This week’s episode of The Golden Bachelorette was packed with surprises, emotional revelations, and a few quirky moments as Joan Vassos continues her search for love. As the competition heats up and the group of men narrows from 11 to 7, we see deeper connections forming—and some unexpected returns.

Why Aren’t the Goldens Traveling?

One question looms large: Why haven’t we seen any real travel this season? Fans of the Bachelor franchise are used to jet-setting dates, but so far, Joan and her men have stayed grounded. Sure, there have been trips to Disneyland and Las Vegas, but we’re missing the grand balcony moments where the cast shouts the lead’s name from a picturesque locale. With all those sponsorship dollars, could we at least get Charles in Germany, sporting Lederhosen?

The Chock Fake-Out and Charles’ Tai Chi Lesson

The episode opens with a teaser showing Chock and Joan in an emotional embrace, as it seems Chock is preparing to say goodbye. But before we dive into that, we’re treated to a calmer scene of Charles leading the men in what appears to be tai chi. Did Charles offer to teach this class? Maybe they’re all sharing special skills, though Pascal’s would likely involve paying someone else to do the work for him.

This week features two one-on-one dates and one group date. Jordan and Guy are selected for the one-on-ones, while Jonathan, Pascal, Dan, Charles, Gary, Mark, Gil, Chock, and Keith head out for a group date that promises to be revealing—literally.

Group Date: Sexy Man Dancing for Charity

For the group date, the men arrive at a theater where they meet Kaitlyn Bristowe and a crew of original Chippendales dancers. The theme? "Sexy Man Dancing for Charity," with the men set to perform for an audience to raise money for Stand Up to Cancer. The Chippendales emphasize the importance of the body roll, a key move in their routine, and the guys take note.

Keith is particularly excited, revealing that he’s wanted to be a Chippendales dancer since he was 20. Meanwhile, Chock jokes that he needs three glasses of Chardonnay to get through the day—comments that Joan would likely appreciate. The men each pick their outfits for the performance, with Jonathan donning sparkly gold underpants and Charles sporting a Hawaiian shirt and baseball cap.

As the men take the stage, they each perform their solo moments, with Jonathan confidently stripping down to his gold briefs, and Gary winning hearts with his "little butt thing" dance. But it’s Chock who steals the show with some overly enthusiastic pelvic thrusts, which leave Joan a little uncomfortable. Nevertheless, Chock receives the group date rose, solidifying his status as Joan’s top connection so far.

A Heartbreaking Twist: Chock’s Loss

While the group date seemed like fun and games, the mood quickly shifts when Chock reveals that his mother passed away early the next morning. It’s his first experience losing a parent, and the news clearly shakes him. The men rally around him, offering support as Chock tearfully shares his grief with Joan. She offers him comfort and understanding, even recalling the moment when her husband John passed away while she was in another room. This conversation is one of the episode’s most emotional moments.

Jordan’s One-on-One: Ice Skating and REO Speedwagon

After saying goodbye to Chock, Joan transitions into her one-on-one date with Jordan, which takes place on an ice-skating rink. Jordan admits that ice skating isn’t his strong suit, and his frequent falls are proof of that. But the date takes a magical turn when REO Speedwagon makes a surprise appearance, performing their classic hit "I Can’t Fight This Feeling." Jordan earns a rose at the end of the date, and the two share a kiss, with Joan clearly charmed by his vulnerability and humor.

Guy’s One-on-One: Awkward Cooking and a Dopamine Surge

Next up is Guy, who, despite his handsome doctor appearance, gives off awkward vibes. Joan tries to guide him through a cooking session, but when he struggles to zest a lemon, it’s clear he’s out of his element. Despite the awkwardness, Joan sees potential in Guy and gives him a rose. Guy, thrilled by their connection, describes his emotional high as a “dopamine surge”—a fitting phrase from a doctor.

Cheerios, Chock’s Return, and Cocktail Party Tensions

At the cocktail party, Jonathan pulls Joan aside for a sponsored date where they eat Cheerios and compare morning routines. Meanwhile, Keith takes the opportunity to remind Joan how much the first-impression rose meant to him, but his eagerness starts to feel like pressure. In a moment of self-awareness, Keith admits to fellow contestant Dan that he “shat the bed” with his approach.

The evening takes a surprising turn when Chock returns unexpectedly. It’s unclear how long he was gone or what exactly happened, but his reappearance shocks the other men. Could it be that producers knew how strong Joan’s connection with Chock was and found a way to bring him back into the mix?

Rose Ceremony: Who Went Home?

As the competition intensifies, Joan has only four roses to give out. Pascal, Jonathan, Mark, and a very nervous Keith receive roses, meaning that Gil, Gary, Charles, and Dan are sent home.

The eliminations hit hard, particularly with the departure of Charles and Gary—two of the season’s most beloved personalities. Charles, in particular, leaves on a heartwarming note, telling Joan that while he didn’t find romantic love, he did find a different kind of love with the men in the house.

Final Thoughts and What’s Next

As we move further into the season, Joan’s journey is becoming more emotionally complex. With her connections deepening and the number of men shrinking, the stakes are higher than ever. Next week promises even more drama, with Magic Mike-style performances and the possibility that Chock may leave voluntarily—for real this time.

Stay tuned for more twists and turns on The Golden Bachelorette!