Mel Owens Draws the Line: No 60+ Dates or ‘Artificial Hips’
My coffee’s still kicking, but you better buckle up—Mel Owens just served up some eyebrow-raising rules on The Golden Bachelor! The 66-year-old former NFL star stunned audiences when he announced he’s tossing any contestant over 60 out of the running (People, July 12). If that wasn’t enough, he quipped in an exclusive chat with Entertainment Tonight that he “definitely doesn’t want any artificial hips”—yes, you read that right—because he’s not in the business of nagging after joint replacements on long walks or dance nights.
This candid cut-off protocol has sparked a wildfire of chatter online. Reddit threads and Twitter feeds lit up within hours, with both supporters applauding his honesty and critics accusing him of ageism, per US Weekly coverage. Mel insists it’s all about keeping pace with his adventurous lifestyle. “I want someone who can hike, travel, and keep up with me,” he told ET. “If she’s over 60 or can’t handle a good trek, I’ll have to pass.” Love or bust, right?
Sources confirm that ABC producers framed this blunt stance as a bold twist for the Golden Bachelor spin-off, aiming to shake up the franchise (TheWrap, July 13). And Mel is doubling down: he’s drafted a “no pain” policy that specifically mentions hip replacements—“I’m not here to troubleshoot orthopedic issues,” he joked—stirring a mix of laughter and gasps at his off-the-cuff humor.
Meanwhile, contestants like 62-year-old retired schoolteacher Linda H. posted on Instagram, “Age is just a number if love is real,” pushing back against Mel’s hard line (Instagram, July 14). Social media influencer and former contestant Diane S. shared insider tea via her YouTube channel, saying Mel’s comment has “everyone talking” and might even reshape casting calls for women in their 60s next season.
As viewers tune in for rose ceremonies and heart-to-hearts, this rulebook moment has become the unexpected highlight. Will Mel’s appetite for youth and durability hold up once real connections form? Fans are divided: some say it’s refreshing honesty, others cry foul on discrimination. Either way, the ratings are climbing, and everyone’s thirsty for more drama.
Whew! I swear, I could chat up a storm about this all day—my espresso’s begging for a break, but trust me, this is only the beginning of Mel’s wild ride on The Golden Bachelor!
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Entertainment Tonight, US Weekly, TheWrap
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
