “It was very tough, but it was a godsend. I think I did my job well, and she’d be proud of it.”
A New Dawn: The Golden Bachelor Emerges
Fast forward to today, and Bear is stepping into a new chapter. With his boys now grown—aged 18, 21, and 22—he’s ready to rediscover love. Channel Nine’s announcement of Bear as Australia’s first Golden Bachelor was met with excitement and admiration. The show, a spinoff of the beloved Bachelor franchise, focuses on mature singles over 50 looking for meaningful connections. And Bear, with his silver fox charm and rugged warmth, is the perfect leading man.
“It’s a bit surreal,” Bear admitted during his debut. “It’s an incredible privilege that 20 remarkable women are willing to come on this journey with me, for all of us to have the courage to open our hearts and take the chance to fall in love again.”
More Than Just a Bachelor: Meet the Man Behind the Roses
Bear isn’t just a reality TV heartthrob—he’s an accomplished engineer, a rugby enthusiast, and a boating aficionado. Known among his colleagues as “Boat MacGyver,” Bear’s hands-on skills and adventurous spirit make him a standout. But it’s his emotional depth and unwavering devotion to family that truly set him apart.
His friends describe him as a “strong, protective man with deep love for family and adventure.” And now, with the support of his sons, Bear is ready to embrace vulnerability and romance once more. “My kids just said, ‘Why not jump at opportunities?’ So I said, ‘Sure, why not?’ And here I am.”
The Women, The Roses, and The Journey Ahead
As Bear steps into the spotlight, more than 20 women will be vying for his heart. From the moment he walked onto the set, the admiration was palpable. “All the girls are just eyes on Bear,” one host quipped. Another joked, “They didn’t tell me I was interviewing Superman today. Look at the jaw on you!”
Among the hopefuls is Elizabeth, who introduced herself as the “warrior princess” ready to sweep Bear off his feet. Sunny, another contestant, brought her own ray of sunshine to the show. Each woman brings her own story, her own dreams, and her own hope for a second chance at love.
A Nation Watches, A Family Cheers
As Bear’s journey unfolds on national television, his sons will be watching—and cheering—from the sidelines. “Charlie, Jack, and Declan will definitely be in the cheer squad,” Bear said with a smile. Though they might cringe at the thought of Dad planting a kiss on screen, their support is unwavering.
Even Bear’s neighbors are getting in on the excitement, planning watch parties in the middle of their cul-de-sac. It’s a testament to how deeply Bear’s story resonates—not just as entertainment, but as a celebration of life’s second chances.
Is It Ever Too Late to Fall in Love?
Bear’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to fall in love. Life throws curveballs—tragedy, loss, unexpected turns—but the heart remains resilient. “Tragedy and different circumstances happen to us all,” Bear reflected. “You just got to put yourself out there.”
In a world dominated by dating apps and fleeting connections, Bear’s decision to seek love on national TV is both brave and inspiring. It’s a leap of faith, a testament to hope, and a celebration of the human spirit.
