The Golden Bachelor 2023: Marina Perera age, why she left the show, and more

One face that we didn’t see in the second episode of The Golden Bachelor is none other than Marina Perera. Apparently, the contestant had to exit the series prematurely which is why she was absent after securing her first rose from Gerry Turner.

Before we get into why Marina chose to leave the dating series, allow us to tell you a little about the former competitor who made an impression on the first night of the show. Here’s what to know about The Golden Bachelor‘s contestant!

What to know about The Golden Bachelor’s Marina Perera

Starting off with one fact we love the most, Marina is a mother of four, two beautiful kids and two adorable pets to match. This lets us know that she is a huge family person, which many can definitely relate to. What’s more, Marina loves traveling, so we assume that she has quite a few stories about her many journeys around the world with friends and family.

Check out a couple more facts about Marina, including her hometown, below.

• Age: 60
• Hometown: Los Angeles, California
• Occupation: Education
• Instagram: @sonalimarinaperera

Besides traveling and spending time with her family, Marina’s hobbies include hiking and going on long drives. Living in California will certainly do that to someone, given the many mountains and beautiful, long roads. Maybe Marina is also a lover of cars. If so, we can’t help but wonder what kind of car she drives and if it matches her cute personality.

Last but certainly not least, Marina has visited over 34 countries, an achievement that not many can say that they have accomplished. (Where will she go next?!)

Why Marina Perera left The Golden Bachelor

Sadly, as much as you may love Marina, you won’t be seeing her on The Golden Bachelor anymore, as she had to leave early due to family issues back at home. Decider reports that, before the California native departed, she spoke with Gerry Turner to give him a goodbye.

“The thing I wanted to tell you, I’m a single mom, and I had to choose my family and support my family’s needs at this time,” Marina told Gerry on the phone. “I am sorry that I had to leave, but at the same time I had to get my priorities straight.”

Gerry understood 100% and gave Marina his very best wishes to her and her family.

“I fully understand — commitment to family overrides just about everything else,” Gerry expressed. “I really respect you for doing what you’ve done. I agree with you 100 percent that you needed to put your family needs before everything else.”

Naturally, we hope to see Marina Perera again. But if not, we’re more than glad to have met her at least once in our lifetime.