The Golden Bachelor Season 2 finale was nothing short of explosive. After eight emotional weeks, Mel Owens finally made his choice in a jaw-dropping rose ceremony that left fans speechless.
The 66-year-old retired NFL linebacker proposed to Peg Munsen, 62, after a shocking breakup with frontrunner Cindy Cullers, 60 — a twist that had viewers glued to their screens.
Host Jesse Palmer opened the two-hour finale in front of a studio audience packed with Bachelor Nation stars and former contestants.
The night began with the cliffhanger continuation of Owens’ fantasy suite date with Cullers in Antigua. Sitting together on a dock, Cullers asked Owens if he was ready to get engaged. His hesitation — and admission that he wanted to wait two more years — led Cullers to walk away in heartbreak.
Cindy Cullers’ Emotional Exit
Cullers later revealed in a sit-down interview: “He did not come find me, and I didn’t want him to.”
Her emotional departure shocked fans, many of whom had pegged her as the likely winner. Social media lit up with reactions, calling the breakup “gut-wrenching” and “the most shocking twist of the season.”
Peg Munsen’s Romantic Proposal
Back in Antigua, Owens confessed his fears to Peg Munsen, worried she might feel like the “default choice.” But ultimately, he declared: “We are perfect for each other. I love her. I love being around her. So I’m saying yes to Peg. I hope she says yes to me.”
Munsen eagerly accepted his proposal, and the two exchanged heartfelt speeches before Owens pulled out a Neil Lane ring and popped the question.
Owens’ Controversial Journey
Owens’ season began in late September and was not without controversy. Ahead of filming, he faced backlash for comments about only wanting to date women under 60.
Ironically, his cast of 23 women was almost entirely over 60, and several confronted him about his remarks during the premiere. Owens later apologized, calling his comments “insensitive.”
Why Fans Are Talking
The Golden Bachelor finale is trending because it combined shocking twists, heartfelt speeches, and a viral proposal. Fans praised Munsen’s grace and Owens’ emotional vulnerability, while others debated whether Cullers deserved a different ending.
One fan summed it up: “This finale had everything — heartbreak, drama, and a love story that felt real.”
With a shocking breakup, an emotional proposal, and a rose ceremony that left fans speechless, The Golden Bachelor proved once again why it remains one of reality TV’s most unforgettable spectacles.
