‘Golden Bachelor’ Finale Part 1: Two Wildly Different Fantasy Suite Dates — Who Went Home Tonight?

The Golden Bachelor finale has officially begun, and the first hour of its two-part Season 2 conclusion aired on Wednesday, November 5. Mel Owens, the 66-year-old Detroit native, faced two very different Fantasy Suite dates in Antigua with finalists Peg Munson and Cindy Cullers — but no one was sent home yet.

Hosted by Jesse Palmer, the emotional episode left fans divided after Mel struggled to express his feelings to either woman. The finale ended on a dramatic cliffhanger that sets up next week’s two-hour conclusion, which will include both the proposal and the “After the Final Rose” reunion special.

Mel Owens Opens Up in Emotional ‘Golden Bachelor’ Finale

The night began with Jesse Palmer reminding Mel Owens that he had yet to tell either finalist how he truly felt. Mel admitted he was hesitant to say “I love you” too soon, noting, “You can’t use it and not mean it.” That emotional restraint became the thread running through both of his overnight dates.

Peg Munson’s Fantasy Suite date began with an adventurous dune buggy ride through Antigua’s scenic terrain. Peg teased Mel for being overly cautious behind the wheel before taking over the controls herself — a moment that showcased her fun-loving personality. Later, their beachside dinner revealed genuine affection, though both stopped short of saying the “L-word.” The date ended with a private villa stay overlooking the ocean.

Cindy Cullers’ Fantasy Suite date offered a very different vibe. The pair shared a champagne-filled boat ride before swimming with stingrays. While Cindy fearlessly dove in, Mel appeared hesitant but eventually joined her, admitting that her confidence helped him relax. During dinner, Cindy pushed for clarity about Mel’s feelings, asking if he saw a future with her. The conversation grew tense, with Mel remaining noncommittal and visibly uncomfortable.

By the end of the episode, Cindy’s emotional vulnerability clashed with Mel’s cautious approach. As she asked if there was “a will” to make their relationship work, viewers were left hanging before next week’s conclusion.

The Cliffhanger Sets Up Next Week’s Explosive Conclusion

No elimination took place in this first half of the Golden Bachelor finale, but the tension between Cindy and Mel suggested a looming heartbreak. The teaser for next week’s episode confirmed that both women will meet Mel’s sons, Lucas and Andre, in Antigua before the final decision is made.

While early episodes positioned Cindy as the favorite, Peg’s calm, grounded connection with Mel seems to be winning over viewers — and possibly Mel himself. The chemistry between Peg and Mel felt natural, playful, and emotionally aligned, making her a strong contender for the final rose.

Next week’s extended finale will air from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC, followed by streaming on Hulu. Fans can expect emotional confrontations, heartfelt speeches, and possibly a new beginning for one lucky woman — or even a setup for the next “Golden Bachelorette.”

The Golden Bachelor finale continues next week, promising a tearful proposal and an unmissable reunion special that will finally reveal whether Mel follows his heart or his hesitation.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who went home on the Golden Bachelor finale part 1?

No one went home. The first part of the Golden Bachelor finale ended after the Fantasy Suite dates, with both finalists still in the running.

Q2: When does the Golden Bachelor finale part 2 air?

The second half airs Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and streams the next day on Hulu.

Q3: Who are the Golden Bachelor finalists?

The Season 2 finalists are Cindy Cullers, a retired biomedical engineer from Texas, and Peg Munson, a retired firefighter from Nevada.

Q4: Where was the Golden Bachelor finale filmed?

The finale took place in Antigua, featuring romantic beachside villas and luxury oceanfront dates.

Q5: Who is expected to win the Golden Bachelor finale?

While nothing is confirmed, many fans and analysts believe Peg Munson has a stronger emotional connection with Mel Owens going into the final episode.