Valerie Bertinelli seems to have found a vibrant new chapter in her life, one that comes with a renewed sense of happiness and companionship. At 63, Valerie’s candidness about her journey is both refreshing and endearing, offering a glimpse into a life marked by significant moments of joy and heartbreak. Her recent Instagram announcement reflects a blend of both casual revelation and deep emotional resonance, signaling a fresh start in her personal life.
Valerie’s newfound love story has captured the attention of her fans and followers. The buzz began when she posted a selfie on Instagram, adorning it with lyrics from Taylor Swift’s song “So High School”—a choice that seemed both playful and revealing. Captioning it with “I’ll drink what you think and I’m high from smokin’ your jokes all damn night,” Valerie hinted at a joyful and spirited connection with her new boyfriend, writer Mike Goodnough, famously known by his social media moniker the Hoarse Whisperer.
The journey to this point in Valerie’s life has been marked by both losses and the joys of past relationships. Two years have passed since she parted ways with her ex-husband Tom Vitale, and it’s been four years since the death of her first husband, the legendary rock musician Eddie Van Halen. With each phase, Valerie has shown resilience and honesty, weaving memories into the narrative of her life while preparing to welcome new ones.
Valerie’s relationship with Mike Goodnough began in the virtual realm, a testament to how connections can spark in the most unexpected places. Valerie started following Mike on social media back in 2016 or 2017, a small act that would later cultivate into something significant. When Mike reciprocated in 2018, it set a quiet foundation that would later flourish into a romantic relationship, post-Valerie’s divorce in 2022.
Describing Goodnough, Valerie noted, “He’s a really super funny, incredibly talented writer,” a statement that speaks volumes about the warmth and admiration she feels towards him. This sentiment of appreciation and mutual respect is often a cherished aspect in any relationship, laying the groundwork for something genuine and lasting.
Reflecting on her past, Valerie opened up in her new cookbook “Indulge” about her marriage with Eddie Van Halen. She shared a vulnerable insight, saying, “Ed and I never stopped loving each other, even though we got divorced.” Her honest and heart-touching words hint at a deep connection that endures past separation, capturing the complexity and bittersweet nature of their bond. Valerie poignantly added, “Who knows, if not for cancer, we might have had a second wind,” illustrating a wistful but tender glance back at what was.
Today, Valerie is embracing the present with enthusiasm. Her recent comment to PEOPLE Magazine, “I’m in love,” shows a thrilled acceptance of love’s unexpected arrival. She admitted, “I swear I would never fall in love again, therefore it’s a seesaw of feelings.” This honest admission reveals the interplay of emotions, from skepticism to warmth, that accompanies a new romance, especially after previous heartaches.
Valerie Bertinelli’s evolving story brings a comforting affirmation that love and happiness can find you at any stage, reshaping life with its unpredictable yet delightful presence. Her journey from solitude, surrounded by her beloved pets, towards a shared path with a new partner, highlights human resilience. As Valerie steps into this new phase, the support and joy she receives from her fans and loved ones only amplify her happiness. Her tale is a beacon of hope that life’s chapters, whether humbling or uplifting, are best embraced with an open heart and a hopeful spirit.
