Golden Bachelor Fans React To Mel Owens Exit & Casting Controversy

The Golden Bachelor Season 2 just hit a bump and fans are sounding off. After ABC named former NFL player Mel Owens as the new leading man, backlash followed. Now, according to Reality Steve, Owens is out. Read on to find out what happened. 

Fans Weren’t Sold On Mel

When ABC first revealed Mel Owens as the next Golden Bachelor, reactions were mixed. Some praised the network for bringing in fresh faces, but a large portion of viewers didn’t hold back. The main complaint? He wasn’t connected to any previous seasons on ABC. Notably, he wasn’t on The Golden Bachelorette.

Comments flooded in questioning the casting choice. One fan asked, “Why would you cast a rando with all the silver foxes from last season?” Another chimed in, “They should have picked a fan favorite from Joan’s season.”

The disappointment was widespread. Many fans felt there wasn’t a compelling backstory, unlike Gerry Turner’s journey as a widower looking for love.

The Exit Confirmed

Two months after the drama, Reality Steve dropped a bombshell on Instagram:

(EXCLUSIVE): I’m hearing that Mel Owens is OUT as the Golden Bachelor due to recent negative publicity surrounding his June 4th podcast appearance. Expect an announcement soon incl who is going to replace him. Haven’t heard a name yet on who that is. Will update if/when I hear.

8:21 AM · 7/2/25

Nobody seemed to be crying about the news. In fact, the commenters seemed happy about it. Remember, Steve is seldom wrong, and if he says Mel Owens is out then it’s probably true. 

Reactions From Fans

One fans wrote in the comments, “Thank goodness! I was definitely not going to be watching.”

Another ABC viewer said, “I don’t understand why they chose him to begin with. Sure he’s a handsome older man but what’s the story that will draw us in? That’s why we connected to Gerry and Joan- the widower/widow story is compelling and we genuinely root for them to find love.”

Here’s another opinion: “He should be. If he is not interested in Golden women, we don’t want him. They deserve better.”

If you don’t know, Mel Owens talked about how he wasn’t interested in women over sixty and seemed ageist. 

What Comes Next?

ABC hasn’t issued an official update, but fans are hopeful that the next choice will reflect the spirit of the first season. They hope for someone relatable, genuine, and already connected to the audience. 

Whether the new lead is pulled from Joan’s season or elsewhere, fans clearly want heart over hype. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below and come back here often for all your Golden Bachelor news and updates.