Sun Sep 21 23:50:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Golden Bachelor Mel Owens Addresses Ageist Comment, Seeks Redemption on Reality Show**

LOS ANGELES – Former NFL linebacker Mel Owens is bracing for criticism as he steps into the spotlight as the new “Golden Bachelor.” The 66-year-old, known for his career with the Los Angeles Rams, is already facing scrutiny for a controversial comment made prior to the show’s premiere.

In June, Owens stated on a podcast that he would eliminate any contestants on the ABC dating show over 60. The statement drew immediate backlash, forcing Owens to apologize repeatedly and seek forgiveness from the 23 women vying for his heart.

“Yeah, I heard about what you said about the women. What the puck are you talking about?'” Owens recalled one contestant confronting him upon arrival. Owens estimates apologizing over 20 times in the premiere episode, both individually and to the group. “It’s good because I deserved it and I had to deal with it. I explained to them sincerely, to just give me another chance.”

Owens claims he was unaware of the contestants’ ages, insisting that he focused on their personalities and connections rather than their birthdates. “I wasn’t thinking about who these women actually were,” he stated. “When you see them, you don’t think age. I had no idea how old they were, and it didn’t matter.”

A friend alerted Owens to the problematic nature of his comment, urging him to reconcile with the situation. Despite the PR crisis, Owens denies ever considering leaving the show. Producers were understanding and stood by him, giving him a second chance.

Owens, now a sports law attorney, was encouraged by a friend to apply for the “Golden Bachelor” role. After finalizing his divorce last December, he decided to embrace the adventure and put himself out there.

“The Golden Bachelor” premieres on ABC on September 24th at 8 PM ET/PT. The two-hour episode will feature the limousine arrivals and Owens’ first group date, promising drama and a chance for him to redeem himself in the eyes of the contestants and viewers.

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