Before Mel Owens took the spotlight as the Golden Bachelor, two important people were already rooting for his happily-ever-after — and they’ve been by his side every step of the way.
When The Golden Bachelor introduced viewers to Mel Owens, fans quickly learned that family is at the center of his story. The 66-year-old divorcee shares two sons — Lucas, 20, and Andre, 18 — from his marriage to Fabiana Pimentel, and both young men have been cheering on their dad’s televised journey to find love.
A Father-Son Bond on Display
Ahead of the Golden Bachelor premiere, the show’s Instagram account shared a promotional video featuring Owens and his sons. Lucas and Andre spoke candidly about their father’s leap of faith, with Lucas remarking, “I thought it was a good opportunity for you to put yourself out there.” Andre added, “We hope you find someone you truly love.”
Lucas also delivered the line that perfectly captured the show’s premise: “You’re never too old to fall in love.” Both sons praised Owens’ steady presence in their lives — from showing up for their games to cooking meals. As Lucas put it, “I think you’re loving, caring,” while Andre summed it up simply: “Just showing love for us.”
Owens returned the sentiment in the clip, saying, “There’s nothing like it when you have kids. It’s a whole new meaning to love. Watching you guys play, coaching you, it’s been a joy. Still is.”
Andre Pushed Him Toward the Bachelor Role
At the ABC/Hulu Get Real event earlier this summer, Owens revealed that Andre actually planted the idea of being on the show. While they were watching a season of The Bachelor, Andre teased his dad: “Yeah dad, you should be the Bachelor.” When the network later announced The Golden Bachelor, Andre doubled down: “But you should be the real one though.”
Following in Their Grandfather’s Footsteps
Sports run deep in the Owens family. Lucas and Andre inherited athletic drive from their grandfather, Walt Owens, a Negro Leagues Hall of Famer. According to MaxPreps.com, Lucas played both varsity baseball and football in high school, while Andre focused on baseball.
Owens told USA Today how much he values their time together: “They’ve been living primarily with me, and I cherish that great father-son relationship. Every morning I get to be with them before they go to school.”
Helping Their Dad Go Digital
Like many dads, Owens admits he wasn’t exactly fluent in social media before stepping into the Bachelor spotlight. That’s where his sons came in. “They got me on TikTok, and then on Instagram. I didn’t know how to do all of those things,” Owens said. “My boys were helping me. Two months ago, I had four followers. I think I have more than four now.”
The Golden Bachelor season 2 airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and streams the next day on Hulu.
