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Vanna White’s Decade-Long Love Story: 7 Surprising Facts About Her Boyfriend, John Donaldson, And Why They’ll Never Marry

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Vanna White, the iconic co-host of *Wheel of Fortune*, is not single, despite often keeping her personal life private. As of December 2025, she is in a committed, long-term relationship with real estate developer John Donaldson, a romance that has quietly flourished for over a decade. The couple's stability and unique approach to commitment—choosing not to marry—makes their love story one of the most intriguing in Hollywood, a stark contrast to the dramatic spins and reveals on the game show she has co-hosted for over 40 years. The current status of their relationship is one of contentment and "practical marriage," as Vanna White herself has described it. With Vanna navigating major career changes, including the retirement of her long-time co-host Pat Sajak and the arrival of Ryan Seacrest, her steadfast bond with Donaldson remains a constant, supportive anchor in her life. This deep dive reveals everything you need to know about the man who captured the heart of the beloved television personality and the details of their enduring partnership.

Vanna White: A Complete Biography and Career Profile

To truly understand Vanna White’s current relationship, one must appreciate the life she has built both on and off the set of *Wheel of Fortune*.

  • Full Name: Vanna Marie Rosich (later changed to Vanna White, her stepfather's name)
  • Date of Birth: February 18, 1957
  • Place of Birth: Conway, South Carolina, U.S.
  • Career: Television Personality, Actress, Model
  • Known For: Co-host and letter-turner on the game show *Wheel of Fortune* (since 1982/1983).
  • Career Milestones:
    • Moved to Los Angeles in 1980 to pursue an acting career.
    • Began her role on *Wheel of Fortune* in December 1982, quickly becoming a pop culture icon.
    • Signed a contract extension to remain on *Wheel of Fortune* through the 2025–2026 season, continuing her role alongside new host Ryan Seacrest following Pat Sajak's retirement.
    • Her estimated net worth in 2025 is approximately $85 million.
  • Previous Marriage: George Santo Pietro (Restaurateur), married 1990, divorced 2002.
  • Children: Son Nicholas "Nikko" Santo Pietro, and daughter Giovanna "Gigi" Santo Pietro, both from her marriage to George Santo Pietro.

Meet John Donaldson: The Real Estate Mogul Who Stole Vanna’s Heart

Vanna White's current partner is the successful California-based businessman and real estate developer, John Donaldson. Their connection is rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a desire for a low-key life away from the Hollywood spotlight.

1. Donaldson is a Self-Made Real Estate Developer

John Donaldson is a prominent figure in the construction and development industry. He is the President of JDC Construction + Development Group, a company he founded in the early 1990s. His professional focus is reportedly on multifamily asset renovation and construction projects throughout California. This background as a self-made man from Santa Monica, California, provides a grounded contrast to Vanna’s high-profile television career.

2. Their Romance Began at a Backyard Barbecue in 2012

Unlike a dramatic Hollywood meet-cute, Vanna and John’s relationship started simply and organically. They were introduced by a mutual friend at a barbecue Vanna was hosting in 2012. This casual, relaxed setting laid the foundation for their enduring, comfortable partnership, which has now lasted for over 13 years.

3. He is Her Anchor During Major Career Transitions

The year 2024 marked a monumental shift for *Wheel of Fortune* with the retirement of Vanna’s co-star, Pat Sajak. Vanna herself had to negotiate a new contract to continue through the 2025–2026 season alongside new host Ryan Seacrest. During this period of intense professional scrutiny and change, Donaldson has been her steady support system. The stability of their personal life is a key factor in her decision to continue her role on the beloved game show.

4. They Are Happily "Practically Married" Without a License

Perhaps the most talked-about aspect of their relationship is their choice not to officially marry. Vanna White has openly discussed this, stating that she and John feel they are already "practically married." They have been together for so long and are so happy with their current arrangement that they don't see the need for a legal document to validate their commitment.

5. John Donaldson Blends Seamlessly with Vanna's Family

Donaldson is fully integrated into Vanna's family life, which includes her two adult children, Nikko and Gigi Santo Pietro, from her previous marriage to George Santo Pietro. The couple often enjoys family time together, and Vanna has shared that John gets along wonderfully with her kids, a crucial element for the television star.

The Future of Vanna White and John Donaldson’s Relationship

The couple's future seems to be one of continued contentment and shared experiences, focusing on travel, charity work, and enjoying their private life away from the cameras. Their relationship dynamic is a modern example of commitment, proving that a marriage license is not the only path to a lasting partnership.

6. They Share a Passion for Charity and Travel

Beyond their respective careers—Vanna on the set of *Celebrity Wheel of Fortune* and John managing his construction firm—the couple shares common interests. They are known to be passionate about charity work and frequently travel together. These shared hobbies are vital in maintaining the connection that has kept them together for more than a decade.

7. Their Commitment is Based on Freedom and Happiness

Vanna’s past experience with marriage, coupled with John’s own life perspective, has led them to value freedom within their partnership. She has stated that they are happy the way they are and that they don't "have to get married." This mature, non-traditional approach to commitment allows them to enjoy the benefits of a deeply loving and supportive relationship without the pressures or formalities of a legal union. Their story is a testament to finding a partner who supports your career and respects your life choices, making John Donaldson the ideal companion for the enduring Queen of the puzzle board.

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