The Golden Bachelor has officially been renewed for Season 2. Gerry Turner was the first Golden Bachelor with his show airing in 2023, and now the new leading man has been announced: Mel Owens.

But who is Owens? Owens is 66 years old and from Detroit but has been living in Orange County, California, since retiring, per Deadline. He is a father to two sons and a former NFL player for the Los Angeles Rams, having been drafted in 1981. His career ended in 1991 due to an injury, which changed his career trajectory, and he pursued a degree in law from the University of Michigan. According to Variety, he “specializes in workers’ compensation, sports law, sports injuries, and disability benefits.”

Bachelor Nation Fans React To Mel Owens Landing The Role Of Golden Bachelor

The news of Owens’ casting was posted on the official Golden Bachelor Instagram page and the Bachelor Nation Instagram. On the latter, the news was announced with three photos of him looking incredibly dapper in a T-shirt and blazer combination. “Getting ready to find love like… Meet Mel Owens, your new #GoldenBachelor,” the caption reads.

Judging from the comment section of the post, the news of Owens joining Golden Bachelor was met with great excitement. “Mel, you’re the best! I’m so happy for you!!” a reaction states. “Can’t wait to get to meet you!” another fan shared. There have also been remarks about his appearance, with some fans referring to Owens as “handsome.” However, some people were hopeful that it would be a man from The Golden Bachelorette‘s season, with Joan Vassos.

“Wish it was one of the guys from the show,” a comment reads. “Charles or no one,” another fan reacted, referring to Charles Ling, who competed for Vassos’ affection. There have also been comments about the lack of diversity, with some people expressing disappointment.

Why Was Mel Owens Cast As The Golden Bachelor?

Although there are fans of the unscripted series who were hopeful that one of the men from Vassos’ Golden Bachelorette season would be taking the lead, Owens is both a good-looking and an interesting individual.

“Now, after several years as a devoted dad, Owens is ready to rediscover a love rooted in the simple joys of companionship — sharing life’s everyday moments, making plans for the future and growing stronger together as a couple,” his ABC bio reads. “As the Golden Bachelor, he’s eager to meet someone who shares this vision and finally find that perfect teammate he’s been waiting for in his golden years.”

More information on the cast and the premiere date of the show has not yet been revealed, but fans will be eagerly awaiting the announcement. Gerry Turner’s season saw him pick Theresa Nist, whom he married in January 2024. The couple has since parted ways.

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