Vanna White Announces Marriage to Longtime Partner John Donaldson
Vanna White, the beloved co-host of the iconic television game show Wheel of Fortune, has officially tied the knot with her longtime partner, John Donaldson. The couple, who have been together for approximately fourteen years, made the joyous announcement on social media this Wednesday, sharing a glimpse into their private ceremony and celebrating this new chapter in their lives.
Surprise Wedding Announcement on Social Media
In a heartfelt post that quickly captured the attention of fans worldwide, Vanna White revealed the happy news with a charming photograph from their wedding day. "Surprise! We got married!" she wrote, expressing her excitement and love. The message continued, "John and I have been in love for more than a decade, and a little while back, we wanted to make it official in a private ceremony. We're excited to share this new, joyful chapter in our lives with all of you! Love, Vanna and John." While the exact date of their marriage remains undisclosed, the announcement has sparked widespread celebration among her admirers and the entertainment community.
How Vanna White Met John Donaldson
The love story between Vanna White and John Donaldson began in 2012, when they were introduced by a mutual friend at one of her casual barbecues. Reflecting on their first encounter in a 2019 interview with PEOPLE, White recalled, "I remember looking at him and thinking, 'He's really cute.'" She added that their connection was immediate, as "We ended up talking for a long time that night," setting the foundation for a deep and enduring relationship that has now culminated in marriage.
Who is John Donaldson?
John Donaldson is a respected professional in the construction and real estate industries, known for his expertise in restoration and property development. He operates his own business, JDC Construction and Development Group, which focuses on high-quality projects in these sectors. Hailing from Santa Monica, California, Donaldson is believed to have been born and raised in the area, where he continues to reside with Vanna White, blending their lives in a shared home environment.
Age and Background of John Donaldson
While there is no officially confirmed report regarding John Donaldson's age, estimates suggest he is likely between 59 to 60 years old as of early 2026. According to an exclusive interview with Hollywood Life in 2023, Donaldson was 57 at that time, indicating he is now entering his sixties. This age range aligns with his established career and life experiences, contributing to the stability and maturity of his relationship with Vanna White.
Why the Couple Waited to Marry
In previous discussions about their relationship, Vanna White shared insights into why she and John Donaldson did not rush into marriage despite being together for over a decade. Speaking to People.com in 2023, she explained, "I mean, we've been together 12 years, and I feel like we are married." She elaborated on their comfort level, stating, "Do we have to get married? No, because we feel comfortable in our relationship. You know what I mean? I know that he's the one. He knows I'm the one. We don't really talk about it, but you never know. I mean, I guess we could, but in my eyes and his eyes, we are married." This perspective highlights the strength of their bond, which ultimately led them to formalize their union when the time felt right.
Vanna White's Perspective on John Donaldson
Vanna White has often praised John Donaldson, describing him as the "male version" of herself due to their striking similarities. About three years ago, she shared, "We really are very similar. We get along so well. He's easy. He's easy, and he lets me be me, and I let him be him," emphasizing the mutual respect and harmony that define their partnership. This compatibility has been a cornerstone of their long-lasting relationship, now celebrated through marriage.
Previous Marriages and Family Life
Both Vanna White and John Donaldson have experienced marriage before. White was previously married to restaurateur George Santo Pietro from 1990 to 2002, and from that union, she has two children: Nicholas 'Nikko' Santo Pietro, aged 31, and Giovanna 'Gigi' Santo Pietro, aged 28. Details about Donaldson's previous marriage are not widely available online, but this shared history of past relationships adds depth to their current commitment, as they embark on this new journey together with blended experiences and family ties.
