CHICAGO MADE

INTERVIEW: Chicago’s Pascal Ibgui talks Golden Bachelorette and love

By Colin Costello
May 30, 2025

If you live in Chicago and have great hair, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Pascal Ibgui. The Paris-born, Chicago-based salon owner has built a decades-spanning reputation as one of the city’s most sought-after tastemakers, thanks to his expertise in beauty, his fashion-forward style, and his effortless French charm. But it wasn’t until he stepped into the national spotlight on The Golden Bachelorette that the rest of America fell for him.

Pascal currently runs the popular salon Pascal Pour Elle and lives in a beautiful home in Chicago, though his journey hasn’t always been luxurious. Raised in France, Pascal has spoken openly about a tough childhood where money was scarce and love even scarcer. Despite that, he built a life filled with family, success, and style. These days, he’s a proud father and grandfather and considers his family his greatest accomplishment.

Though he didn’t leave with the final rose, Ibgui captivated audiences with his wit, warmth, and the heartfelt decision to self-eliminate after famously breaking the heart of frontrunner Joan Vassos. His shocking exit, right after hometown dates, was one of the most talked-about moments of the season, and even earned him the nickname “The One Who Got Away.”

Still, Pascal is very much a romantic at heart. As ABC put it, “Pascal is French, so being romantic is in his blood,” and he’s made it clear he’s still searching for a woman who’s passionate, full of life, and intelligent. His fun facts on the show were exactly what fans hoped for: he loves theater, concerts, going out to eat, and jokes that he “makes great reservations.”

Back home in Chicago, he continues to mentor rising stylists and navigate the flood of DMs and Trader Joe’s encounters from admirers who saw something rare on screen: a man who knows exactly who he is and what he wants.

In this candid interview, Pascal Ibgui opens up about his journey from salon chair to reality TV, the kind of love he’s looking for now, and why he believes there’s still magic waiting—no matter your age.

Pascal, let’s start at the beginning. Tell us how you ended up in Chicago.

Sure! I was born in Casablanca, Morocco. After Morocco gained independence, my family moved to Paris. I was raised in an Orthodox Jewish household—we were a big family: five brothers, two sisters, and my parents. As you can imagine, things weren’t always easy growing up. I attended a trade school instead of college and studied cosmetology.

From 13 to 16, I was in school, then I worked in salons—sweeping, shampooing, learning the ropes. At 18, I completed my mandatory military service in France. After that, I got a chance to work at Fashion Week, doing hair backstage for designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel. Occasionally, I even did some modeling when others didn’t show up. But I wasn’t making much money and realized I needed a change. In 1980, I got the opportunity to move to Chicago, and I took it. That’s how I got here.

Most people know you now from The Golden Bachelorette. How did that happen?

Funny story. I had never even watched the show. Last January, I was on vacation in Mexico with my kids. My daughters kept asking me odd questions—what I want in a partner, whether I’d ever date again. Turns out, they were secretly signing me up! Later, my daughter called to say the show was interested in me.

I was like, “What is The Golden Bachelorette?” I watched a few episodes and said, okay, this could be fun. But I made it clear: I wanted to know who the Bachelorette was before committing. A couple of weeks later, they told me it was Joan Vassos, and I said yes. That’s how it started.

Was there a moment you almost said no?

Not really. My family, friends, and my team at work—they all supported the idea. I’ve semi-retired, I don’t work behind the chair much anymore, and I thought, why not? It felt like a fun opportunity. I went in with an open mind.

You became known for self-eliminating from the show. Why?

I didn’t feel a connection with Joan. I’m looking for my best friend—someone who’s confident, secure, independent, well-traveled, stylish, and sophisticated. I’ve been around women all my life in the beauty industry. I need someone who understands that. Looks matter, but so does intellect and personality. I want the full package.

Did being on the show teach you anything new about yourself?

It taught me how to be more vulnerable. I’ve always known who I am, but on the show, I opened up more. We had deep conversations about past relationships, grief, and what we want now. Spending time with other men who’ve lived full lives made me reflect more on mine.

Did the show feel scripted at all?

Not at all. There’s no script. The producers ask questions, but your words are your own. Of course, the editing is out of your control.

What was the first thing you did once the cameras stopped rolling?

Honestly? Sleep. We were mic’d from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. We’re not 20-year-olds—we were exhausted. When filming wrapped for the day, we went straight to bed.

Did you make any lasting friendships?

Definitely. I’m still close with Mark, CK, Dan, Greg, Jordan, Michael… We text, share updates. It’s tough since we’re scattered across the country, but the bond is real.

How did being on the show change how people see you, especially at your salon?

It was wild. I had no idea how many people watched. Everywhere I went—Trader Joe’s, restaurants—someone would recognize me. I’ve gotten tons of messages online. Most are kind—”You were my favorite”—some not so much. But I always say, even if they’re talking badly about you, they’re still talking about you. That’s publicity.

Do you think love has an expiration date?

Not at all. Love can happen at any age, but it has to happen organically. I’ve been in love a few times. Timing, life circumstances, and people change. It’s not always easy, but I believe it can still happen.

What advice would you give to someone in their 50s or 60s who thinks love has passed them by?

Be realistic—our dating pool shrinks with age. Focus on being happy, pursue your passions, join clubs where you’ll meet people with shared interests. I’ve met people through photography groups, for example. I don’t believe in dating apps—they’re mostly fake. But when you stop chasing and start living fully, things fall into place.

And finally, what’s next for you?

I’m focused on my Med Spa business. My son is graduating from college, which I’m proud of. I plan to travel, see my family in Europe, and ski some more. I’ll keep living fully. If love comes along, wonderful. If not, that’s okay too. I’m good either way.