‘Golden Bachelorette’ Mark Anderson Says ‘It’s Official’

Bachelor Nation fans only briefly met Mark Anderson when he was on The Bachelor. He’s the father of Kelsey Anderson, the eventual winner of Season 28. His short appearance during Joey Graziadei and Kelsey’s hometown date was more than enough for him to become a fan favorite.

In fact, many viewers thought Mark Anderson was a perfect match for Joan Vassos when he was announced as a suitor on the first Golden Bachelorette season. However, he never formed a strong connection with Joan and was sent home.

During his time on The Bachelor and The Golden Bachelorette, Mark was open about the loss of his wife, who died from cancer in 2018. He eventually found love again but not on reality TV.

He was first linked to One Tree Hill alum Barbara Alyn Woods in October 2024. They further sparked romance rumors by spending the holidays together. They’ve since confirmed that they are in a relationship. Fans have been waiting for the next step. Mark Anderson celebrated on social media about something official happening. Keep reading to find out what’s going on.

Mark Anderson Says ‘It’s Official’

Fans hoping the big announcement was an engagement are sure to be disappointed. While something official happened between Mark Anderson and his lady love, it wasn’t a step toward marriage.

The reality start took to Instagram to share a huge day out the couple had to celebrate his birthday. He turned 58 earlier this month but is still celebrating. “It is official,” he wrote on one photo. “I am spoiled.”

Photos Of The Big Celebration

Just how spoiled? The Golden Bachelorette star shared photos of a date with his girlfriend. The two relaxed in a luxurious restaurant. He also shared photos of a gorgeous birthday cake.

Mark Anderson tagged the Madonna Inn in the city of San Luis Obispo, California, in the post.

Barbara Alyn Woods Reveals How She Pursued Golden Bachelorette Alum

Bachelor Nation fans were surprised by the unexpected pairing between the reality star and the actress. Barbara Alyn Woods revealed on a podcast last month exactly how the relationship happened.

She revealed that she first saw Mark Anderson on The Bachelor and sent him a DM. He never responded. The next thing she knew, he was announced as a contestant on Joan Vassos’ Golden Bachelorette season.

He never answered her first DM so she sent another one saying that he was going to go far on Joan’s season. She was wrong and later realized that he hadn’t responded to her DMs because he was filming the reality show.

Eventually he did respond and the two started talking. The rest is history. Mark Anderson got permission from Kelsey Anderson and his other kids before entering the dating pool after his wife’s death.

Kelsey was actually the one who encouraged him to apply for The Golden Bachelorette. While Mark Anderson didn’t make it official with a ring, it seems his relationship with Barbara Alyn Woods is thriving. Do you think they’ll eventually get married? Sound off in the comments.