Mel Owens, former Los Angeles Rams linebacker and star of ABC’s The Golden Bachelor Season 2, has gained public attention for his athletic background and recent controversial comments.
Fans are eager to learn more about his marriage, divorce, and family, particularly his relationship with his ex-wife, Fabiana Pimentel Owens.
Mel Owens, now 66, spent nine seasons with the Los Angeles Rams from 1981 to 1989, earning a reputation as a tough and dedicated linebacker.
After retiring from the NFL, he transitioned into a successful career as a lawyer.
However, his personal life took center stage when he married Fabiana Pimentel Owens, whom he described as his “first love.”
The couple tied the knot on May 17, 2003, in a 17-year union.
Fabiana, who is 19 years younger than Mel and now in her late 40s, brought her vibrant energy to their relationship.
Born in Brazil, she built an impressive career in business and marketing.
She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services from Faculdade da Cidade in Brazil and later pursued a Master’s degree in International Marketing at UCLA.
Her professional journey includes roles as a marketing team member at VARIG for four years, an assistant manager at NBO Law for nine years, and a co-founder of Dinal Touch Organizing for three years.
Since 2023, she has served as a director at Preferred Hotels & Resorts, showcasing her drive and ambition.
Together, Mel and Fabiana welcomed two sons, Lucas (born in 2005) and Andre (born in 2007).
Both boys share a passion for baseball, a sport that likely keeps them connected to their father’s athletic roots.
The family built a life together, balancing Mel’s post-NFL career and Fabiana’s professional pursuits.
Despite their shared history, Mel and Fabiana’s marriage faced challenges.
In 2020, after 17 years together, Fabiana filed for divorce, bringing their relationship to an end.
The reasons for their split remain private, as both have chosen to keep personal details out of the public eye.
Mel Owens On The Golden Bachelor
However, the divorce marked a significant turning point in Mel’s life, setting the stage for his next chapter on The Golden Bachelor.
The 19-year age difference between Mel and Fabiana was notable, and Mel’s preference for younger partners has since sparked conversation.
In a recent appearance on the MGoBlue Podcasts with Jon Jansen, Mel stirred controversy by stating he prefers to date women between 45 and 60 years old.
He told producers-:
“If they’re 60 or over, I’m cutting them. This is not The Silver Bachelor, this is The Golden Bachelor.”
Via hollywoodreporter
His comments drew backlash from fans who felt his stance was dismissive of women closer to his age, especially given the show’s focus on celebrating love in later years.
In April 2025, Mel stepped into the spotlight as the lead of The Golden Bachelor Season 2.
At 66, he brings charisma, confidence, and a bit of controversy to the ABC dating show.
The former NFL star-turned-lawyer is searching for love again, but his age-related dating preferences have raised eyebrows.
Some fans admire his honesty, while others feel that his comments undermine the show’s spirit, which celebrates finding love at any age.
Mel’s journey on The Golden Bachelor is about more than romance—it’s a chance to rediscover himself after a long career and a significant personal loss.
His openness about his preferences, while polarizing, reflects a man who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to say it.
Whether he finds a new partner remains to be seen, but his story has already sparked plenty of discussion.
Mel Navigates Reality TV Fame, While Fabiana Thrives In Both Her Career And Personal Life
As a director at Preferred Hotels & Resorts, she oversees high-end hospitality projects, drawing on her extensive experience in marketing and management.
Her journey from Brazil to the United States, coupled with her academic achievements at UCLA, highlights her resilience and determination.
Fabiana remains a dedicated mother to Lucas and Andre, supporting their baseball aspirations and maintaining a stable environment for them.
Though Fabiana and Mel are no longer together, their shared history as parents keeps them connected.
Fabiana has largely stayed out of the public eye, focusing on her career and family rather than engaging with the media attention surrounding Mel’s stint on The Bachelor.
Mel Owens’ story is one of triumphs and challenges, from his days on the football field to his current role as a reality TV star.
His marriage to Fabiana Pimentel Owens was a significant chapter, filled with love, family, and shared dreams.
Though their divorce marked the end of that chapter, both Mel and Fabiana have moved forward, each carving out their own path.
As Mel searches for love on The Golden Bachelor, fans are reminded that life, like love, is complex.
His controversial comments may spark debate, but they also reveal a man navigating the next phase of his life with honesty and a touch of humor.
Meanwhile, Fabiana continues to shine in her career, proving that life after divorce can be fulfilling and full of opportunity.
