Mel Owens is back on TV with The Golden Bachelor, looking for love again after his divorce. In the premiere, he opened up a bit about his personal life, including his split from his ex-wife Fabiana Pimentel, which wrapped up in December 2024 after five years of proceedings. He admitted the marriage ended because Fabiana “fell for someone else,” though the couple had previously cited irreconcilable differences. Now, Mel is trying to find a partner among 23 women on the show.
During a recent interview, Mel joked about whether his ex-wife might secretly be watching the show. He said his kids told him she wasn’t tuning in, but he laughed and added, “Everybody’s peeking. I’d be watching if I was her!” His comment hinted at the kind of curious ex behavior many people can relate to after a breakup.
Fabiana, meanwhile, has made it clear she doesn’t want to be involved with the show at all. In a statement, she said she didn’t think it was a good idea and didn’t want her name associated with it.
The premiere also touched on Mel’s past controversial comments about his dating preferences. He had mentioned wanting women between 45 and 60, and made remarks about fitness and cosmetic surgery that did not sit well with the contestants. He apologized on the show, and the women agreed to give him a fair chance.
Mel’s mix of humor, honesty about his past, and willingness to put himself out there makes the season already interesting. His playful jab about Fabiana possibly watching shows he’s ready to be open about his life while still keeping things lighthearted.