Vanna White, a beloved icon from Wheel of Fortune, has captivated audiences for decades. While her professional life has been in the spotlight, her personal life, particularly her relationship with John Donaldson, has garnered significant interest. This article delves into the details of Vanna White and John Donaldson’s decade-long romance, exploring who John Donaldson is and what makes their relationship thrive.
White’s relationship with Donaldson began after her amicable separation from George Santo Pietro in 2002. Introduced by a mutual friend at a barbecue in 2012, Vanna White and John Donaldson’s connection was immediate. “I remember looking at him and thinking, ‘He’s really cute,'” White shared with People Magazine, recalling their first meeting. That initial attraction blossomed into a lasting partnership, built on mutual respect and understanding.
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John Donaldson is far from a Hollywood figure; he is a successful businessman in the construction industry. A California native, born and raised in Santa Monica, Donaldson’s passion for construction began early in his life. He started his career as a laborer in the San Fernando Valley, working his way up from packing lumber to carpentry. This hands-on experience provided him with a deep understanding of the industry, paving the way for his entrepreneurial ventures.
Donaldson’s dedication and expertise led him to work on luxury homes in the Hollywood Hills, even for notable figures like Richard Dreyfuss and Dan Akroyd. Eventually, he obtained his contractor’s license and founded his own company, JDC Construction + Development Group. Based in Southern California and established in 1987, JDC specializes in the restoration and rehabilitation of multifamily properties and new ground-up developments. As president and building developer, Donaldson emphasizes trust, professionalism, and a tradesman’s insight in his company’s approach.
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Donaldson takes immense pride in his restoration projects, particularly those resulting from natural disasters like the 1994 Northridge earthquake. His company website highlights his satisfaction in revitalizing older buildings, blending construction expertise with creative conceptualization in collaboration with architects. This dedication to rebuilding and improving communities reflects his strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
For Vanna White, finding love with John Donaldson has brought a sense of stability and joy. Describing their relationship, she simply states, “It just works. He lets me be me, I let him be him. There is no drama.” This easygoing dynamic is a cornerstone of their successful partnership. They have made numerous public appearances together, from red carpet events like the Cyrsalis Butterfly Ball and the Brent Shapiro Foundation fundraiser to charity galas such as the Race to Erase MS Gala, showcasing their united front and mutual support.
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Vanna White’s past includes a marriage to restaurateur George Santo Pietro, with whom she has two children, Nicholas and Giovanna “Gigi” Santo Pietro. While their marriage ended in 2002, Vanna found love again with Donaldson a decade later. She openly expresses her affection for Donaldson on social media, often sharing photos featuring him alongside her children, portraying him as an integral part of her family. In a heartwarming Instagram post from December 2024, she shared a holiday picture with Gigi, Donaldson, and Nikko, captioned “Happy Holidays,” underscoring their close-knit bond.
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In conclusion, Vanna White’s relationship with John Donaldson is a testament to finding love and companionship later in life. John Donaldson is not just Vanna White’s boyfriend; he is a supportive partner and a cherished member of her family. Their enduring romance, characterized by ease and mutual respect, provides a heartwarming glimpse into Vanna White’s life beyond the Wheel of Fortune stage, revealing a fulfilling and balanced personal life alongside her successful career.
