Vanna White Stuns Fans With Secret Wedding Reveal

Wedding bells have rung for one of America’s most beloved television personalities. On January 21, 2026, Vanna White, the iconic co-host of ABC’s "Wheel of Fortune," surprised fans and friends alike by announcing her marriage to longtime partner John Donaldson in a private ceremony. The news, shared via Instagram and Facebook, was met with a wave of congratulations from celebrities, colleagues, and viewers who have followed White’s journey for decades.

White, 68, posted a joyful message alongside a series of touching photos: “Surprise! We got married! 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.” The images included White in a wedding dress, Donaldson carrying her in a classic bridal pose, and the couple holding hands poolside—moments that capture the warmth and intimacy of their relationship.

Reactions poured in from across the entertainment world. Maggie Sajak, daughter of longtime "Wheel of Fortune" host Pat Sajak, offered heartfelt congratulations, as did Ryan Seacrest, White’s current co-host. The official "Wheel of Fortune" social media account chimed in with celebratory emojis, and White’s son, Nikko Santo Pietro, shared his excitement on Instagram, writing, “Congrats mom and John!!”

For White, this marriage marks a new chapter in a life already filled with public milestones and personal triumphs. She has been the face of "Wheel of Fortune" since 1982, first alongside Pat Sajak until his retirement in 2024, and now sharing the stage with Seacrest. Her presence on the show has become synonymous with American pop culture, and her story continues to evolve both on and off the screen.

White and Donaldson’s romance began in 2012, following her amicable split from ex-husband George Santo Pietro. As reported by The Economic Times and People magazine, their first encounter was at a barbecue hosted by White, where a mutual friend introduced them. White recalled thinking Donaldson was “really cute,” and the two quickly hit it off, spending much of the evening deep in conversation. “I remember looking at him and thinking, ‘He’s really cute,’” White told People. “We ended up talking for a long time that night.”

Over the years, the couple built a solid foundation, sharing holidays, family gatherings, and public events. Donaldson became a familiar presence in White’s life, often appearing in family holiday cards and supporting her at various functions. White’s children from her previous marriage—son Nikko and daughter Giovanna “Gigi” Santo Pietro—have embraced Donaldson as part of the family. Both Nikko and Gigi are now adults, and White frequently shares images of the close-knit group on social media.

Donaldson, meanwhile, brings his own impressive story to the partnership. Born and raised in Santa Monica, California, he began his career in construction as a laborer and carpenter. Through determination and skill, he advanced to head foreman before founding his own company, JDC Construction + Development Group. His firm specializes in restoration, rehabilitation, and development of multifamily properties, and he has overseen major projects, including the restoration of earthquake-damaged buildings. According to The Economic Times, while Donaldson’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, his business acumen and extensive experience suggest he is a financially successful partner alongside White.

White’s own career and financial standing are equally impressive. She reportedly earns about $10 million annually from "Wheel of Fortune," with an estimated net worth of $85 million as of 2026. In addition to her television work, White has authored a bestselling memoir, "Vanna Speaks," and promotes the Vanna’s Choice line of yarn, further expanding her brand and income streams. Her diverse ventures in crafting, real estate, and publishing have helped solidify her status as a multifaceted businesswoman.

The couple’s decision to marry was not the result of outside pressure, but rather a natural progression in a relationship that already felt complete. In a December 2025 interview with E! News, White explained, “We’re very happy. We’ve been together for a long time and we are just happy the way it is. Maybe people want to see us get married. When you’ve been with someone for so long, you kind of feel like you’re already married. You don’t have to have that piece of paper.” She echoed similar sentiments to People in 2023, stating, “I know that he’s the one. He knows I’m the one.”

Donaldson, who has no children from previous relationships, has integrated seamlessly into White’s family life. The couple do not have children together, but their bond with Nikko and Gigi is evident in the many images and anecdotes White shares online. Over the years, Donaldson has supported White and her children at both public events and private gatherings, helping to foster a warm, blended family environment while maintaining a preference for privacy.

Friends and fans have long admired the couple’s down-to-earth approach to love and life. White has described Donaldson as “the male version” of herself, noting their remarkable similarities and compatibility. “We are very similar,” she told People. “Our relationship just works.”

As the newlyweds embark on this next phase, their professional and personal lives continue to flourish. White remains a fixture on "Wheel of Fortune," now co-hosting with Ryan Seacrest, and her entrepreneurial pursuits show no sign of slowing down. Donaldson’s construction business, meanwhile, maintains a strong presence in California’s real estate market.

Fans and observers speculate that the couple’s combined assets and ongoing career successes could see their net worth grow in the years ahead. Yet, for White and Donaldson, the true value seems to lie in the happiness and stability they have found together—a sentiment echoed by the outpouring of support from their community.

In an era where celebrity relationships are often fleeting and fraught with drama, Vanna White and John Donaldson’s story stands out for its authenticity, patience, and quiet joy. Their journey from a chance meeting at a backyard barbecue to a private wedding celebrated with family and friends is a reminder that sometimes, the best love stories are the ones that unfold away from the spotlight, only to be shared when the moment feels just right.