Who Is the Golden Bachelor? Meet Mel Owens, the Star of Season 2

The Golden Bachelor for Season 2 is Mel Owens, a 66-year-old retired NFL player and attorney. He follows Gerry Turner, who made history as the first Golden Bachelor in 2023. Owens’ season premiered on September 24, 2025, on ABC, introducing viewers to a new chapter of love for people in their later years.

Owens’ selection sparked interest because of his career achievements and personal story. ABC confirmed him as the lead earlier this year, marking a new era for the franchise after Gerry Turner’s widely followed first season.

Mel Owens’ Journey From NFL Star to Golden Bachelor

Mel Owens grew up in Detroit, Michigan, and became a standout football player at the University of Michigan. In 1981, he was drafted ninth overall by the Los Angeles Rams and played as a linebacker until 1989. After retiring from professional football, Owens built a career as a lawyer in Orange County, California, focusing on sports-related injury cases.

His personal life also drew attention. Owens was married for 17 years and has two sons. According to ABC, his children encouraged him to join The Golden Bachelor to find love again after years of focusing on family and work.

The 66-year-old created headlines ahead of the season premiere after admitting on the MGoBlue podcast that his initial dating preference was for women aged 45 to 60. The comment stirred discussion about age dynamics on the show. Owens later apologized, emphasizing respect for all contestants, who range in age from 58 to 77.

What Makes Season 2 Different

The Golden Bachelor Season 2 introduces 23 women from across the United States, including Andra Mason, the twin sister of Sandra Mason from the first season. Fans expect a mix of heartwarming love stories, drama, and a focus on finding companionship later in life.

Viewers also watch closely to see how Owens’ sports background and legal career shape his approach to love and relationships. ABC producers say the show continues to highlight mature love stories but with fresh energy brought by a younger Golden Bachelor compared to Gerry Turner.

Mel Owens’ journey shows that love can be found at any stage of life. His story adds a new dimension to The Golden Bachelor, attracting both long-time fans and new viewers curious about his unique background.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is the Golden Bachelor this season?

Mel Owens, a 66-year-old retired NFL player and lawyer, is the Golden Bachelor for Season 2 in 2025.

Q2: Who was the first Golden Bachelor?

The first Golden Bachelor was Gerry Turner in 2023. He married Theresa Nist on live TV but divorced after three months.

Q3: Why is Mel Owens famous?

He played linebacker for the Los Angeles Rams from 1981 to 1989 and later became a lawyer specializing in sports injury cases.

Q4: What controversy happened before Season 2?

Owens faced criticism for saying he preferred dating women aged 45–60 but later apologized to contestants and viewers.

Q5: How old are the Season 2 contestants?

The women range from 58 to 77 years old, including Andra Mason, twin sister of a Season 1 star.