Teddi Mellencamp Opens Up About New Romance with Older Man Amid Cancer Battle

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Teddi Mellencamp, the former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, has revealed that she is dating an older man she calls 'Derek' while continuing her battle with stage 4 cancer. Mellencamp, 44, shared that their relationship comes with its own set of challenges due to both of them having children at home, but she appreciates that her new partner 'makes me laugh' and has been supportive during her ongoing immunotherapy treatments.

Why it matters

Mellencamp's openness about her new relationship and cancer journey provides a personal look at the complexities of dating and maintaining relationships while facing a serious health crisis. Her story highlights the importance of finding support and joy during difficult times, even as she navigates the challenges of blending families and managing her treatment.

The details

Mellencamp, who shares three children with her ex-husband Edwin Arroyave, said she is 'taking it slow' with her new partner, who is older than her. She explained that it's been difficult to progress their relationship due to both of them having kids at home. However, Mellencamp emphasized that her new partner 'is pretty good about it' and 'a relatively positive and logical person in general.' What she appreciates most is that 'he makes me laugh.' Mellencamp also reflected on her previous marriage, wishing she had been more open about her needs during her cancer treatment, rather than just wanting someone 'to come lay in bed with me and watch a movie.' Despite the divorce, she said there is no animosity between her and Arroyave, who was the one who took her to the hospital before her brain cancer diagnosis.

• Mellencamp filed for divorce from Arroyave in November 2024, months before learning that her melanoma had metastasized to her brain and lungs.
• Mellencamp was first diagnosed with stage 2 melanoma in 2022 and underwent 17 surgeries before the cancer spread to her brain and lungs in April 2025.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Mellencamp continues to undergo regular immunotherapy treatments for her stage 4 cancer, and doctors have told her she has 'no trace of cancer' despite still being considered stage 4.