
Teddi Mellencamp is exploring new romance amid her battle brain tumors. The former 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' star candidly shares her experience on dating post-cancer surgery.
- Mar 22, 2025
AceShowbiz - Teddi Mellencamp is back on the dating scene. Just over a month after revealing that doctors discovered "multiple" tumors in her brain, some of which were removed in an emergency surgery, Teddi Mellencamp opened up about her recent dating experiences.
During the March 21 episode of the "Diamonds in the Rough" podcast with Erika Jayne, "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" alum shared, "[I've] already been on more dates with new people."
Teddi detailed how she managed to go on a second date with the same person she met before her surgery, stating, "He's really cute and nice."
This brave move into the dating scene comes after she announced her divorce from husband Edwin Arroyave in November. The pair share three children: Slate, 12, Cruz, 10, and Dove, 4.
In February, Mellencamp had surgery to remove tumors from her brain following severe headaches. Later, she disclosed on Instagram that more tumors were discovered in her brain and lungs, all linked to her skin cancer. She had at least 17 cancerous spots removed.
Amidst her health struggles, Mellencamp began radiation treatment in March. She's even participated in an equestrian competition, exemplifying her determination to maintain an active lifestyle.
Yet, with such medical challenges, dating raises pertinent questions. Erika Jayne humorously queried Mellencamp on the podcast, "Do I need to get on the phone with this fool?"
Teddi revealed that her new beau, who is 35 and works in events, initially had no knowledge of her reality TV fame, creating a refreshingly normal dynamic. She appreciated his kindness and caregiving nature, describing he was there with her through hospital visits, giving her "true hugs" and "butterflies."
Despite her ongoing medical treatments, Mellencamp's dating life seems promising. She described the dates as going "really well" and remains optimistic about the potential future, "So we'll see. Who knows?"
Mellencamp kept the identity of her date a secret for now, but she recently hung out with newly-single "Southern Charm" star, Shep Rose. "We met in Encino, a magical village in the valley," he revealed on Instagram.
"As soon as i saw teddi and gave her a hug we argued about where to sit," Rose recounted their outing while sharing a picture of them hugging. "She then rather bluntly announced 'i almost died and i still might - make a decision for once Shepard.' We then proceeded to just laugh. We love dark humor and Teddi is the queen of it."
"She has a keen interest and derives much pleasure in my misadventures. Which i think means that she loves me," he concluded, fondly referring to Mellencamp as his "hometown friend."
Mellencamp was quick to respond, "Thankfully we were never romantically involved. I don't think I could pull off a shark tooth necklace."
Besides her friends, the support from her ex-husband Arroyave is also evident as they continue to co-parent and even attended a workout class together recently. He expressed his gratitude for the support they've received, "Teddi is beyond grateful for the outpouring of love while she continues to recover."
Mellencamp's story is a powerful reminder that life doesn't stop because of health struggles, and finding joy and love amidst adversity can offer profound strength and resilience.