Golden Bachelor Mel Owens Discusses Controversy and Love Journey
Mel Owens, the 66-year-old star of ABC’s reality series The Golden Bachelor, recently addressed the controversy surrounding his comments on age preferences for contestants. During a podcast appearance over the summer, Owens sparked outrage when he stated that he wanted women aged between 45 and 60, specifically excluding those over 60 and those with “artificial hips” or “wigs.” His remarks drew backlash from fans of the franchise, some of whom called for his removal from the show.
In an interview with Us Weekly, Owens expressed surprise at the reaction but remained composed. “I’m not really on social media, so I didn’t even know. People were sending me screenshots and saying, ‘Oh, my God, are you still there?’ And I go, ‘I am,’ because I didn’t hear anything to the contrary,” he explained regarding rumors of his potential replacement.
Despite the uproar, ABC stood by Owens. His charming demeanor and background as a former NFL player likely contributed to the decision to keep him. Transitioning from a football career to law school, Owens raised two sons, Lucas, 20, and Andre, 18, and has experienced a unique journey in both love and life.
Owens clarified that he is not following the traditional Bachelor format. He rejected the notion of falling in love with multiple contestants, stating, “Conflict is good for the show but not good for the heart.” He emphasized that engagement is not guaranteed simply because the format suggests it. “Just because I want to get engaged doesn’t mean they want to get engaged,” he remarked.
Embracing Vulnerability
As the show progressed, Owens made a conscious effort to connect with the women, addressing the earlier controversy directly. “It was my doing to get out of it or explain myself and ask the women, ‘Hey, give me another chance, I’m sorry,’” he said. The women, many of whom were initially concerned about his comments, reported feeling relieved after he sincerely apologized.
During his time on the show, Owens faced emotional challenges as he listened to the contestants share their personal stories. He noted, “You understand how [their trauma or loss] shaped them. It matters.” These shared experiences have helped him connect deeply with the contestants, allowing him to empathize with their journeys.
Owens has also dealt with personal hardships, including the death of his father and his divorce from his ex-wife, Fabiana Owens, who moved on with someone else. Reflecting on this, he stated, “If you want to find somebody else in a different phase of your life, it hurts, but I can’t get in the way of your happiness.”
Navigating Relationships
As the season nears its conclusion, Owens finds himself with three remaining contestants: Debbie Siebers, 65, a fitness professional; Cindy Cullers, 60, a retired biomedical engineer; and Peg Munson, 62, a retired firefighter. Each woman has brought unique qualities to the show that have captured Owens’ attention.
He described Siebers as “gentle, smart, beautiful,” while noting that Cullers is “passionate, compassionate, and brilliant.” Munson, who has shared stories of past infidelity, has intrigued Owens with her energy and depth.
Owens has approached the dating process with a thoughtful mindset, even creating a pros and cons list to help make his decision. He explained that writing down his thoughts allowed him to reflect more meaningfully on his connections. “It was tough,” he admitted, “and I’m just trying to figure out who is going to be the best fit for me, who I would enjoy.”
As viewers await the season finale, Owens hints at an emotional conclusion that may defy expectations. “It’s really emotional. And you’re a little nervous, but it’s so brilliant. … It’s so good, you won’t believe it,” he teased, promising an ending that could surprise even the most seasoned fans of the franchise.
With his unique approach to love and relationships, Mel Owens is redefining the narrative of reality dating, challenging both himself and the contestants to embrace vulnerability on this unexpected journey.
