The second season of ABC’s The Golden Bachelor hasn’t even aired, but its new leading man, Mel Owens, is already at the center of a national controversy. The 66-year-old former NFL linebacker and attorney is making headlines for his candid search for love—and for a series of ageist remarks that have Bachelor Nation buzzing.
A Rocky Start: Ageist Remarks Spark Outrage
Owens, who was announced as the new Golden Bachelor in April, quickly found himself in hot water after a University of Michigan football podcast interview in June. During the conversation, Owens stated he would eliminate any contestant over the age of 60, a comment that struck a nerve with fans and contestants alike—especially since the show’s entire premise is celebrating romance among seniors.
After a wave of backlash, Owens issued multiple apologies, calling his remarks “out of line” and a “blunder.” He explained that his dating frame of reference was decades old, and he hadn’t realized how hurtful his words would be. “My reference of dating was 39, 40 years old. I hadn’t dated in 26, 27 years,” Owens told
Glamour magazine. A close friend, herself 65, confronted him about the comments, prompting his public apology.
Despite the controversy, Owens is urging viewers to give him another chance:
“I encourage you to tune in and form your own opinion,” he told USA TODAY.
Who Is Mel Owens? From NFL to Reality TV
Born and raised in Detroit, Owens comes from a family with deep sports roots—his father, Walter Owens, played professional baseball in the Negro American League. Mel made his own mark as a linebacker for the Los Angeles Rams before transitioning to a successful legal career.
Owens was married to Fabiana Pimentel for 25 years, with whom he shares two sons. Their divorce, finalized in 2024, was described by Owens as “lengthy” but amicable. He’s open about missing the companionship of marriage and is seeking a partner who is “honest, charming, loving, fit, and full of life”.
Inside Season 2: A New Chapter for Senior Romance
Season 2 of
The Golden Bachelor premieres September 24, with 23 women—ranging in age from 58 to 77—competing for Owens’ heart. The cast includes a vineyard owner, a retired firefighter, and a bomb technician, all ready to prove that love stories only get better with age.
Owens describes himself as a romantic who enjoys both adventurous travel and quiet nights at home. While he admits he’s “not really a crier,” he acknowledges the emotional journey ahead:
“Crying is a natural human response. It’s cathartic. It happens, and it’s a positive thing.”Ex-Wife Issues a Warning
Adding fuel to the fire, Owens’ ex-wife, Fabiana Pimentel, has publicly warned the show’s contestants to be cautious, referencing his controversial stance on age and his approach to relationships. Her comments have only intensified the scrutiny around Owens as the season kicks off.
What This Means for The Golden Bachelor
The controversy has set the stage for a dramatic and unpredictable season. Owens’ willingness to confront his mistakes—and the public’s reaction—will likely shape the narrative both on and off screen. For ABC, the drama may be a ratings boon, but it also raises questions about ageism and authenticity in reality TV.
As the new season unfolds, all eyes will be on Mel Owens: Will he find the love he’s searching for, or will his past comments overshadow his second chance at romance?
Sources
1. Golden Bachelor Mel Owens on love, ESP and his ageist 'mistake'
2. Who Is Mel Owens? All About the New Star of “The Golden Bachelor ...
3. The Golden Bachelor 2025: Mel Owens’ inspiring journey from NFL star to love at 66
4. 'Golden Bachelor' Mel Owens Apologizes for Remarks - AARP
5. Who is Mel Owens, the Golden Bachelor 2025? Controversy, full podcast comments, wife, kids
6. 'The Golden Bachelor' Season 2 - Meet the Women | ABC Updates
7. 'Golden Bachelor' Mel Owens' ex issues warning for ladies after he ...
