New “Golden Bachelor” Candidate Mel Owens Reveals He Prefers Women Aged 45 to 60

Mel Owens, the newest star of the upcoming “Golden Bachelor” series, made it clear he is not interested in dating women over 60. During an appearance on the “In the Trenches” podcast, the 66-year-old expressed his preferences bluntly, stating, “If they’re 60 or over, I’m cutting them.” He added that he specified to producers he only wanted women between 45 and 60 years old, emphasizing his honesty in the casting process.

Owens further explained, “This is not ‘The Silver Bachelor,’ this is ‘The Golden Bachelor.’ They’ve got to be fit, because I stay in shape and work out.” He also requested that hopeful contestants avoid artificial enhancements like wigs and hips, preferring a natural look reflective of his own fitness regime.

His candid remarks drew criticism online for their ageist and superficial tone. Critics quickly responded, with comments like, “Starting to explain why he’s 66 and single,” and others expressing disappointment over his attitude. Owens’s comments have been widely discussed on social media, where many fans of the franchise voiced their disapproval.

The series, a spin-off of the “Bachelor” franchise, returns this fall with its second season. The first season starred Gerry Turner, who at age 72, dated among women aged 60 and older. Turner proposed to Theresa Nist, 71, though they separated after three months of marriage.

Despite the backlash, Owens remains firm in his stance about the show’s casting, emphasizing that he wants participants to be fit and natural, aligning with his personal standards and preferences.