The Golden Bachelor 2's Most Controversial Moment Might Already Be Here (Thanks to Mel Owens)

The backlash was swift, with viewers calling for Mel's recasting before The Golden Bachelor 2's summer production schedule, arguing his comments alienate the show’s core audience. The series thrives on authentic connections among seniors, as seen with Gerry Turner’s season. Mel's remarks risk alienating fans who cherished the show’s portrayal of older singles finding love, potentially risking a PR nightmare for ABC.

"If They're 60 Or Over, I'm Cutting Them"

Mel recently appeared on the MGoBlue Podcasts with Jon Jansen, where The Golden Bachelor season 2 lead said he told producers he was only open to dating women between 45 and 60 years old. “If they’re 60 or over, I’m cutting them.” These comments have sparked backlash among fans who are outraged by Mel's ageism.

 

The good news is that the show's producers didn't accept Mel's age limitations. "This is not The Silver Bachelor," he alleges they told him. "This is The Golden Bachelor.” However, he also says they promised him the women would be attractive. “But they’re going to be hot. Don’t worry about it, don’t worry about it.”

He Was Married To A Much Younger Woman

The Golden Bachelor's preference for younger women should come as no surprise to anyone. Mel is a divorced single dad who was married to a woman who was 20 years his junior. Mel met Fabiana Pimentel when she was in her 20s, and he was in his 40s. They were married for 25 years and had two children together before they divorced.

Mel Risks Alienating The Show's Fanbase

It's Hard To See How He Can Redeem Himself

Mel's stance undermines the core premise of The Golden Bachelor, which celebrates love among seniors. By excluding women his own age, Mel risks alienating the show’s audience. He's defeating the entire purpose of the unscripted series, which is to bring together senior singles. His ageist comments contradict the show’s mission and may be a bad sign for the season.