Who Is Vanna White Married To? A Look Into the Iconic Host’s Personal Life
Is Vanna White Currently Married?
Vanna White, a household name thanks to her long-standing role on Wheel of Fortune, has been a constant figure on television since 1982. While her professional life is well-documented, her personal life often piques curiosity. As of 2024, Vanna White is not officially married. However, she is in a long-term relationship with businessman John Donaldson, whom she has been dating since 2012.
Their relationship has stood the test of time, with White frequently expressing her happiness and contentment with Donaldson in interviews. Despite persistent rumors and fan speculation, the couple has not tied the knot. Vanna herself has clarified on multiple occasions that she and Donaldson are happy as they are, without feeling the pressure to get married.
Vanna White’s Relationship History
Over the years, Vanna White’s love life has attracted significant attention, particularly due to her high-profile relationships. Before her current partnership, Vanna was married to George Santo Pietro, a restaurateur and real estate developer. The couple married in 1990 and had two children together, Nikko and Gigi Santo Pietro, before divorcing in 2002.
Prior to her marriage, Vanna was engaged to actor John Gibson, but tragically, Gibson passed away in a plane crash in 1986, a devastating moment in Vanna’s life. This loss deeply affected her, and she spoke about it candidly, stating, “I have faith, and I believe things happen for a reason, even if we don’t understand them.”
Vanna White’s Marriage to George Santo Pietro
George Santo Pietro and Vanna White met in the late 1980s through mutual friends. Their relationship quickly blossomed, leading to their marriage in December 1990. The couple enjoyed a high-profile union, often appearing together at Hollywood events. They welcomed two children, Nikko and Gigi Santo Pietro, during their marriage.
Despite their glamorous life, their marriage eventually unraveled, with the couple divorcing amicably in 2002. While neither has publicly discussed the specific reasons for their divorce, sources close to them indicate that the couple simply grew apart after years of balancing their busy professional and personal lives.
Post-Divorce Relationships: Vanna White and John Donaldson
After her divorce from George Santo Pietro, Vanna White took time before entering another serious relationship. It wasn’t until 2012 that she began dating John Donaldson, a contractor and businessman. Their relationship is marked by privacy, though they occasionally appear together in public.
In an interview, Vanna described John as her “life partner” and mentioned that they are incredibly happy together. When asked if marriage was in the cards, she simply stated, “We are committed to each other, and that’s what matters most.” The couple’s relationship is based on mutual respect and love, allowing them to thrive without the need for formal marriage.
Vanna White and George Santo Pietro’s Children
Nikko Santo Pietro, the eldest of Vanna White’s children, was born in 1994. He has lived a relatively private life, attending the University of Oregon and focusing on his personal ventures outside the public spotlight.
Gigi Santo Pietro, born in 1997, has similarly kept a low profile, focusing on her education and family life. Vanna often shares photos of her children on social media, giving fans a glimpse into her role as a mother. She is known to be a doting parent, often stating that her children are her biggest accomplishment.
Vanna White’s Life Outside Marriage
Despite not being married to John Donaldson, Vanna White continues to thrive personally and professionally. Balancing her role as the co-host of Wheel of Fortune and her private life, she often credits her strong family bonds for her happiness.
White has managed to maintain a positive public image throughout her career, even amidst the ups and downs of her relationships. She once said, “Family always comes first,” a sentiment that has helped her maintain a steady balance between her personal life and public persona.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times has Vanna White been married?
Vanna White has been married once, to George Santo Pietro from 1990 to 2002.
Who is Vanna White’s ex-husband?
Vanna White’s ex-husband is George Santo Pietro, a restaurateur and real estate developer.
Is Vanna White married to John Donaldson?
No, Vanna White is not married to John Donaldson, but they have been in a committed relationship since 2012.
Why did Vanna White and George Santo Pietro divorce?
While the exact reasons for their divorce are private, it is believed that their busy careers and personal differences contributed to their separation.
Timeline of Vanna White’s Marriages and Relationships
| Year | Relationship | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1980s | John Gibson | Engaged to actor John Gibson, who tragically died in a plane crash in 1986. |
| 1990-2002 | George Santo Pietro | Married and had two children before divorcing in 2002. |
| 2012-present | John Donaldson | In a committed relationship but not married. |
Did Vanna White Ever Date Her Co-Host, Pat Sajak?
Despite longstanding rumors, Vanna White and Pat Sajak have never been romantically involved. They share a close friendship, which has often been mistaken for something more. White has addressed these rumors multiple times, explaining that their relationship is purely platonic.
Vanna White’s Most Memorable Quotes
- “I have faith, and I believe things happen for a reason, even if we don’t understand them.” – Interview with People Magazine
- “We are committed to each other, and that’s what matters most.” – Talking about John Donaldson in an interview with Closer Weekly
- “Family always comes first.” – Vanna White on balancing her career and personal life
References:
people.com/vanna-white-life-partner-john-donaldson
closerweekly.com/vanna-white-relationship
wikipedia.org/vanna_white
instagram.com/vanna-white-official
