Valerie Bertinelli Is “Learning To Trust Again” With New Boyfriend Mike Goodnough
Valerie Bertinelli, the beloved actress and celebrity chef, recently shared an emotional update on Instagram about her healing journey from a past toxic relationship. The 64-year-old cookbook author opened up about her struggles and triumphs, emphasizing her newfound ability to trust again.
In late 2022, Valerie embarked on a path of self-discovery and healing, following her divorce from ex-husband Tom Vitale in November of that year. Reflecting on her past, she said, “I wanted my life to be different than it was and I wanted to be a whole and emotionally healthy human being.”
This decision led her to begin dating writer Mike Goodnough, with whom she shares a deep and loving connection.
Valerie’s candid post highlighted a recent hurdle in her journey: rebuilding trust. “I have heard that being in a relationship after healing from a toxic one will bring out some triggers you didn’t know were still buried,” she wrote.
“And ain’t that the truth. Learning to trust again after having that trust destroyed is not an easy thing. Those demons want to protect you from being vulnerable and emotionally exposed ever again,” she continued.
Despite these challenges, Valerie praised Mike for his unwavering support and kindness. “This man is worth fighting the rest of my demons for. He is the most thoughtful, kind, gentle, intelligent, funny, and grateful man I’ve ever met,” she said, adding a playful compliment about his looks: “And look at him. 🥰 I mean…”
Valerie’s previous marriages, to financial planner Tom Vitale from 2011 to 2022 and to Van Halen frontman Eddie Van Halen from 1981 to 2007, have been publicly discussed, with Valerie often sharing insights from her experiences. Eddie Van Halen passed away in 2020 after battling throat cancer.
In March 2023, Valerie shared wisdom on her Instagram Story, advising her followers to heal their way to indifference from toxic relationships. “When something is toxic, and it’s only ever been that…Do your best to heal your way to indifference. You do not have to forgive to move on🤍,” she wrote.
Valerie’s new relationship, which started online, has brought her immense joy. In an April cover story with PEOPLE, she expressed her surprise at falling in love again. “I’m in love,” she said, adding, “It’s a seesaw of emotions because I was adamant I was never falling in love again.”
