An Alexandria woman joined the cast of “Bachelor in Paradise” this week, marking the first time senior contestants have appeared on the reality dating show.
Nancy Hulkower, 62, a retired interior designer, arrived at the Costa Rica filming location during Monday’s episode. She previously competed on “The Golden Bachelor” in 2023, where she was eliminated in the fourth week.
The show’s 10th season includes 10 contestants from “The Golden Bachelor” and “The Golden Bachelorette” alongside younger cast members. Hulkower joined fellow seniors Gary Levingston, 66, and Faith Martin, 62, in Monday’s episode.
According to ABC, Hulkower is a mother of three who enjoys golf, walking her goldendoodle, and watching college basketball. The network describes her as seeking “a self-assured, trustworthy man with whom to share her life.”
According to IndyStar, Hulkower has lived in Alexandria since 1988 after growing up in Warsaw, Indiana. She is the widow of attorney Mark J. Hulkower, who prosecuted CIA traitor Aldrich Ames for treason. Her husband died in 2011.
“Bachelor in Paradise” brings together former contestants from ABC’s dating franchise to form relationships at a beach resort. The series airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on ABC and streams on Hulu.
The integration of senior contestants represents a format change for the show, which typically features participants in their 20s and 30s.
