Mel Owens is the new “Golden Bachelor” lead, and his season has been greatly anticipated and also controversial. We will learn a lot more about him when the season airs, but several aspects of his life are interesting, including his family and his feelings about being a father. These are five fast facts you need to know.
1. He Is a Father to Two Sons
Owens is a father to two adult sons, Lucas, 20, and Andre, 18. “They’ve been living primarily with me, and I cherish that great father-son relationship,” Owens told USA Today in an interview published on September 24, ahead of the season premiere. “Every morning I get to be with them before they go to school.”
His ABC bio shares more about his approach to fatherhood. “While life took an unexpected turn with the passing of his father and the end of his marriage, Owens channeled his energy into being the best father he could be, focusing on raising his sons and coaching their extracurricular sports teams,” the bio reads. He is also described as a “devoted dad.”
2. His Sons Support His ‘Golden Bachelor’ Journey
Owens is lucky to have the support of his sons on his journey to find love through “The Golden Bachelor.” They have also helped him with social media. “They got me on TikTok, and then on Instagram. I didn’t know how to do all of those things,” Owens told USA Today. “My boys were helping me. Two months ago, I had four followers. I think I have more than four now.”
3. Mel Owens Was Married Before
Owens’ ABC bio reveals that he was previously married to his “first love,” with whom he shares two sons. The woman he was previously married to has been revealed as Fabiana Pimental. The former couple was married for 18 years.
The pair married in 2002 and divorced in 2020. Although their divorce was finalized in 2024, USA Today reports. Owens reflected on their time together positively. “It was a long marriage, and it just didn’t work out,” he told USA Today. “I still wish her well. And I love being married.”
4. His Sons Were His Priority
Owens is a retired NFL athlete and now a sports injury lawyer. He discussed why he had not dated in an interview with Entertainment Weekly on September 5. “I was taking care of my boys,” he said. “They needed all my attention, and I was working (as a lawyer). I just didn’t have time (to date).”
His sons are also athletes and their father’s pride and joy. “There’s nothing like it when you have kids,” Owens said in a promotional video posted on the “The Golden Bachelor” Instagram account. “There’s a whole new meaning to love. Watching you guys play, coaching you, it’s been a joy. It still is.”
5. Mel Owens Is From a Close Family
Owens’ ABC bio reveals information about how he was brought up. “Born and raised in a close-knit Midwestern family in Detroit, Owens’ athleticism shone through from an early age,” the bio reads. His father, Walter Owens, played professional baseball for the Detroit Stars, USA Today reports.
I don’t think Mel and Peg will stay together. I think Debbie was his forever and he definitely lost out on a wonderful, smart and beautiful lady! I hope she will find her forever! We’re rooting for you!