Golden Bachelor's Jesse Palmer Addresses Mel Owens' Ageist Comments: 'It's His Opinion'
The drama continues on ABC's The Golden Bachelor! Following contestant Mel Owens' controversial comments about not wanting to date women “60 or over,” host Jesse Palmer has finally broken his silence. Palmer addressed the situation in a recent interview, offering a measured response to the backlash swirling around Owens’ remarks.
For those who missed it, Owens, 66, made the comments during a podcast appearance, stating he was “cutting” any potential partners over the age of 60. The remarks sparked immediate outrage online, with many criticizing Owens for his ageist views and ABC for allowing such opinions to be aired. The controversy has intensified scrutiny of the show’s casting choices and its portrayal of relationships in later life.
Palmer, who’s been a steadfast presence on the show, chose a diplomatic approach when questioned about the controversy. “Everyone’s entitled to their opinion,” he told People Magazine. “It’s his opinion, and he’s entitled to feel that way. We’re all here looking for love, and everyone has different preferences.”
While Palmer refrained from directly criticizing Owens, his statement subtly acknowledged the problematic nature of the comments. He emphasized the diversity of preferences within the group of contestants, implicitly suggesting that Owens' narrow view doesn’t represent the broader sentiment of the show.
The situation highlights a larger conversation about ageism and dating in later life. Many viewers have pointed out the hypocrisy of a show celebrating the joys of finding love at an older age simultaneously showcasing a contestant expressing such limiting beliefs. ABC has not yet released an official statement regarding Owens’ comments.
The remaining episodes of The Golden Bachelor are sure to be filled with more drama as the contestants continue their search for love. Viewers will be watching closely to see how the controversy impacts the relationships and the overall narrative of the season. Whether Owens’ comments will affect his journey on the show remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the conversation surrounding age and dating is far from over.
The show’s success has demonstrated a significant appetite for stories of love and connection in later life. However, incidents like this underscore the importance of addressing ageism and promoting inclusivity within the dating landscape, both on screen and off.