Valerie Bertinelli Says Her 2 Divorces Were ‘Completely Different’
Valerie Bertinelli Reflects on Her Two Divorces
Valerie Bertinelli, the beloved actress and celebrity chef, recently shared candid reflections on her two divorces, emphasizing how each was a unique experience. Known for her roles on popular television shows and her successful culinary career, Bertinelli has also been open about her personal life, including her marriages and separations. Speaking during a segment on The Drew Barrymore Show, she discussed the emotional journey of divorce and the different ways people cope with the end of a marriage.
The conversation was sparked by a discussion about the emerging trend of “divorce rings” — jewelry that symbolizes the end of a marriage and the beginning of a new chapter. Bertinelli’s insights shed light on how divorce can be both painful and empowering, depending on the circumstances and personal growth involved.
Two Divorces, Two Different Journeys
Valerie Bertinelli has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Eddie Van Halen, the legendary guitarist of the rock band Van Halen. They were married from 1981 until their divorce in 2007. Despite the end of their marriage, Bertinelli has spoken fondly of the love they shared and the family they built together, including their son Wolfgang Van Halen.
Her second marriage was to Tom Vitale, a financial planner, which lasted from 2011 until their separation in 2021 and eventual divorce in 2022. Bertinelli has described these two divorces as “completely different” experiences, highlighting that no two separations are the same.
During the interview, she explained that while her first divorce was deeply painful, it was also marked by a sense of closure and reflection on the love that once existed. In contrast, her second divorce involved a different emotional process, one that included selling her wedding ring back to the jeweler and choosing to celebrate her new beginning with a symbolic bracelet.
The Emotional Impact and Empowerment After Divorce
Divorce often carries a stigma, with many people feeling shame or failure when a marriage ends. However, Bertinelli and Drew Barrymore both emphasized the importance of reframing divorce as a form of empowerment rather than defeat. The idea of “divorce rings” or celebratory jewelry represents this shift in perspective — transforming symbols of past relationships into tokens of strength and resilience.
Bertinelli’s choice to replace her wedding ring with an “evil eye” bracelet is a perfect example of this mindset. The bracelet symbolizes protection and positive energy, marking a new chapter free from pain and full of hope. This act of reclaiming personal power after divorce resonates with many who seek to find peace and confidence in their post-marriage lives.
Moving On and Letting Go
In addition to her reflections on divorce rings, Bertinelli has also shared moments of letting go of physical reminders of her past marriages. For instance, she posted about parting with shoes she wore to her wedding with Tom Vitale and some Tiffany rings that held difficult memories. These gestures symbolize the emotional process of moving forward and releasing attachments to the past.
Bertinelli’s openness about these experiences offers encouragement to others navigating similar journeys. She acknowledges that while divorce can be one of life’s most challenging events, it also provides an opportunity for growth, healing, and rediscovery.
Conclusion
Valerie Bertinelli’s reflections on her two divorces reveal that every separation is unique, with its own emotional landscape and lessons. Her story highlights the importance of embracing change, finding empowerment in difficult times, and moving forward with hope. If you are going through a divorce or major life transition, remember that healing is possible, and new beginnings await.
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