Mel Owens on The Golden Bachelor 2025: NFL past, heartbreak, and love at 66

Mel Owens has made waves before, first as an NFL linebacker and now as the star of Season 2 of The Golden Bachelor. After a well-publicized personal journey filled with both successes and problems, he is seeking companionship as he embarks on a new chapter at the age of 66. His choice to cast a man who has lived in the spotlight but now desires a second chance at love later in life lends a serious element to the series.

Following a stellar collegiate career at Michigan, Owens played linebacker for the Los Angeles Rams for nine seasons. He left football to pursue a career in law, co-founding a firm that specialized in injury and disability lawsuits. After his 25-year marriage to Fabiana Pimentel ended and their divorce was finalized in December 2024, his personal life gained notice. His story has also revolved around his kids and his experiences as a father.

However, Owens's contentious comments before the commencement of The Golden Bachelor have arguably been the most talked-about element leading up to the show. He stated on a podcast that he would "cut" any competitors who were older than 60 and that he preferred to date women between the ages of 45 and 60.

His remarks regarding fitness and "avoid[ing] artificial hips and wigs" were also perceived by many as ageist and disrespectful. Following criticism, Owens addressed the women and begged for their trust on the first night of filming.

From the Gridiron to the heart of reality TV - Mel Owens on The Golden Bachelor

Owens's transformation from NFL hero to romantic reality star is daring, but it stems from a sincere need for human connection. On The Golden Bachelor, he is seeking a partner to accompany him on his next journey in life, not simply a season highlight.

Legacy & life before love

Owens created a life that is as complex as it is public before donning the rose. After being selected ninth overall, he spent nine seasons as a linebacker for the Rams. His career history was solidified when he turned to law and assisted clients with disability and injury cases.

Lucas and Andre are his two sons from his more than 20-year marriage to Fabiana Pimentel. Owens frequently presented the divorce, formalized in late 2024, as a watershed moment. In interviews, he attributed his decision to participate in The Golden Bachelor to encouragement from his younger son, Andre.

Because he bears experience, expectations, regrets, and hope in equal measure, his personal history creates a complex backdrop for his search for a companion.

Controversy, apology, & redemption curve

Owens received harsh criticism for his comments about cutting women over 60 and favoring physical "fitness" characteristics. Many said it went against the tone of a show that emphasizes adult love. Later, he emphasized that his remarks were awkward attempts to convey his preferences and that he was not fully aware of the casting age range.

On the night of the premiere, he spoke to the cast, offered a direct apology, and requested the women's trust. He took it as part of the process when the contestants sometimes made fun of him on group dates in the early episodes.

Much of the redemption storyline hinges on Owens's development under scrutiny, despite the producers' declarations that they will not be afraid to address this subject on screen.

Trending

Head to ABC to watch The Golden Bachelor.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback