Mel Owens, the new Golden Bachelor, apologized for controversial comments about his preferred age range for partners (45-60). His remarks, made on a podcast, sparked backlash from Bachelor Nation. Owens clarified his statements stemmed from a lack of understanding of the show's age demographics and a long dating hiatus. He since apologized to the contestants, and several have accepted his apology. The show returns this fall on ABC.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.