Leslie Fhima Spills Casting Secrets from Golden Bachelorette and DWTS

Leslie Fhima was rumored to be the lead of The Golden Bachelorette. However, Joan Vassos took on that role. The other rumor was that Leslie was asked to join Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars. She’s breaking her silence and spilling on the casting secrets behind both ABC shows.

Addresses Golden Bachelorette Rumors

Leslie appeared on the Bachmakers podcast and discussed whether she the show approached her to become the first-ever Golden Bachelorette. Fans felt Leslie locked in that opportunity after Gerry Turner didn’t choose her for the final rose. In a shocking twist, he chose Theresa Nist. The two ended their marriage just three months after their live wedding.

Leslie quickly became a fan favorite and was one of the top choices to lead the Golden Bachelorette. Yet, those talks never made it to the ABC boardroom. Leslie was not on their mind. In the interview, she denied the rumor that she turned down the opportunity.

Leslie clarified that she would’ve been on board with the idea. However, she doesn’t feel any resentment toward the show. Ultimately, ABC decided to give Joan another chance at love. She ended up finding love with Chock Chapple.

Almost Joined the DWTS Season 33 Cast

Dancing with the Stars wrapped up its 33rd season last month, but there are still talks about whether Leslie was supposed to be part of the cast. She revealed those casting secrets and that she had to keep a secret about her deal.

Leslie was determined to win the Mirrorball Trophy. She prepared for the show by hiring a personal trainer. In August, Leslie found out that the show had chosen someone else. She didn’t reveal who replaced her on the Season 33 cast.

It’s possible it could’ve been The Bachelorette alum Jenn Tran, who was dumped on public television that same month. Leslie was disappointed. At the time, she turned down an opportunity to film a show with Hulu. She turned it down because she thought it would cause a scheduling conflict with DWTS.

Leslie learned an important lesson. She will no longer accept offers unless something is “100%” in the works. Now, she’s open to every opportunity that comes her way. Also, on the podcast, Leslie addressed the romance rumors between her and Golden Bachelorette alum Jordan Kelleher.