Mel Owens’ Ex-Wife Fabiana Pimentel: The Untold Story Behind The Golden Bachelor Drama

As Mel Owens embarks on his quest for love in Season 2 of The Golden Bachelor, viewers find themselves drawn not only to his charming demeanor but also to the intricacies of his past, particularly his marriage to Fabiana Pimentel Owens. This relationship, now a chapter closed, serves as a poignant backdrop to Mel’s search for companionship later in life.

During the season premiere, Mel revealed, “My wife filed for divorce. She had found someone new. I was shocked. It’s heart-wrenching. It’s the toughest thing that I have ever gone through.” This admission strikes a chord, as many can relate to the emotional turmoil of a relationship’s end. Mel, who describes his ex-wife as his “first love,” reflects on the depth of their connection, emphasizing his enjoyment of marriage and partnership. It’s this vulnerability that resonates with both the Golden Gals vying for his affection and the broader audience of Bachelor Nation.

So, who exactly is Fabiana Pimentel Owens? A look at her professional background reveals a highly accomplished individual. Currently serving as the Director of Experiences at Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Fabiana also co-founded Final Touch Organizing. Her academic achievements include a master’s degree in marketing from UCLA, obtained in 2003, alongside a bachelor’s degree in business from Faculdade da Cidade in Brazil, where she hails from. This impressive resume not only highlights her professional prowess but also adds layers to Mel’s narrative, illustrating the dynamic between them during their 25-year marriage.

Age-wise, Fabiana is 47, a noteworthy detail considering Mel’s preference for partners aged between 45 and 60, as he shared in a podcast earlier this year. Their age difference of 19 years adds another layer to their story, prompting curiosity about the dynamics of their relationship and how they navigated the complexities of a significant age gap.

Their marriage, however, came to a painful end in February 2020 when Fabiana filed for divorce, with the finalization occurring in December 2024. This lengthy process underscores the emotional and practical challenges that often accompany the dissolution of long-term relationships. Mel’s perspective on this transition is both mature and poignant. He stated, “I’m never going to get in the way of someone’s happiness… Life is short, and if you’re in love with somebody else, that’s fine.” His acceptance of Fabiana’s new path reflects a commendable level of emotional intelligence and self-awareness, traits that viewers may find appealing.

However, the divorce has not been without its complications. Reports surfaced indicating a court ruling that required Mel to pay Fabiana $980,000, covering various financial obligations including child support and loans. While Mel managed to meet his financial responsibilities, Fabiana’s comments about his new role in The Golden Bachelor were less than supportive, indicating lingering tensions. “Good luck. I mean, it’s going to be bad. But anyway, I don’t want to be involved in this,” she reportedly said, suggesting that despite their separation, the complexities of their past continue to cast a shadow.

As Mel navigates the dating landscape on television, his journey is not just about finding love again; it’s also about reconciling his past. His willingness to share his experiences and emotions invites viewers into a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs associated with seeking love later in life. New episodes of The Golden Bachelor air Wednesdays, allowing audiences to witness this heartfelt exploration of romance, resilience, and the ever-evolving nature of relationships.