Meet the Golden Bachelor season 1 runner-up who is turning heads in Bachelor in Paradise- Find out everything about Leslie Fhima here.
Leslie Fhima has been winning hearts since her The Golden Bachelor days. Her journey with Gerry Turner was loved by many, and she ultimately ended her time there as a runner-up. She has now made her much-anticipated debut as part of the season 10 cast of Bachelor in Paradise. Fhima is loved for her athleticism, emotional depth, and vibrant personality.
Now, she’s ready for another shot at love on the Costa Rican beach with other Golden contestants. Her return marks an amazing moment for the franchise, as season 10 is the first time that the Golden cast members will be featured. Fhima’s openness and bold spirit, combined with her maturity, will surely add to the drama and group dynamics.
But who is Leslie Fhima beyond the romance, rose ceremonies, and amazing sunsets? It’s now time to dive into her background, age, and more.
How Old Is Leslie Fhima?
Born on Dec. 28, 1958, Leslie Fhima is 66 years old in 2025 at the time of writing. She comes from Golden Valley, Minnesota, and has enjoyed a life of adventures. Fhima is a former aerobics champion and professional figure skater, and has also finished 10 marathons.
This has showcased her continued dedication to endurance and health. In a 2023 interview with Star Tribune, Fhima revealed her secret to looking great at 60+ years of age. She said:
I take everything in moderation. I feel like if you do that, then you don’t have to play catch-up or do Dry January. And that’s kind of been my way of life — except I may exercise a little bit more. [Laughs.]
Fhima also explained that she doesn’t turn down the opportunity to do things. The Golden Bachelor contestant said:
I also think that I don’t say no to a lot of things. If someone would call me and say, “Do you want to go to a concert?” Do I really want to go to a concert on a Tuesday night? No, but I’m going. I just feel like you’ve got to enjoy life now because it’s all we’ve got.
Her age makes her a part of the Golden contestant category; however, Fhima’s charisma and energy make her a wildcard. She is a mom of three and is a grandmother as well. But she hasn’t let age define her lifestyle.
Leslie Fhima’s Nationality and Ethnicity
Leslie Fhima is an American, as she was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is Caucasian and is proud of her Jewish heritage. Due to this, she wears the Star of David necklace often and was also seen wearing it during The Golden Bachelor.
In an interview with Ashley Iaconetti and Ben Higgins on the Almost Famous podcast, Fhima stated that dating someone from the Jewish faith was important for her. She revealed this when the hosts asked her about the rumors of her dating Jordan Heller, a contestant of The Golden Bachelorette.
She denied dating him but said that they would be compatible for a variety of reasons, which included their shared Jewish faith. She explained:
Jordan, I feel like we have a lot in common. I know that he’s funny; I love funny. He lives in Chicago; I live in Minneapolis. He has a dog; I have a dog. Stuff like that’s important. And we’re both Jewish, and, at the end of the day, that’s important to me as well. I mean, it’s not heart-stop, I have to have someone Jewish, but if you meet someone, and they are your faith, that’s just the icing on the cake.
Fhima also shares strong family values. Her father, Melvin Paster, served in the U.S. Air Force, and her mother, Shirley Paster, was a bookkeeper. Her beliefs and upbringing paint a picture of a woman who believes in authenticity and working hard.
Leslie Fhima’s Bachelor Nation Journey
Leslie Fhima first appeared in season 1 of The Golden Bachelor, where she won viewers’ hearts with her playful personality and youthful demeanor. Sparks immediately flew with Gerry Turner, and she made it to the final two. However, Gerry broke Fhima’s heart and chose Theresa Nist. But her vulnerability, dedication, and love toward Gerry won her a dedicated fan base.
Thankfully, her journey didn’t end there, and she returned in Bachelor in Paradise season 10, joining younger contestants in Costa Rica. Her arrival made longtime fans emotional and young viewers excited to witness new drama in the group. It will be interesting to see if she will be able to find the love she is looking for in this show.
Which Golden Man do you think will be right for Leslie Fhima? Do you think Fhima will find her soulmate this time? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
