Valerie Bertinelli, the celebrated actress and TV host, has always captured the hearts of audiences with her charm, warmth, and authenticity. While her professional accomplishments have earned her widespread fame, her personal life, particularly her relationships, have also sparked curiosity among her fans. One such relationship that garnered attention was her romance with Mike Goodnough, which began in early 2024. Their story wasn’t just another celebrity romance; it was rooted in deep connection, growth, and emotional intimacy. Here’s everything you need to know about Mike Goodnough and his relationship with Valerie Bertinelli.
Quick Bio
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Valerie Anne Bertinelli |
| Born | April 23, 1960 |
| Age | 65 years old |
| Height | 5’4″ (163 cm) |
| Occupation | Actress, TV Host, Author |
| Spouse(s) | Eddie Van Halen (1981–2007), Tom Vitale (2011–2022) |
| Children | Wolfgang Van Halen |
| Net Worth | $20 million (estimated) |
| Famous Role | Barbara Cooper in One Day at a Time |
| TV Show | Hot in Cleveland, Valerie’s Home Cooking |
| Book | Losing It: And Gaining My Life Back One Pound at a Time |
| Social Media | Active on Instagram, Twitter |
| Ethnicity | Italian, English |
Who is Mike Goodnough?
Mike Goodnough is a writer and lifestyle commentator who garnered attention through his Substack newsletter, Hoarse Whisperings. His writing explores themes of life, fatherhood, personal growth, and emotional well-being, drawing readers with his candid reflections and thoughtful insights. Mike’s journey into the public eye began with his passion for sharing personal stories and advice, which resonated deeply with many.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Mike worked in marketing and strategic communications, honing his skills in understanding and communicating complex ideas. However, his life took a turn after the birth of his son, when he decided to shift his focus toward creating a life that allowed him more time with his family. He left the corporate world to pursue writing and content creation, which eventually led him to his public persona today.
Mike’s writing is characterized by its authenticity and vulnerability, qualities that would later become integral to his relationship with Valerie Bertinelli. In his work, he speaks openly about the challenges of balancing family life, self-reflection, and personal growth — themes that have earned him a loyal following.
The Beginning of Their Relationship
Valerie Bertinelli and Mike Goodnough’s paths first crossed online. Their connection grew over time through mutual respect and shared values. Despite both being in the public eye, they managed to keep their relationship private for a while, gradually sharing glimpses of their bond through social media.
Their relationship became public in April 2024, when Valerie posted a photo of herself with Mike, signaling the start of their romantic journey. In a world where celebrity relationships often feel rushed or short-lived, their story unfolded slowly, marked by meaningful interactions and a focus on emotional growth rather than fleeting glamour.
For Valerie, the connection with Mike was unexpected. After a difficult period following her divorce from Tom Vitale in 2022, she hadn’t anticipated opening her heart to someone new. However, Mike’s presence in her life brought a sense of calm and fulfillment. They both found solace in each other’s company, with Mike’s grounded perspective and Valerie’s emotional openness creating a harmonious bond.
Their Time Together: A Journey of Growth and Reflection
Though their romance lasted less than a year, it left a profound impact on both Valerie and Mike. Their connection was defined not by public appearances but by their deep emotional bond. Both were dedicated to personal growth and understood the importance of learning from their experiences.
Throughout their time together, Valerie shared that Mike had helped her grow emotionally. She spoke about how he had a unique ability to connect with her on a level that she hadn’t experienced before. It wasn’t just about love in the traditional sense; it was about learning to appreciate each other’s personal journeys and the lessons they brought.
Their time together also shed light on their shared values. Both Valerie and Mike placed importance on authenticity, emotional intelligence, and the power of self-reflection. These values became the foundation of their relationship, setting them apart from many other celebrity couples who often find themselves in the spotlight for superficial reasons.
While their relationship was often depicted through photos and posts, it was clear that it was far more than just a public spectacle. They used their platform to share moments of joy, support, and mutual respect. Fans admired how the two seemed to genuinely care for each other, sharing snippets of their time together — from quiet evenings to celebrations of milestones — in a way that felt grounded and real.
The Breakup: A Personal and Emotional Goodbye
Despite their deep connection, Valerie and Mike’s relationship came to an end in November 2024. The breakup was a significant moment for both of them, and they each shared their own reflections on the relationship after it ended. For Valerie, the split marked a period of introspection. She spoke candidly about how the relationship had changed her for the better, expressing gratitude for the emotional growth she had experienced during their time together.
Mike, too, addressed the breakup, acknowledging that ending the relationship had been painful. He took responsibility for the decision to part ways and shared that, despite the split, he would always care deeply for Valerie. Both Valerie and Mike made it clear that their bond, though no longer romantic, remained rooted in respect and understanding.
Even in the aftermath of their relationship, both Valerie and Mike maintained an appreciation for the impact they had on each other’s lives. Their breakup wasn’t marked by bitterness but by a sense of mutual respect and the acknowledgment that their time together had been meaningful.
Valerie Bertinelli: A Snapshot of Her Life and Career
Valerie Bertinelli’s public life began in the 1970s when she starred in the beloved TV show One Day at a Time. Over the years, she became a household name, known for her roles in television, her appearances on cooking shows, and her candid reflections on life, family, and personal challenges.
Born in Wilmington, Delaware, on April 23, 1960, Valerie is currently 65 years old. She has been a beloved figure in Hollywood for decades, earning accolades for her acting and later becoming a successful television host on the Food Network. Her personal life has also been a subject of interest for many, particularly her relationships with Eddie Van Halen, her first husband, and Tom Vitale, her second husband.
Valerie’s son, Wolfgang Van Halen, also made waves in the music world as the bassist for the band Mammoth WVH. Her role as a mother has been central to her life, and she has frequently shared her experiences as a parent, both in the media and in her personal writing.
Valerie’s career is marked by a combination of acting, hosting, and writing. Her net worth is estimated to be around $20 million, thanks to her long-running career in television, her bestselling cookbooks, and her work as a host on the Food Network. She has also authored several books, including a memoir that explores her personal struggles and triumphs.
Mike Goodnough’s Life After Valerie
After his breakup with Valerie, Mike Goodnough returned to focusing on his work and his family. As a writer, he continued to contribute to his newsletter and engage with his audience on various platforms. While he keeps his personal life private, it’s clear that he remains committed to his family and his writing.
Mike’s presence on social media remains steady, with followers appreciating his thoughtful posts on a range of topics, from parenting to personal growth. His approach to life — one of reflection, authenticity, and emotional intelligence — continues to resonate with many.
It’s clear that Mike’s journey is far from over, and despite his breakup with Valerie, he continues to focus on the things that matter most to him: his family, his writing, and his personal growth.
Conclusion
Valerie Bertinelli’s relationship with Mike Goodnough was a testament to the power of authenticity and emotional connection. While their time together may have been short, it was meaningful and transformative for both of them. Their relationship wasn’t built on public displays of affection or the trappings of celebrity life; instead, it was grounded in genuine respect and mutual growth.
Their breakup, while a sad chapter, showed the world that even when love doesn’t last forever, it can still be deeply meaningful. Valerie and Mike’s story serves as a reminder that relationships, whether fleeting or lasting, can change us for the better — and sometimes, that change is all we need to move forward.
READ MORE: The Life and Legacy of Loujain Adada’s Husband: What You Need to Know
FAQs
Who is Mike Goodnough?
Mike Goodnough is a writer and lifestyle commentator, known for his Substack newsletter Hoarse Whisperings. He focuses on topics like fatherhood, personal growth, and emotional well-being.
When did Valerie Bertinelli start dating Mike Goodnough?
Valerie and Mike began their romantic relationship in early 2024, after forming a connection through mutual respect and shared values.
How long did Valerie and Mike date?
They dated for approximately 10 months before parting ways in November 2024, marking an emotional and introspective end to their relationship.
What’s Valerie Bertinelli’s net worth?
Valerie Bertinelli’s net worth is estimated at around $20 million, accumulated through her acting career, television hosting, and cookbook releases.
Why did Valerie and Mike break up?
The breakup was a personal decision made by Mike, who later expressed his regret but emphasized the growth and positive influence they both experienced during their time together.

