Celebrity
Meet Lori Butler: Austin Butler’s Mother, Hero, and Biggest Supporter
Lori Butler was the mother who believed in Austin Butler before millions knew his name. She drove him to auditions, took him to acting classes, and changed her own work life to help him follow his dream. Austin later called Lori his hero and best friend and said he owed her everything.
Lori was also the mother of Ashley Butler and the former wife of David Butler. She kept much of her own life private, but the stories shared by her children show how close the family was. Her support played a key part in Austin’s early years as a young actor.
Sadly, Lori Butler died from cancer in 2014 at age 50. Austin was only 23 at the time, and the loss had a deep effect on him. This article covers Lori’s life, work, children, support for Austin, cancer, death, and the special ways her family continues to honor her.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lori Anne Howell Butler |
| Known As | Lori Butler |
| Date of Birth | May 6, 1964 |
| Birth Country | United States |
| Date of Death | September 12, 2014 |
| Age at Death | 50 years old |
| Cause of Death | Cancer |
| Specific Cancer Reported | Duodenal cancer |
| Known For | Mother of Austin Butler |
| Occupation | Aesthetician; also reported to have worked in childcare and as a dental assistant |
| Home Daycare | Reportedly ran a daycare from her home |
| Former Husband | David Butler |
| Children | Ashley Butler and Austin Butler |
| Daughter | Ashley Butler, born in 1986 |
| Son | Austin Robert Butler, born August 17, 1991 |
| Family Home | Anaheim area, California |
| Marriage Status | Divorced |
| Austin’s Age When Parents Divorced | About 7 years old |
| Role in Austin’s Career | Drove him to auditions and took him to acting classes |
| Austin’s Description of Her | His “hero” and “best friend” |
| Memorial Tattoo | Austin has the number 27 tattooed on his wrist |
| Meaning of 27 | Lori called 27 her “God number” |
| Lasting Legacy | Her support helped Austin begin and build his acting career |
Who Was Lori Butler?
Lori Butler was born Lori Anne Howell on May 6, 1964. She later became known as Austin Butler’s mother, but her life centered on family long before her son became famous. She lived in California and raised her children in the Anaheim area.
Lori was a working mother who took on different jobs while caring for her family. She has been described as an aesthetician. Other reports say she worked as a dental assistant and later ran a daycare from her home. Her work helped her stay close to her children.
She did not seek fame for herself. Most of what people know about Lori comes from memories shared by Austin, Ashley, and other family members. These stories show a mother who spent much of her time helping her children.
Lori Butler’s Early Life and Work
There is little public information about Lori Butler’s childhood and early life. She was born in the United States in 1964 and later lived in Southern California. Unlike Austin, she did not work in the public eye, so many details about her early life were never shared.
Her work history has been described in different ways. Some records list Lori as an aesthetician, while other reports say she worked as a dental assistant. She also ran a daycare from her home for some time. This gave her a way to work while staying close to her children.
As Austin became more serious about acting, Lori’s work life changed. Her sister, Hilary Howell Miller, later said Lori gave up much of her own career to support her son. She reportedly stopped running the daycare and found work that fit Austin’s acting schedule.
Some reports say she worked as a stand-in on TV sets. This gave her more freedom to stay near Austin while he worked. Auditions, classes, travel, and filming could take up much of the day, and Lori made sure Austin had the support he needed.
Lori Butler and David Butler’s Family Life
Lori Butler was married to David Butler, the father of Ashley and Austin. The family lived in Southern California near Anaheim. David has been described as working in real estate, including commercial real estate appraisal.
Lori and David later divorced when Austin was around seven years old. After the divorce, Austin and Ashley spent time between their parents’ homes. Austin has spoken about his childhood without describing the split as a major public family fight.
Both parents stayed part of their children’s lives. Still, Austin’s close bond with his mother became clear in later interviews. Lori was very involved in his daily life and his early acting career.
Growing up near Disneyland also became part of Austin’s childhood. Reports say Lori tried to give her children fun experiences even when money was tight. Their home near the park made visits easier, and Austin later entered entertainment at a young age.
Lori Butler’s Children: Ashley and Austin Butler
Lori Butler had two children. Her oldest child, Ashley Butler, was born in 1986. Her younger child, Austin Robert Butler, was born on August 17, 1991, in Anaheim, California.
Ashley also had a small link to entertainment. She appeared as a background performer with Austin on Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide. Unlike her brother, she did not go on to build the same kind of public acting career.
Lori shared a close bond with both children. Years after her death, Ashley continued to post loving messages about her mother. In one birthday tribute, she wrote about how much she still missed Lori and said time had not made the loss easier.
Austin has spoken about his mother in the same loving way. He called her his hero and best friend. Those words show how close they were and how much her support meant to him.
Austin and Ashley also stayed close after losing their mother. Austin chose Ashley as his guest for major events, including the Golden Globes in 2023. Their bond became one more way Lori’s family stayed connected after her death.
How Lori Butler Supported Austin Butler’s Career?
Austin did not grow up with a clear plan to become a Hollywood actor. As a young boy, he was shy and had other interests. His move into entertainment happened by chance when he was around ten and was noticed while another child was trying out for work.
Once Austin became interested in acting, Lori Butler took his talent seriously. She drove him to auditions and took him to acting classes. Austin later said he owed his mother “everything” because she gave up work to help him.
For a young actor, auditions are only one part of the job. There are also classes, meetings, filming days, and travel. A child cannot manage all of that alone. Lori helped Austin move from one chance to the next.
His early work included small parts before he began getting larger roles. Austin later appeared in youth shows linked to Nickelodeon and Disney Channel, including Hannah Montana, Zoey 101, and Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide. Lori was there when acting changed from something new into a real career.
Her support also meant giving up things of her own. According to Lori’s sister Hilary, Lori stopped focusing on her own career and planned her work around Austin. She even took jobs on TV sets so she could stay close to his schedule.
Lori Butler and Austin Butler’s Special Bond
Lori Butler and Austin shared a very close bond. Austin did not see her only as his mother. He also saw her as the person he could trust most. After she died, he called her his hero and best friend.
Their bond was built through simple moments at home too. Austin has spoken about watching Saturday Night Live with his mother. Years later, he hosted the show himself. That made the moment special because it brought back memories of Lori.
Lori also believed in Austin when he was still a shy young actor. She gave him time, care, and support before fame came into his life. Austin never forgot that. Even after becoming a major Hollywood star, he kept talking about the role his mother played in his life.
Lori Butler’s Cancer and Final Years
The final part of Lori Butler’s life was very hard for her family. She was diagnosed with cancer. Some reports say she had duodenal cancer, a cancer that starts in part of the small intestine.
One report says Lori learned about her illness about nine months before her death. Her health became worse during this time. Austin spent time around hospitals, doctors, and people dealing with serious health problems.
Seeing his mother face cancer had a deep effect on Austin. He had spent years watching Lori care for him and support his dreams. Now he had to watch someone he loved face a serious illness. This time later changed how he thought about life and acting.
What Happened to Lori Butler?
Lori Butler died on September 12, 2014, at the age of 50. Austin was only 23 years old when he lost his mother. His sister, Ashley, also lost the woman who had been a large part of her life.
Austin shared the news in a public message that showed how close they were. He called Lori his mother, hero, and best friend. He also asked people to celebrate her and said he would miss her every day.
Lori’s death came years before some of Austin’s biggest roles. She did not get to see him play Elvis Presley or earn major awards for the role. Still, the support she gave him as a child remained part of the career he later built.
How Lori Butler’s Death Changed Austin Butler?
Austin had little time to deal with his grief before work called. Soon after his mother died, he went to New Zealand to film The Shannara Chronicles. On set, he worked, rode horses, and did his job. At night, things were very different.
Austin later said he would go home and cry every night. Losing Lori Butler made him question acting. After spending time around hospitals and people with cancer, he began to wonder if he should do something else with his life.
He even thought about leaving acting to help people dealing with cancer. He asked himself if acting was important enough after seeing so much pain. After The Shannara Chronicles ended, he stepped away for a time and went through a very low period.
His career later began to change. Austin got the chance to appear in The Iceman Cometh on Broadway with Denzel Washington. The role gave him a fresh start. Washington later spoke highly of Austin to director Baz Luhrmann, who was preparing his film about Elvis Presley.
Lori Butler’s Connection to Austin Butler’s Elvis Role
Austin found a strong link between his own life and the life of Elvis Presley. Elvis was very close to his mother, Gladys Presley. He was also 23 when he lost her. Austin was the same age when Lori died.
That shared loss helped Austin understand Elvis in a personal way. He knew what it felt like to lose a mother who was also a best friend. Instead of only copying Elvis’s voice and movements, Austin tried to understand the pain behind the man.
A key moment came while Austin was trying to win the role. In 2019, he woke from a dream about his mother. The dream left him full of emotion. He then recorded himself singing an Elvis song.
Austin later explained that he felt as if he was singing to his mom. That feeling helped make the performance personal. The tape became part of the process that caught Baz Luhrmann’s attention and helped Austin move closer to the role.
Austin went on to play Elvis in the 2022 film Elvis. The role changed his career and brought him major praise. He won a Golden Globe and BAFTA and received an Academy Award nomination. Lori was not there to see it, but her memory had helped Austin connect with the role.
How Austin Butler Honors Lori Butler Today?
Austin keeps his mother close in a simple and lasting way. He has a small tattoo of the number 27 on his wrist. The number has a special meaning because Lori called 27 her “God number.”
Austin explained that when Lori saw 27, she felt that God was looking out for her. He later chose the number as a tattoo in her memory. It is a small mark, but it carries a very personal meaning for him.
He has also honored Lori in public. During his Saturday Night Live hosting debut in 2022, Austin spoke about watching the show with his mother as a child. He said he had been thinking about her a lot.
The tributes have continued over the years. In May 2025, Austin shared a childhood photo with Lori for her birthday. He wrote a short message wishing his mother a happy birthday and said he missed her every day.
Ashley has also kept her mother’s memory alive. In a 2020 birthday tribute, she wrote about how much she still missed Lori. She said that even after six birthdays without her mother, the pain had not become easier.
As of 2026, Lori remains an important part of the way Austin talks about his family and early life. His career has grown far beyond the child acting roles she once drove him to. Yet he still gives his mother credit for helping him get started.
Final Thoughts
Lori Butler lived away from the fame that later surrounded her son. She worked, raised two children, and gave Austin the support he needed to follow acting. She drove him to auditions, took him to classes, and changed her own work life to help him.
Her death in 2014 changed Austin in a deep way. He questioned his work, faced a hard period of grief, and had to find his way forward. Years later, those feelings helped him understand the pain Elvis Presley felt after losing his own mother.
Lori did not live to see Austin reach the biggest years of his career. Yet her place in his story is clear. From his number 27 tattoo to his public tributes, Austin still honors the mother he called his hero and best friend. Her support remains one of the most personal parts of his success.
FAQs
Who was Lori Butler?
Lori Butler was the mother of actor Austin Butler and his older sister, Ashley Butler.
What happened to Lori Butler?
Lori Butler died from cancer on September 12, 2014, when she was 50 years old.
What type of cancer did Lori Butler have?
Some reports state that Lori Butler had duodenal cancer, though many reports simply describe her illness as cancer.
How did Lori Butler help Austin Butler become an actor?
She drove Austin to auditions, took him to acting classes, and changed her work life so she could support his early career.
Why does Austin Butler have a 27 tattoo?
Austin has 27 tattooed on his wrist because Lori called it her “God number” and felt it meant God was looking out for her.
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Joshua A. Block is an American civil rights lawyer best known for his work with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). He graduated from Amherst College in 2001 and Yale Law School in 2005. He joined the ACLU in 2010 and worked on major cases involving marriage equality, transgender rights, and discrimination.
Block serves as Senior Counsel in the ACLU’s LGBTQ & HIV Projects. A 2021 school alumni profile reported that he lived with his husband and two children.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joshua A. Block |
| Also Known As | Josh Block |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Civil Rights Attorney |
| Known For | LGBTQ Rights and Civil Rights Cases |
| Current Position | Senior Counsel |
| Organization | American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) |
| Department | LGBTQ & HIV Projects |
| High School | Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School |
| High School Graduation | 1997 |
| College | Amherst College |
| College Graduation | 2001 |
| College Major | English |
| Law School | Yale Law School |
| Law Degree | Juris Doctor (J.D.) |
| Law School Graduation | 2005 |
| Former Law Firm | Jenner & Block LLP |
| Former Position | Litigation Associate |
| Judicial Clerkship | Judge Robert D. Sack |
| Joined ACLU | 2010 |
| Major Cases | Windsor, Obergefell, Grimm, Stone, West Virginia v. B.P.J. |
| Supreme Court Argument | January 13, 2026 |
| Professional Award | Best LGBT Lawyers Under 40 (2012) |
| Documentary | The Fight (2020) |
| Teaching Experience | Visiting Lecturer at Yale Law School |
| Marital Status | Married, as reported in 2021 |
| Husband’s Name | Not publicly confirmed |
| Children | Two, according to a 2021 report |
| Previously Reported Residence | Brooklyn, New York (2021) |
Joshua A. Block’s Early Life
Joshua A. Block attended Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville, Maryland. He studied there from first through twelfth grade and graduated in 1997.
During tenth grade, he worked as a co-editor of the school newspaper, The Lion’s Tale. He wrote an article about the separation of church and state. The topic deals with the rules that keep government and religion separate. He later used this article as a writing sample when applying for an ACLU internship.
Block has spoken about the teachers who helped him during school. He credited his English teachers with improving his reading and writing skills. His history teacher, Mrs. Powers, helped him learn about government and civil rights. He also praised Mrs. Zuckerman for teaching him teamwork through the school newspaper.
Joshua A. Block’s Education
After high school, Joshua A. Block attended Amherst College in Massachusetts. He graduated in 2001 and studied English. In a later interview, he explained that his English background helped him write legal arguments and tell people’s stories clearly.
He then attended Yale Law School in Connecticut. He earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree in 2005. This degree prepares students for a career in law. Block also contributed legal writing to the Yale Law Journal, a publication focused on law and legal research.
His interest in civil rights started before he became a lawyer. He had already gained experience through an ACLU internship. In a 2018 interview with Slate, he said he had hoped to work for the ACLU or a similar group. He later reached that goal after working at a private law firm.
How Joshua A. Block Started His Legal Career?
Joshua A. Block began his career by working with federal courts and private law firms. After law school, he served as a clerk for Judge Robert D. Sack of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. His duties included legal research and helping with court papers and decisions.
He later worked at Jenner & Block LLP in New York from 2006 to 2010. His work included business disputes, internal investigations, white-collar defense, and appeals. He gained experience preparing legal papers and handling cases in federal courts.
In his 2018 Slate interview, Block explained why he chose Jenner & Block. Lawyers at the firm had worked on Lawrence v. Texas, a 2003 Supreme Court case about the rights of same-sex couples. Their work interested him. He wanted civil rights law to become his main focus, so he joined the ACLU in 2010.
Joshua A. Block’s Career at the ACLU
Joshua A. Block joined the ACLU’s LGBTQ & HIV Project in 2010. The project works on cases involving LGBTQ people and people living with HIV. He later became Senior Counsel. His legal work covers marriage rights, education, jobs, healthcare, military service, and free speech.
Much of his work happens outside the courtroom. In his Slate interview, Block said lawyers spend many hours reading case files, writing legal briefs, and speaking with clients. A legal brief is a written paper that explains the facts and laws in a case. He also works with local ACLU teams when cases take place in different states.
Block often handles cases that may change how laws are used. He has explained that lawyers must tell their clients’ stories clearly and accurately. They must also make sure the facts are presented fairly in court.
Some cases take years to finish because they move through different courts. Block’s work on the Gavin Grimm case is one example. He continued to represent Grimm through several legal stages as the courts reviewed the student’s rights.
Joshua A. Block’s Role in Marriage Equality Cases
Joshua A. Block worked on two major Supreme Court cases involving same-sex marriage. These were United States v. Windsor in 2013 and Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015. Both cases led to major changes in U.S. marriage law.
In United States v. Windsor, the Supreme Court struck down a key part of the Defense of Marriage Act. The law had stopped the federal government from giving equal recognition to certain same-sex marriages. The 2013 ruling changed how the federal government treated legally married same-sex couples. Block was part of the legal team that worked on the case.
On June 26, 2015, the Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that same-sex couples had the right to marry across the United States. Block also worked with the legal team in this case. His marriage rights work included cases in Utah, Virginia, Kansas, and Missouri. In Utah, he helped with legal action involving same-sex marriages performed before a court order was put on hold.
Gavin Grimm Case
Joshua A. Block served as the lead lawyer for Gavin Grimm, a transgender student from Virginia. Grimm was a student at Gloucester High School when the school board stopped him from using the boys’ restroom. He had used it before without problems, but the board later made a rule that stopped him from doing so.
Block and the ACLU took legal action against the school board in 2015. They argued that the rule treated Grimm unfairly because he was transgender. The case focused on Title IX, a federal law that protects students from sex-based discrimination. It also raised questions about equal rights under the U.S. Constitution.
The case went through several courts over many years. In 2020, a federal appeals court ruled in Grimm’s favor. In June 2021, the Supreme Court declined to hear the school board’s appeal, leaving that ruling in place. The result was an important legal win for Grimm and helped shape how schools in the Fourth Circuit must treat transgender students.
Joshua A. Block’s 2026 Supreme Court Case
In January 2026, Joshua A. Block argued another major case before the U.S. Supreme Court. The case, West Virginia v. B.P.J., involved Becky Pepper-Jackson, a transgender student who wanted to compete on her school’s girls’ sports teams. West Virginia had passed a law that stopped transgender girls from joining these teams.
Block argued that the law treated Pepper-Jackson unfairly. His legal team said the ban broke Title IX and the Constitution’s equal protection rules. The case raised questions about school sports, gender, and how federal law protects students.
On June 30, 2026, the Supreme Court ruled against the students challenging sports restrictions in West Virginia and Idaho. The Court upheld the bans at issue. Block later spoke about the ruling and its effects on transgender students. The case became one of his most widely covered legal battles in 2026.
Joshua A. Block’s Other Civil Rights Work
Joshua A. Block has worked on several civil rights cases beyond marriage and school rights. In 2017, he helped challenge President Donald Trump’s restrictions on transgender people serving in the U.S. military. The case, Stone v. Trump, questioned whether the government could limit military service based on gender identity. A federal judge later blocked major parts of the policy while the case continued.
His work also covers healthcare rights. He has helped challenge rules that limit access to gender-affirming medical care. He has also worked on cases involving unfair treatment at work and claims that religious beliefs allow businesses or groups to deny equal services to LGBTQ people.
Block also leads the ACLU LGBTQ Project’s work on free speech. This includes legal action against restrictions on LGBTQ books in school libraries and bans on drag performances. These cases focus on the right to share ideas, read books, and express views without unfair government limits.
Joshua A. Block’s Husband and Marriage
Joshua A. Block is married to a man, according to a 2021 alumni profile published by Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School. The profile mentioned that he lived in Brooklyn, New York, with his husband and their two children. It did not give his husband’s name or their wedding date.
Block has spoken about being gay and his experiences growing up. In a school interview, he shared that he did not feel ready to be open about his identity during his student years. He also said he wished he had seen more openly LGBTQ teachers and families at school.
His public interviews mainly focus on his legal work and civil rights issues. Details about his wedding, his husband’s career, and their relationship history have not been confirmed in the reviewed sources.
Joshua A. Block’s Children and Family Life
Joshua A. Block is the father of two children, according to the same 2021 school profile. At that time, one child was seven years old, and the other was two. The report also confirmed that Block lived with his husband and children in Brooklyn.
The names and exact birth dates of his children have not been publicly confirmed. The ages given in the 2021 report should not be treated as their current ages in 2026. There are also no confirmed details about their schools or daily activities.
Block has shared more about his work than his home life. His interviews with Slate and his former school discuss his education, career, and views on civil rights. They provide only a small amount of information about his children and marriage.
Joshua A. Block’s Achievements
Joshua A. Block received professional recognition in 2012 when the LGBT Bar Association named him one of its Best LGBT Lawyers Under 40. The honor recognized his work in LGBTQ law. By that time, he had already joined the ACLU and was handling civil rights cases.
His work was also featured in the 2020 documentary The Fight. The film followed ACLU lawyers working on major legal cases during the first Trump administration. Block appeared in connection with the legal challenge to restrictions on transgender military service.
He also served as a Visiting Lecturer in Law at Yale Law School. There, he taught an LGBT Rights Litigation Seminar. His teaching covered the type of legal work he had handled during his career. As of 2026, the ACLU continues to list him as Senior Counsel in its LGBTQ & HIV Projects.
Interesting Facts
- Joshua A. Block is an American civil rights lawyer and Senior Counsel at the ACLU.
- He graduated from Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in 1997.
- He studied English at Amherst College before attending Yale Law School.
- He earned his law degree from Yale in 2005.
- He worked at Jenner & Block LLP before joining the ACLU in 2010.
- He served as a law clerk for federal judge Robert D. Sack.
- He was part of the legal teams in United States v. Windsor and Obergefell v. Hodges.
- He served as the lead lawyer for transgender student Gavin Grimm.
- He argued before the U.S. Supreme Court in January 2026.
- He was named one of the Best LGBT Lawyers Under 40 in 2012.
- His legal work was featured in the 2020 documentary The Fight.
- He taught an LGBT Rights Litigation Seminar at Yale Law School.
- A 2021 school alumni profile reported that he has a husband and two children.
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Fabiana Pimentel is a Brazilian businesswoman best known as the former wife of Mel Owens, a retired NFL player and star of The Golden Bachelor. Born in Brazil, she later moved to the United States and built a career in marketing and hospitality. They married in May 2002 and had two sons before divorcing in December 2024.
Fabiana also co-founded Final Touch Organizing and worked at Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Her current job, relationship status, and place of residence in 2026 remain unconfirmed.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Fabiana Pimentel Owens |
| Known as | Fabiana Pimentel |
| Birth year | Reportedly 1978 |
| Age in 2026 | 47 or 48; exact birthday unconfirmed |
| Birthplace | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Profession | Businesswoman and hospitality professional |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in Business |
| University in Brazil | Faculdade da Cidade |
| Higher education | Master’s degree in Marketing |
| University in the US | University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) |
| Master’s graduation year | Reportedly 2003 |
| Former employer | VARIG Airlines |
| Previous position | Assistant Manager at NBO Law |
| Business | Final Touch Organizing |
| Business co-founder | Karine Schaefer |
| Most recently reported employer | Preferred Hotels & Resorts |
| Reported job title | Director of Experiences |
| Former husband | Mel Owens |
| Marriage date | May 17, 2002 |
| Separation | February 2020 |
| Divorce finalized | December 2024 |
| Children | Two sons |
| Sons’ names | Lucas Owens and Andre Owens |
| Lucas Owens’ birth year | 2005 |
| Andre Owens’ birth year | 2007 |
| Former husband’s TV show | The Golden Bachelor Season 2 |
| Reported divorce payment order | $980,000 |
| Known interests | Travel, art, photography, Feng Shui, and wellness |
How Old Is Fabiana Pimentel?
Fabiana was reported to be 47 years old in 2025. Her exact date of birth has not been made public. Based on her reported age, she would be 47 or 48 in October 2026.
Her former husband, Mel Owens, was born on December 7, 1958. He was 43 when they married in May 2002. Fabiana was around 23 or 24 at the time, making her about 19 years younger than him.
Their age gap became a topic of interest in 2025. During a podcast interview, Mel said he preferred women aged 45 to 60. His comments drew criticism before The Golden Bachelor aired. There is no clear evidence that their age gap caused their divorce.
Fabiana Pimentel’s Early Life and Family
Fabiana grew up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Her mother, Fabia, owned a shop that sold antiques and home décor. Fabiana spent time around furniture, art, and other items used to decorate homes.
In a May 2021 interview with Shoutout SoCal, she spoke about her mother’s work. She said the shop helped spark her interest in home design. She later used that interest when she started her own organizing business.
Fabiana moved to the United States and settled in California. By 2021, she had lived in the country for more than 20 years. She spent much of her adult life in Orange County, including Laguna Niguel.
Education
Fabiana studied business at Faculdade da Cidade in Brazil. She earned a bachelor’s degree before continuing her studies in the United States.
She later attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Reports of her work history state that she earned a master’s degree in marketing in 2003. By then, she had already married Mel Owens and settled in California.
Her studies focused on business and marketing. She later worked in airline marketing, law office management, and hospitality. She also used her skills to help run a home organizing company.
Fabiana Pimentel’s Career and Jobs
Fabiana worked in marketing at VARIG Airlines in Brazil from 1998 to 2002, according to published career reports. VARIG was a major Brazilian airline. Her role gave her experience in the travel business.
From 2007 to May 2016, she worked as an assistant manager at NBO Law. The law firm was linked to her former husband, Mel Owens. Her job involved helping with office work and daily business tasks.
After leaving NBO Law, she moved into other fields. In 2020, she helped start a home organizing company. She later took a role in the hotel business, adding to her work history in travel and customer service.
Fabiana Pimentel’s Business, Final Touch Organizing
Fabiana helped start Final Touch Organizing in April 2020 with Karine Schaefer, another businesswoman from Brazil. The company offered services to organize homes and offices.
The business used Feng Shui, a Chinese practice based on how spaces are arranged. In her 2021 interview with Shoutout SoCal, Fabiana said she used these ideas to make homes feel calm and balanced. The company also helped clients keep their spaces neat and easy to use.
Karine brought experience in fashion and product design. Together, they worked on home design and organizing projects. Published career details show that Fabiana remained involved with the company until May 2023.
Where Is Fabiana Pimentel Now?
Fabiana has lived in Southern California for many years. Reports have linked her to Corona del Mar in Orange County. However, her exact place of residence in 2026 has not been confirmed.
In May 2023, she reportedly joined Preferred Hotels & Resorts as Director of Experiences. The company works with luxury hotels around the world. Her role was reported in 2025, but there is no confirmed public update on whether she still holds it in October 2026.
Outside work, Fabiana enjoys travel, art, and photography. She has also shared her interest in crystals, Reiki, and ThetaHealing. Since her divorce, few details about her current personal life have been made public.
How Did Fabiana Pimentel Meet Mel Owens?
Fabiana Pimentel met Mel Owens before they married in 2002. Mel was a former NFL player who played for the Los Angeles Rams from 1981 to 1989. He later became a lawyer. The exact details of their first meeting are not publicly known.
The couple married on May 17, 2002. Mel was 43 years old, while Fabiana was around 24. They had an age gap of about 19 years. After their wedding, they settled in Laguna Niguel, California.
During their marriage, Fabiana continued her education and worked at Mel’s law firm. They also welcomed two sons. Their marriage lasted nearly 18 years before they separated in 2020.
Fabiana Pimentel and Mel Owens’ Marriage
Fabiana and Mel Owens married in May 2002 and lived in Orange County, California. Their first son, Lucas, was born in 2005. Their second son, Andre, was born in 2007.
Both parents worked while raising their children. Mel was an attorney, while Fabiana worked at NBO Law from 2007 to 2016. She later helped start a home organizing business.
Their marriage ended after Fabiana filed for divorce in February 2020. The legal process took nearly five years. Their divorce became final in December 2024, more than 22 years after their wedding.
Why Did Fabiana Pimentel Divorce Mel Owens?
Fabiana Pimentel filed for divorce on February 27, 2020, in Orange County, California. She cited irreconcilable differences as the reason for ending their marriage.
Mel later spoke about the divorce during The Golden Bachelor. He said he was shocked when Fabiana wanted to leave. He also claimed she had found someone else. However, Fabiana has not publicly shared a full account of their separation.
Mel said the divorce was one of the hardest times of his life. He also spoke about missing married life. Their divorce was finalized in December 2024.
Fabiana Pimentel and Mel Owens’ Divorce Settlement
According to reports, Mel Owens was ordered to pay Fabiana about $980,000 as part of their divorce settlement. The payment was due by February 28, 2025.
The amount covered unpaid support, shared property, debts, and legal fees. Mel also kept the former family home in Orange County. According to reports, the property was worth more than $2 million.
A September 2025 court filing claimed that Mel had paid only $40,000 toward the settlement. Other reports gave a different account of the payments. The final amount paid has not been confirmed.
Fabiana Pimentel’s Children, Lucas and Andre
Fabiana and Mel Owens have two sons, Lucas and Andre. Lucas was born in 2005, while Andre was born in 2007. Both grew up in California and became baseball players.
Lucas graduated from Santa Margarita Catholic High School in 2025. He hoped to play baseball at the University of Michigan. Later reports linked him to Orange Coast College. He also played for the Southern California Renegades.
Andre also attended Santa Margarita Catholic High School. He committed to playing baseball at Oklahoma State University. Mel helped coach both sons while they were growing up. During The Golden Bachelor, the brothers spoke about how their father supported their sports activities.
The Golden Bachelor
Mel Owens became the lead of The Golden Bachelor Season 2 in 2025. The show premiered on September 24, 2025. Before it aired, Mel faced criticism for saying he preferred women aged 45 to 60.
Fabiana Pimentel also received media attention after Mel joined the show. When the Daily Mail asked about his TV role, she wished him luck but said she thought it would go badly. She also said she did not want to be involved.
The season ended on November 12, 2025. Mel chose Peg Munson, a retired firefighter and bomb technician. He gave her a ring but did not propose marriage. According to reports from September 2026, Mel and Peg were still together.
Is Fabiana Pimentel Dating Anyone Now?
Fabiana’s love life received attention after her divorce. During The Golden Bachelor, Mel said his former wife had found someone else before their marriage ended.
Mel said their separation was painful. However, he also said he did not want to stop another person from finding happiness. Fabiana has not publicly confirmed his account of why their marriage ended.
As of October 2026, Fabiana has not publicly confirmed a new partner or marriage. Her current relationship status is unknown.
Net Worth
Fabiana has worked in marketing, law office management, home organization, and hospitality. Her past jobs include roles at VARIG Airlines and NBO Law. She also co-founded Final Touch Organizing.
In May 2023, she joined Preferred Hotels & Resorts as Director of Experiences, according to reports. However, her salary and business earnings have not been publicly confirmed.
Her divorce settlement also involved a reported payment of $980,000. This amount does not represent her personal wealth. Her exact net worth in 2026 is not publicly.
Interesting Facts
- Fabiana Pimentel was born in Brazil and grew up in Rio de Janeiro.
- Her mother, Fabia, owned an antique and home décor store.
- She earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Faculdade da Cidade.
- She completed a master’s degree in marketing at UCLA in 2003.
- She worked in marketing at VARIG Airlines from 1998 to 2002.
- She worked as an assistant manager at NBO Law from 2007 to 2016.
- She married former NFL player Mel Owens on May 17, 2002.
- She has two sons, Lucas and Andre, who both play baseball.
- She co-founded Final Touch Organizing with Karine Schaefer in 2020.
- Her home organizing business used Feng Shui ideas.
- She joined Preferred Hotels & Resorts in May 2023, according to reports.
- She enjoys travel, photography, art, and wellness practices.
- Her divorce from Mel Owens was finalized in December 2024.
- Her former husband starred in The Golden Bachelor Season 2 in 2025.
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Jeremiah Peniata Fatu is best known as the son of WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi and the brother of Jimmy Uso, Jey Uso, and Solo Sikoa. He belongs to the famous Anoaʻi wrestling family, which includes Roman Reigns and several other WWE stars. He has also been linked to a 1997 episode of WWE Monday Night Raw.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jeremiah Peniata Fatu |
| Known For | Being Rikishi’s son and The Usos’ brother |
| Reported Date of Birth | August 30, 1986 |
| Reported Age | 40 years (October 2026) |
| Reported Birthplace | California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Family Heritage | Samoan |
| Father | Solofa Fatu Jr. (Rikishi) |
| Mother | Talisua Fuavai-Fatu |
| Famous Brothers | Jimmy Uso, Jey Uso, Solo Sikoa |
| Other Reported Siblings | Thamiko Fatu, Samson Fatu, Thavana Monalisa Fatu |
| Extended Family | Anoaʻi wrestling family |
| Famous Relatives | Roman Reigns, Yokozuna, Umaga |
| WWE Connection | Reported Monday Night Raw appearance in 1997 |
Jeremiah Peniata Fatu’s Age
Jeremiah’s reported birth date is August 30, 1986. Based on this date, he turned 40 on August 30, 2026. He was reportedly born in California, but his exact birth city is not confirmed.
He is American and comes from a family with Samoan roots. His father was born in San Francisco, California, and became one of the best-known Samoan wrestlers in WWE.
His older twin brothers, Jimmy and Jey Uso, were born on August 22, 1985. They are about one year older than Jeremiah.
There is little reliable information about Jeremiah’s education. His school name, college studies, and early interests have not been publicly confirmed.
Childhood
Jeremiah grew up in a family with strong ties to professional wrestling. His father, Rikishi, worked in the wrestling industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Several other family members were also professional wrestlers.
During the 1990s, Rikishi performed under different ring names, including Fatu. He later became famous under the name Rikishi. His wrestling career brought him success in WWE.
Jeremiah’s older brothers, Jimmy and Jey Uso, played football before entering professional wrestling. They later trained as wrestlers and began their careers in 2008.
There are few public details about Jeremiah’s childhood. His school years, education, and early sports activities are not well documented.
Who Are Jeremiah Peniata Fatu’s Parents?
Jeremiah’s parents are Solofa Fatu Jr., known as Rikishi, and Talisua Fuavai-Fatu. His father is a former WWE wrestler and Hall of Famer. His mother is known mainly through her family connection to Rikishi.
Rikishi was born on October 11, 1965, in San Francisco, California. He began wrestling in the 1980s and later became a major WWE star. He performed under several names, including Fatu and Rikishi.
During his WWE career, Rikishi won the WWF Intercontinental Championship and several tag team titles. In 2015, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. His sons Jimmy and Jey Uso introduced him at the ceremony.
Rikishi also became involved in training new wrestlers. He helped establish the KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy, where young wrestlers could learn professional wrestling skills.
Jeremiah’s mother, Talisua Fuavai-Fatu, has Samoan family roots. Reports state that she married Rikishi on July 20, 1985. Public information about her education and work is limited.
Rikishi and Talisua have a large family. Several of their sons have worked in professional wrestling, while others have taken part in sports and other activities.
Brothers and Sister
Jeremiah’s known siblings include Jimmy Uso, Jey Uso, Solo Sikoa, Thamiko Fatu, Samson Fatu, and Thavana Monalisa Fatu. Several of them have followed careers in wrestling and sports.
Jimmy and Jey Uso were born on August 22, 1985. Their real names are Jonathan Solofa Fatu and Joshua Samuel Fatu. They began wrestling professionally in 2008 and joined WWE in 2010.
The twins became famous as The Usos. They won several WWE tag team titles and held the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship for 622 days. In 2023, they competed in the main event of the first night of WrestleMania 39.
Another brother is Solo Sikoa, whose real name is Joseph Yokozuna Fatu. He was born on March 18, 1993. He began wrestling in 2018 and signed with WWE in 2021. He later joined The Bloodline alongside members of the Anoaʻi family.
Thamiko Tu’uhetoka Fatu is also a professional wrestler. He made his wrestling debut in 2023. He has competed at independent wrestling events and trained through his father’s wrestling academy.
Samson Fatu is another younger brother. He has played American football at the high school level. His sports background differs from that of his older brothers, who became professional wrestlers.
Jeremiah also has a sister named Thavana Monalisa Fatu. Some published profiles describe her as a model, fashion designer, actress, and songwriter. However, details about her work have not been widely documented.
Jimmy, Jey, Solo, and Thamiko have worked in professional wrestling. Samson has been involved in football. Jeremiah’s own career has not been clearly established in reliable public records.
Jeremiah Peniata Fatu and the Anoaʻi Wrestling Family
Jeremiah belongs to the famous Anoaʻi family. This Samoan family has been part of professional wrestling since the 1960s. Many family members have worked in WWE and won major titles. His father, Rikishi, is one of the family’s best-known wrestlers.
Afa and Sika Anoaʻi were famous wrestlers known as The Wild Samoans. They won several tag team titles and helped build the family’s name in wrestling. Other family members later joined WWE.
The family also includes Yokozuna, Umaga, and Roman Reigns. Yokozuna won the WWF Championship twice. Umaga became known for his powerful wrestling style. Roman Reigns later became one of WWE’s biggest stars. Jeremiah is also related to Zilla Fatu, the son of Umaga.
The Anoaʻi family plays a major role in WWE’s Bloodline story. The group has included Roman Reigns, Jimmy Uso, Jey Uso, and Solo Sikoa. The story uses real family ties, but the fights and events are planned parts of WWE shows.
Jeremiah has not been a regular member of The Bloodline on WWE television. His connection to the group comes through his brothers and other relatives.
Jeremiah Peniata Fatu’s WWE Appearance
Jeremiah was reportedly seen on WWE Monday Night Raw in December 1997. He was 11 years old at the time. The appearance is mentioned in published accounts of Rikishi’s family.
IMDb also lists Jeremiah Fatu in connection with WWE Monday Night Raw. However, the available information does not clearly explain his role in the reported episode.
His father was already working in professional wrestling during that time. Rikishi had performed under different names, including Fatu and The Sultan.
Appearing on a wrestling show does not mean someone worked as a professional wrestler. Jeremiah’s reported appearance does not confirm that he took part in a match.
There are no clear public records of regular WWE appearances or professional matches involving Jeremiah after 1997.
Is Jeremiah Peniata Fatu a Professional Wrestler?
Jeremiah Peniata Fatu comes from a family of famous wrestlers. His father and several brothers have worked in WWE. However, there is no clear proof that Jeremiah has had a professional wrestling career.
Some online biographies call him a wrestler. Others say his profession is unknown. No reliable records show a long wrestling career, title wins, or regular matches under his name.
His brothers have well-known wrestling careers. Jimmy and Jey Uso began wrestling in 2008 and later won several WWE tag team titles. Solo Sikoa started wrestling in 2018 and joined WWE in 2021.
Jeremiah’s reported appearance on Monday Night Raw in 1997 remains his main known link to WWE television.
As of October 2026, his status as a professional wrestler has not been confirmed.
Career and Work
Jeremiah’s current job is not publicly known. Some websites describe him as a businessman, actor, or wrestler. However, there is little reliable information to support these claims.
No confirmed business names or major acting roles are publicly linked to him. His IMDb listing connects him to WWE Monday Night Raw, but it does not prove that he worked as a professional actor.
His father, Rikishi, has worked as a wrestler, trainer, and promoter. Jimmy and Jey Uso have spent years in WWE. Solo Sikoa and Thamiko Fatu have also worked as professional wrestlers.
It is not known whether Jeremiah works in business, wrestling, or another field. His present job and source of income have not been confirmed.
There is also no reliable public information about his net worth.
Jeremiah’s Relationships and Children
There is little confirmed information about Jeremiah’s personal life. Public sources do not clearly describe his current relationship or marital status.
One family profile names Kimmay Lea’ea as a former partner and states that they have two children. However, this information has not been independently confirmed.
The names and birth dates of his reported children are not well documented. It is also not known whether Jeremiah is currently married.
Some family photographs include Jeremiah and his relatives, but they do not provide clear details about his relationships.
As of 2026, reliable information about his partner, children, and marital status remains limited.
Private Life
Jeremiah has made fewer known public appearances than his brothers. Jimmy and Jey Uso regularly appear on WWE television. Solo Sikoa has also appeared in major WWE events and storylines.
Some family articles and social media posts have shown Jeremiah with his brothers. These photographs confirm his family connections but reveal little about his work.
His reported appearance on Monday Night Raw in 1997 is one of his few known television credits. There are no clear records of a later WWE career or regular television appearances.
Interesting Facts
- Jeremiah is the son of WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi, whose real name is Solofa Fatu Jr.
- His older twin brothers, Jimmy Uso and Jey Uso, were born on August 22, 1985.
- His younger brother, Solo Sikoa, joined WWE in 2021.
- Jeremiah belongs to the famous Samoan Anoaʻi wrestling family.
- His family includes wrestling stars Roman Reigns, Yokozuna, and Umaga.
- His father, Rikishi, was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2015.
- His brothers Jimmy and Jey Uso introduced their father at the Hall of Fame ceremony.
- Jeremiah has been linked to a 1997 episode of WWE Monday Night Raw.
- Unlike his brothers, Jeremiah has no well-documented professional wrestling career.
- His brother Thamiko Fatu made his professional wrestling debut in 2023.
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