Only two days ago, on April 6, 2026, the first-ever winner of “Bachelor Mansion Takeover” was declared. After a nail-biting finale, the HGTV and ABC mash-up show crowned former “The Bachelorette” contestant Noah Erb as the lucky winner.
But while winning the show is certainly an accomplishment, Erb’s statement following his win is bittersweet. In it, he reflected on his journey on the show that happened to be during the same time his mom was going through a health battle at home. She ultimately passed away in October 2025.
‘Bachelor Mansion Takeover’ Was a Mix of Feelings for Noah Erb
On Instagram, Erb, who’s been married to his “Bachelor in Paradise” partner Abigail Heringer since 2024, reflected on his experience.
“When I was asked if I wanted to join a Bachelor/HGTV competition show, I had no idea what was in store for me those next few months,” he admitted. “I have always wanted to be involved with @hgtv and have been perfecting my craft with Abi over the last two years so it made perfect sense. Doing two things you love at the same time is almost always going to be a yes for me.”
Once he started the show, however, things took a turn when he learned his “mom’s situation was much more severe than I thought.”
“Working through my life long dream and childhood nightmare simultaneously on TV wasn’t something I knew to prepare for,” he wrote.
Most of all, Erb knew he wanted to keep his mom’s condition a secret from his fellow contestants.
“I didn’t want the others to know what I was going through because I didn’t want the sympathy or attention but it was so much weight to try to hold onto,” he said. “I was taught your work ethic and skill were more important than what you think you deserve for it so I wanted to be judged on only that.”
“Plus, my Mom said I didn’t need the pity and she would be healthy by the time I got back to celebrate but deep down I knew only one of those things were true 🥲,” he wrote.
Winning Was Still a ‘Huge Achievement’
GettyDespite the mixed feelings that went into feeling, Erb is grateful for participating, and for the win.
“Winning this show was such a huge achievement for me,” he continued in the caption. “Not just because I have a passion for what I do, but because only I know how hard it was for me to pursue that passion despite what the world was throwing at me.”
“Going home to tell my mom I won and getting to take care of her in her final days will forever be a core memory I am grateful for,” he continued.
He continued, “The truth is no matter how great, a TV show doesn’t come close to real life situations but I am so grateful for the opportunity to experience it all. I said on the show that this all seemed too bizarre for me not to think God has his hand in it, I haven’t figured out all of the pieces but I’m choosing to believe that’s still the case.”
In the comment section, friends and fellow competitors of Erb are pouring in their support. “If I had to lose to anyone I’m happy to lose to you,” wrote runner-up Tammy Ly. “Congrats buddy. Tell abi I miss her.”
