Vanna White Ties The Knot In Surprise Ceremony With Longtime Love John Donaldson

  • By Miles
  • Jan. 23, 2026, 9 a.m.

A Decade in the Making: Love Blooms in the City of Angels

Vanna White, the beloved co-host of "Wheel of Fortune," has taken a spin in the romance department, surprising fans with a heartfelt revelation. After 14 years of togetherness, Vanna and her longtime partner, John Donaldson, decided to make it official. The couple shared their exciting news on social media with a charming photo of Vanna in a stunning sleeveless white gown, being swept off her feet by John. "Surprise! We got married!" Vanna joyfully announced. "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!"

From Santa Monica Vibes to Wedding Bliss

The love story began in 2012 at an LA-style barbecue hosted by Vanna herself. The couple kept their relationship low-key, often expressing contentment without the formalities of marriage. Vanna once told People magazine, "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." Their bond was built on similar values and mutual respect. "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," Vanna explained, showcasing the laid-back, easygoing style that is quintessentially Californian.

Meet John Donaldson: The Man Behind the Ring

For those wondering about the man who won Vanna's heart, John Donaldson is no stranger to the California lifestyle. As the president and developer of JDC Construction + Development Group, a company based in the San Fernando Valley, John has made a name for himself in the construction world. His company has a reputation for tackling projects, especially in the wake of California's natural disasters, such as the notorious 1994 Northridge earthquake. With expertise in developing luxury homes for Hollywood's elite, including stars like Richard Dreyfuss and Dan Aykroyd, John is well-versed in the high-profile lifestyle of the City of Angels.

This surprise wedding marks a new chapter for Vanna, who was previously married to restaurateur George Santo Pietro. They share two adult children, Nicholas "Nikko" and Giovanna "GiGi." With a love story that mirrors the sun-kissed dreams of California, Vanna and John are ready to embark on their next adventure together, hand in hand.

Miles
Author: Miles
Miles

Miles

Miles Ritter is the calm in the chaos — a journalist with a clean-cut look and a taste for dirty stories. Whether it’s a leaked tape or a legal meltdown, Miles breaks it down with clarity, context, and a bit of snark.