who is the golden bachelor

The Golden Bachelor is a reality dating television series on ABC featuring senior contestants. The first season's lead was Gerry Turner, a 72-year-old. The second season, which premiered on September 24, 2025, features Mel Owens, a 66-year-old former NFL linebacker and lawyer, as the Golden Bachelor. Owens is from Detroit, played for the Los Angeles Rams, and is seeking love among women aged 60 and above. He has expressed a sincere desire to find a meaningful relationship in his later years after personal life challenges. Mel Owens attracted some controversy before the show aired due to comments he made about age, for which he has apologized publicly to the contestants. He is known for his background in football and law, and he is a father of two sons. The show highlights seniors looking for companionship and love during their golden years.