Golden Bachelor Star Faces Mounting Pressure Over $980,000 Divorce Settlement

Former NFL star and Golden Bachelor contestant Mel Owens is under significant financial and legal pressure. Court documents confirm he has failed to pay a $980,000 divorce settlement to his ex-wife, Fabiana Pimentel. The payment was legally due on February 28, 2025, and is now severely overdue. Daily interest penalties are rapidly increasing the total debt.

The situation highlights a protracted legal battle following their 22-year marriage. Pimentel waived spousal support and property claims to secure the single payment. According to Reuters, the court has detailed the mounting financial consequences for the retired athlete.

Details of the Overdue Divorce Payment

Mel Owens and Fabiana Pimentel finalized their divorce in December 2024. Their separation involved a nearly five-year legal process. The court ordered a $980,000 equalization payment to Pimentel.

She agreed to forgo spousal support and claims to their shared home. This agreement was made in exchange for the lump sum. The February 28 deadline has now passed without full payment.

Reports indicate only approximately $40,000 has been paid. This represents just four percent of the total court-ordered amount. The outstanding balance continues to accrue substantial interest.

Financial and Legal Consequences Intensify

The financial penalties are compounding daily. Interest on the unpaid settlement is accruing at a rate of $257.53 every day. This has added a significant sum to the original debt since the deadline passed.

Pimentel is legally entitled to pursue enforcement actions. These could include wage garnishment or asset seizure. The Associated Press notes that such measures are common in cases of delinquent court-ordered payments.

The case draws more attention due to Owens’ recent television appearance. His engagement on *The Golden Bachelor* has placed him in the public eye. This scrutiny amplifies the consequences of his financial obligations.

The unresolved settlement casts a long shadow over the former star’s new chapter. With daily interest inflating the debt, legal enforcement appears increasingly imminent. The Golden Bachelor divorce settlement remains a pressing and costly unresolved matter.

Thought you’d like to know-

How much does Mel Owens owe in his divorce?

He was ordered to pay $980,000 as an equalization payment. The deadline was February 28, 2025. Only a fraction of this total has been paid so far.

What happens if he doesn’t pay the settlement?

His ex-wife can pursue legal enforcement through the courts. This may include garnishing wages or seizing assets. Daily interest charges will also continue to accumulate on the debt.

Was Mel Owens on The Golden Bachelor?

Yes, he was a contestant on the second season of the reality show. He got engaged to fellow contestant Peg Munson during the finale. His appearance brought increased public attention to his personal finances.

How long were Mel and Fabiana married?

They were married for approximately 22 years. Their marriage began in May 2002 and ended with their divorce finalization in December 2024.

Why is the payment so high?

The sum was determined as an equalization payment to settle their marital assets. Fabiana Pimentel also waived her rights to spousal support and property claims in exchange for this lump sum.