Who is Mel Owens? Meet the former NFL player revealed as the leading man of ‘The Golden Bachelor’ Season 2

The Golden Bachelor franchise has found its new leading man, and this time, it’s someone who has tackled life both on the gridiron and in the courtroom. Mel Owens, a 66-year-old former NFL linebacker turned attorney, is officially set to star in the upcoming season of The Golden Bachelor, as announced by ABC and Disney during Hulu’s Get Real House event on April 22.

Mel Owens follows in the footsteps of Gerry Turner, the first-ever Golden Bachelor who captured hearts in 2023, and Joan Vassos, who made history as the first Golden Bachelorette. But Owens brings a compelling journey of his own — one shaped by triumphs, challenges, and a deep-rooted desire to find love once again.

Born and raised in Detroit, Owens came from a close-knit Midwestern family. His drive and discipline were evident early on, eventually leading him to the University of Michigan, where he became a standout athlete. His dedication paid off when he was selected as the ninth overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. For a decade, he built a solid career on the field until an injury forced him to retire in 1991.
Yet, Owens’ story didn’t end with football. He transitioned seamlessly into the legal world, earning his law degree and moving to Orange County, California, where he began advocating for clients dealing with sports-related injuries. It was there that he met his first love. The couple married and went on to raise two sons together.
However, life threw Owens a curveball. The death of his father came at the same time as the dissolution of his marriage, a period that deeply tested his resilience. Rather than dwell in disappointment, Owens channeled his energy into being the best father he could be — coaching his sons in their sports and embracing single fatherhood with pride and grace.

But now, years later, Owens is ready to take a bold step back into the realm of romance. According to ABC, he’s seeking “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.” He’s hoping to meet someone who shares that heartfelt vision and is ready to walk hand in hand into the golden years of life.
“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,” reads the press release from ABC.
From the NFL to the courtroom, and now to the world of reality television, Mel Owens has lived many chapters. This next one promises to be just as meaningful — not just for him, but for millions watching and rooting for love to bloom again in its most mature and beautiful form.
Also Read: Kylie Kelce shares the only situation where she’d actually let Jason Kelce live separately