A new Golden Bachelor is ready to kick off season two.
66-year-old Mel Owens, a former professional football player, has been announced as the new host of the ABC dating series, according to Disney Entertainment Television Publicity on April 22.
The former NFL linebacker, drafted ninth overall by the Los Angeles Rams in 1981 and playing for them for nine seasons, could have had a career in professional football. However, he understands that searching for love isn’t a sport or a game.
Originally hailing from Detroit and holding a degree from the University of Michigan, Mel carries Midwest spirit deep within him. While Disney’s press releases mention that after retiring from football, he relocated to Orange County, California for a legal career, his past as an athlete has significantly influenced his new path in law, as he now focuses on assisting individuals dealing with sports-related injuries.
In California, he not only built a significant part of his professional career but also met his first wife there, with whom he has two sons. However, as the press release mentions, Mel has faced challenges such as the passing of his father and the end of his marriage. Despite these hardships, he prioritized raising his boys and coaching their sports teams in their extracurricular activities.
With his children growing up, Mel is eagerly seeking a companion to embark on life’s journey together once more. The ideal candidate would be his “ideal partner,” someone with whom he could cherish the pleasures of life.
The reality show franchise “The Golden Bachelor” has demonstrated that it’s never too late to find love. In the first season, Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist got married shortly after their engagement on the show, but they divorced a few months later. However, Joan Vassos, who was a contestant in Gerry’s season, and Chock Chapple have been engaged for over a year now.
In my perspective, though my partner and I are yet to sort out our future living setup before we officially become married, I am delighted to share that our love remains as vibrant as ever – a beacon of hope for those in their golden years, much like the resilient Mel.
Joan shared with TopMob News in February that the saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder” seems quite accurate for her. She expressed her delight in missing him and feeling this strong affection, which brings her great happiness whenever they are together. It’s not just about seeing him every day; it’s about the anticipation and joy she experiences when they meet again.
Currently, the roses are with Mel right now. Continue reading to discover how various Bachelor Nation couples from previous seasons are faring.
Status: Engaged
On his very first night at the Bachelor mansion, Grant Ellis might have encountered 25 possible romantic prospects, but it was Juliana Pasquarosa who ultimately received his final rose. As they anticipate their upcoming marriage, the soon-to-be bride has shared her top priority for their wedding day.
Regardless of its location or appearance, the essential aspect is that it’s filled with love and everyone from our family is present,” she shared with TopMob News in March 2025. “Whatever activity we engage in, we’ll make sure it’s enjoyable.
Status: Engaged
After featuring on the inaugural season of “The Golden Bachelor” and prematurely leaving Gerry Turner’s season, Joan Vassos later became the star of the initial season of “The Golden Bachelorette”. It was during this show that she met and got engaged to contestant Chock Chapple.
In the finale of “The Golden Bachelorette” in November 2024, Joan expressed, “We are evidence that there is always hope, even at our age.” Chock then proposed to her in the breathtaking location of Bora Bora. “I’ve waited for this moment in this beautiful setting to tell you that I love you,” he said, “and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I look forward to waking up next to you each morning and kissing you goodnight every night.
Status: Split
As a devoted fan, I was overjoyed when it seemed like former Bachelor contestant Jenn Tran had found her perfect match in Devin Strader during The Bachelorette season 21 finale. However, during After the Final Rose in September, Jenn, at 26 years old, disclosed that Devin, aged 28, abruptly distanced himself from her the moment the cameras stopped rolling.
During the September 3rd episode, Jenn explained to host Jesse Palmer that he had declared passionate feelings of love one day, only to be completely indifferent the next. She added that all the affectionate gestures and heartfelt promises he had made to her seemed to disappear suddenly, leaving no trace of the love he had claimed to feel for her.
The events became more intriguing as Devin posted a 13-minute video on Instagram, detailing his perspective and admitting fault (taking accountability), while also explaining the reasons behind ending their conversation over a 15-minute telephone call.
Instead of asserting that he ended their relationship over the phone in August, he stated that Jenn asked him about his issues and wanted him to tell her face-to-face, which he was trying to do.
He admitted that he wasn’t sure about any other options, but since he wanted to discuss it face-to-face, he felt like she made him reveal the information.
Ever since then, Jenn gracefully moved towards Dancing With the Stars, and there are whispers that she might have found a special place in her partner Sasha Farber’s heart. These rumors of a blossoming relationship between them started after their elimination on October 29th.
Status: Split
In November 2022, Greg Grippo, who was among Katie Thurston’s suitors on The Bachelorette the previous year, appeared alongside Victoria Fuller on the season finale of Bachelor in Paradise. There, they publicly declared that they were in a relationship. However, in April 2024, he disclosed that their relationship had ended.
Before Victoria Fuller and Greg Grippo made their relationship official during the final episode of Bachelor in Paradise’s eighth season, Victoria Fuller and her fellow cast member Johnnie DePhillipo had broken off their engagement.
Status: Divorced
Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist became engaged in November 2023, during the final episode of the first season of “Golden Bachelor”, and they officially got married in a televised wedding ceremony in January 2024.
However, three months after their nuptials, the couple announced that they were breaking up.
Gerry stated during their interview on Good Morning America with Theresa in April 2024, ‘Theresa and I have shared many deep conversations, and after careful examination of our circumstances, particularly regarding our living arrangements, we’ve reached a common decision. It appears that it’s now appropriate for us to end our marriage.’
They reached a divorce settlement in June 2024, according to court records reviewed by TopMob News.
In April 2025, Gerry disclosed on the “Bachelor Happy Hour” podcast that he had a new girlfriend and things were going smoothly.
Relationship Status: Betrothed
After dating 32 potential partners, tennis player Joey Graziadei finally found his ideal partner in project manager Kelsey Anderson. “I can’t wait another second to express my love for you,” Joey said to his chosen one during the finale of March 2024. “There’s something about you that captivates me. Your energy is contagious and it makes me happy. It’s a feeling I’ve never experienced before.”
Envisioning a lifetime together with Kelsey, he added, “I thought I knew what a beautiful life looked like, but I didn’t truly comprehend how breathtaking it could be until I met you.
Despite not initially connecting until halfway through season nine of “Bachelor in Paradise”, underwater welder John Henry Spurlock and nurse Kat Izzo decided to take a chance on each other. During the show, John presented Kat with an Ascher cut Neil Lane diamond, expressing his feelings by saying, “I’m going to try something a little different today. My heart tells me that you are amazing, you are everything I’ve been searching for.”
However, a few days after the season finale, they announced their separation. In a joint Instagram post, they explained, “Although our lives are heading in separate directions due to differences in career goals, we appreciate the love and support we have received from our families, friends, and Bachelor Nation.
As a dedicated follower, I’m recounting the recent events from ‘Paradise.’ Despite my jitters about an engagement, the stunning Eliza Isichei, one of Clayton Echard’s former flames, wholeheartedly accepted Aaron Bryant’s oceanfront proposal. Touched by his thoughtful gesture of consulting her mom for approval, she couldn’t help but exclaim, “I had no idea what was going to slip out next!”
The finale concluded with a mention of Eliza and Charity’s past, hinting at some challenges they faced following their return from Mexico. A few days later, they announced their official separation.
“Navigating these complex feelings,” he penned on Instagram in December 2023. “We’re parting ways with nothing but optimism and a deep respect for each other.
Status: Split
Nurse Kylee Russell reluctantly agreed to Aven Jones’ proposal on Bachelor in Paradise, despite his earlier unwillingness to propose during his time on The Bachelorette. However, she decided it was time to take a chance and make their relationship work.
Despite having her engagement dress ready, Kylee chose to prioritize following her heart, stating that love involves taking risks.
Two days after the show’s finale in December 2023, she disclosed on Instagram Stories that their relationship had ended due to Aven’s infidelity. Later, Aven apologized to Kylee for his mistakes and the pain he caused her during their relationship.
Charity Lawson playfully revealed her excitement to TopMob News about the conclusion of their season, an event that surpasses her initial enthusiasm. In a heartfelt moment reminiscent of a fairy tale, integrative medicine expert Dotun Olubeko declared his affection for Charity as “perfect,” asking her to elevate their love story by becoming his wife. Although they have not yet set a wedding date, the couple is contemplating tying the knot in 2025 or 2026. Before embarking on their marital journey, however, Charity will grace the Dancing With the Stars ballroom as a contestant. Overjoyed by this opportunity, Dotun expressed his support to Charity on The Bachelorette: After the Final Rose, stating, “Baby, I’m thrilled! You love to dance and have fun, and we’ve talked about how incredible this chance would be. And guess what? You’re going to be on Dancing With the Stars! Let’s do this!
Status: Set to Marry
Zach Shallcross is all set for his blissful future. Despite a few bumps along the way in the Fantasy Suite, Zach Shallcross ended season 27 in March 2023 on one knee. He confessed to travel nurse Kaity Biggar, “I am deeply in love with you. You are my universe. The love I have for you surpasses anything I could have ever imagined.”
In July 2023, the Texas-based couple took a significant step forward in their relationship, as Kaity posted on Instagram, “Now officially living together.” They’re currently organizing their October 2025 wedding vows.
As a passionate fan, I can’t help but reflect on the heartbreaking news about my beloved couple, Danielle Maltby and Michael Allio. Despite their promising journey on Bachelor Nation, they parted ways after Danielle moved from Nashville to Ohio to be with Michael. It’s disheartening to learn that even after a year, their relationship didn’t work out as planned. Michael shared his feelings on Jason Tartick’s podcast in September 2023, expressing the immense pain of a relationship ending, especially when love was there but compatibility seemed to falter. He mourned not just the loss of Danielle and their friendship, but also the future they had once imagined together.
Brandon Jones declared his eternal love for Serene Russell during their proposal on season seven of ‘Paradise’. However, their relationship didn’t last long. Just five months after their engagement was shown, they announced their separation in a joint Instagram post in May 2023. They had been struggling privately, and the public eye made it even more challenging. Both are experiencing deep pain and asked for no negativity in return.
Status: Separation
Rachel’s relationship with general contractor Tino Franco hit a roadblock as he was seen kissing another woman during their 2022 season broadcast. In an interview on The Viall Files, he admitted, “I do not defend my actions at all. It was wrong and unfair to Rachel. I regret it deeply and it continues to trouble me every day. I am ashamed of what I did and if I could go back and change it a million times over, I would.
The situation: Divorced
Indeed, it was quite an adventure. Susie Evans, initially turned down Bachelor Clayton Echard‘s proposals during the 2022 finale, but later reconnected with him off-camera… only to separate again six months later.
However, this L.A.-based videographer asserts that their separation was for a good cause. “The people in my circle could see that my spark had faded, and I was far from flourishing,” she wrote in a November 2022 post on her blog “Susie Was Like.” She admitted that they “enjoyed many happy moments together, but deep within, I was battling and felt disconnected from the best version of myself.
After dating Justin Glaze, a participant from Bachelor Nation, Susie later revealed that their relationship had ended as well in August 2024.
Status: Separation
Teacher Michelle from Minnesota accepted a Neil Lane sparkler and a $200,000 check for their future home from Texas-based sales executive Nayte Olukoya during their season finale in December 2021. However, the couple didn’t establish a strong connection, and they announced their breakup six months later.
Nayte admitted on The Viall Files that there were many ups and downs, numerous arguments, fights, and fundamentally, they just weren’t seeing eye-to-eye. He also acknowledged that not having a proper goodbye conversation in person was “unfair.”
Michelle started dating Jack Leius in 2023, and they announced their engagement the following year.
The dynamic duo from BIP season seven, Maurissa Gunn and Riley Christian, successfully conveyed their vision of idyllic Sunday mornings to viewers. However, they were only able to spend a few weekend periods together. In a joint statement released in January 2022, their patient coordinator, Maurissa (who was romantically involved with Peter Weber), and attorney Riley (one of Tayshia Adams’ suitors) announced that they had chosen to part ways. They never anticipated this outcome, but they have now reached a stage where they both require time for personal growth.
Status: Split
The initial same-sex couple from Bachelor Nation announced their separation in October 2019, which was six seasons after they became engaged on Bachelor in Paradise.
As a committed couple, love and concern for each other have always been the cornerstone of our bond. Our utmost goal has been to make decisions that serve our collective interests best. With hearts heavy yet filled with mutual affection, we’ve concluded that it’s in our best interest to momentarily step away from our relationship. Our ultimate aim is what will benefit us most in the future, and for now, that means growing independently.
Current Status: Engaged
Although Noah Erb and Abigail Heringer ended their relationship during the seventh season of The Bachelorette, they discovered that their love could last an eternity. After initially settling in San Diego, the travel nurse (who vied for Tayshia’s affection) and the financial manager (who received Matt James’ first impression rose) recently purchased a property in his hometown of Tulsa.
In July 2023, Abigail shared on Instagram, “Preparing to enter our Chip and Joanna Gaines era because my love bought her very first house!!!” She was excited about starting their new chapter and creating memories in this new place! The couple’s future plans include some wedding preparations. Prior to their move, Noah proposed at a beachfront San Diego home in August 2023.
In a prelude to their grand wedding scheduled for September 2023, Serena Pitt (a contestant on Matt James’ season) and Joe Amabile (the Chicago grocery store owner who gained popularity after being sent home by Becca Kufrin in 2018) chose to exchange vows earlier. This impromptu ceremony took place at a City Hall close to their New York City residence, about a year after they left the Bachelor in Paradise engaged. Serena, now co-hosting the Bachelor Happy Hour podcast with her husband, captioned a video from October 2022, “JUST MARRIED!!”. They are still planning for a wedding this September, but who wouldn’t want to get married twice?
Status: Married
Kenny Braasch, the boy band manager, expressed his deep affection for Mari Pepin as he placed a Neil Lane diamond ring on her finger at the conclusion of the 2021 Paradise finale. “Mari,” he gushed, “I am absolutely smitten by you.” He continued, “I honestly can’t envision my life without you.”
Following their elimination by Tayshia Adams in week five, Mari, a former Maryland beauty queen who had initially caught Matt’s eye, relocated to Kenny’s hometown of Chicago. In preparation for their lifelong journey together, they began planning their future.
Before tying the knot in an intimate oceanfront ceremony attended by 65 guests in Puerto Rico in November 2023, they made a commitment to each other permanent. During a trip to the Bahamas in May 2023, they got matching tattoos as symbols of their enduring love.
Status: Married
Previously on ‘Bachelor in Paradise’, Becca (previously known as the Bachelorette) and Thomas Jacobs, one of Katie Thurston’s suitors, found each other during season seven in 2021. They split up during the show but reconciled after filming ended. In May 2022, they revealed their engagement with Becca taking the initiative to propose. “I hope this encourages others to break traditional norms,” she told TopMob News. In return, Thomas proposed in October that same year. Their first child, son Benson, was born in September 2023. Becca shared on Instagram, “There are no words to express the love and wonder we have for this little boy.” Just a few weeks after Benson’s arrival, they decided to get married in a sudden ceremony held on October 13th.
Status: Split
In the final episode of season 17 of “The Bachelorette” in 2021, Katie became engaged to Blake Moynes. Their romantic moment occurred during their overnight date, which featured a paintball adventure, a cowboy bathtub, and a heartfelt chat under the night sky, where they expressed their deep feelings for each other.
Bending down on a knee, Blake expressed to Katie, “You’re worth the entire universe, and I can’t wait to stand by your side and be there for you each day from now on.
Three months following the broadcast of their proposal, the pair disclosed their separation. They articulated in synchronous declarations, “We are profoundly thankful for the precious moments we experienced together and the incredible journey that unfolded throughout this year. However, we’ve come to realize that we are not a suitable match as lifelong partners. It is the kindest decision for us both to advance separately.”
Now, she is set to wed comedian Jeff Arcuri.
Current Status: Separated
In the years following Matt’s 2021 season with graphic designer Rachael Kirkconnell, they have faced numerous breakup speculations. In a recent exclusive interview with TopMob News, Matt expressed his view that people should take a break from social media, as our lives are so intertwined with it that any absence can spark rumors.
However, marriage remains the ultimate goal for them according to Matt, who emphasized their preference for going at their own pace in May 2022. He believed this approach was key to their relationship’s success and would lead them to their destination.
Yet, less than three years later, Matt announced on Instagram that he and Rachael had parted ways.
“Father God, give strength to Rachael and I to heal our broken hearts,” the reality star wrote alongside a throwback photo of them from The Bachelor. “Grant us peace about this decision to end our relationship that surpasses worldly understanding. Shower our friends and family with kindness and love to comfort us. And remind us that our joy comes from you, Lord.”
Status: Split
Following Clare Crawley’s 2020 season of The Bachelorette, Tayshia got acquainted with and developed feelings for Zac Clark. Despite leaving her season as an engaged couple, it was later disclosed by the ex-Bachelorette and now co-host that their relationship faced some highs and lows.
In a new relationship, it can be challenging to leave for a couple of weeks, right? This statement comes from a place of authenticity and honesty. She shared this on the “The Ben and Ashley I. Almost Famous” podcast in August 2021.
Later on, she said, “It seemed as though we needed to recall the reasons for being together, and that’s perfectly fine in my opinion.” However, it was reported by TopMob News in November 2021 that they had decided to part ways.
Status: Split
During season 16 of “The Bachelorette,” Clare developed a deep affection for Dale Moss. By the fourth episode, they were even engaged. However, the unexpected events didn’t end there. Weeks after Clare was replaced by Tayshia, Dale publicly announced on social media that his relationship with the hairdresser had already ended.
Approximately a month later, whispers of reconciliation started circulating as they were seen together once more. Jump ahead to July 2021, following numerous get-togethers, Clare and Dale had officially rekindled their relationship, complete with an engagement ring. However, by September, the couple parted ways again. Now, Clare is blissfully married to Ryan Dawkins and they’re anticipating the arrival of their first child together.
Status: Split
Following a short-lived commitment with winner Hannah Ann Sluss and later breakup with runner-up Madison Prewett, fans rooted for Peter to find lasting love the third time. Unfortunately, the relationship between him and The Bachelor season 24‘s Kelley Flanagan didn’t work out as planned, as the pilot announced on New Year’s Eve 2020 that their nine-month romance had ended.
In his Instagram post, Pete conveyed that even though our bond was rich with many cherished moments, unfortunately, it couldn’t sustain itself in the long run. However, he expressed that Kelley remains someone he will forever hold a unique affection towards.
In 2022, the duo made another attempt at flying again, but later in May, they disclosed that their relationship had come to an end.
Status: Split
After the emotional 2020 finale, the pair shared on Instagram that they would no longer be continuing their romantic journey. In Peter’s own words, “Madi and I have decided, after much discussion, not to advance our relationship any further.” Although it was difficult for both of them, they felt this decision was best for them, following many sincere conversations. The affection and regard I have for Madi will remain strong.
Madi mentioned in her statement, “I’ll forever cherish and honor him. I firmly believe that our lives were destined to intersect, making us both the richer for it.
Status: Split
During season 24 of ‘The Bachelor’, Peter and Hannah Ann had a brief engagement. Regrettably, by the second part of the finale, it became clear that the pair were facing difficulties just a month into their exclusive relationship. More specifically, Hannah Ann was taken aback when she learned about Peter’s ongoing feelings for Madison.
All along, I just wanted someone to fully commit to me as I am to them. And you ended my first engagement,” she said as she returned the ring. “You took that commitment away from me. That’s what I’ve always asked of you – trust and patience.
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2025-04-23 03:19