Vanna White Husband: 2025 Update on John Donaldson

Vanna White has been lighting up our television screens on Wheel of Fortune for more than 40 years, turning letters and sharing warm smiles that make everyone feel at home. At 68 years old, she continues to shine alongside new co-host Ryan Seacrest, and fans often wonder about the person who makes her smile off-camera.

The simple truth is that Vanna is not married today. She has been in a happy, committed relationship with contractor John Donaldson since 2012—that is now over 13 years of steady love. While there have been whispers about wedding plans over the years, including some talk of a small ceremony in Hawaii, nothing has changed on that front as of late 2025. Vanna has shared that she feels married in her heart, and the couple is content just as they are.

Who Is Vanna White’s Husband Right Now?

Vanna White does not have a husband at this moment. She has only been married once in her life, and that chapter ended more than two decades ago. Her longtime partner is John Donaldson, a successful building contractor and developer based in California. The two are very much together and going strong, often spending quiet time traveling or enjoying family moments at home.

Vanna has described their bond as easy and drama-free, saying John lets her be herself and she does the same for him. They support each other through busy work schedules, and John has been a steady presence as Vanna adjusted to changes on the show after Pat Sajak’s retirement.

Meet John Donaldson: Vanna’s Longtime Partner

John Donaldson is the president and founder of JDC Construction + Development Group, a company he started years ago that focuses on restoring and building multifamily properties, especially in California. He grew up in Santa Monica and earned his contractor’s license after working his way up in the construction. Friends describe him as kind, hardworking, and down-to-earth—the perfect match for Vanna’s warm personality.

The couple met in 2012 at a casual barbecue hosted by mutual friends. Vanna later recalled spotting him across the yard and thinking he looked really nice. They started chatting and quickly realized how much they had in common. Since then, John has blended beautifully into Vanna’s life. He joins her for holidays, trips to Hawaii (one of their favorite spots), and even occasional red-carpet events. Vanna occasionally shares sweet photos of them on social media, like sunset selfies or family gatherings, always with heartfelt captions about gratitude and love.

As for age, John Donaldson is in his late 60s, just a few years younger than Vanna, who turned 68 in February 2025. They share similar outlooks on life, enjoying simple things like good food, travel, and time with loved ones.

How Many Times Has Vanna White Been Married?

Vanna has been married only once. Her marriage was to restaurateur and real estate developer George Santo Pietro, from 1990 to 2002. That 12-year union brought her two wonderful children and many happy memories, even though it eventually came to an amicable end. After the divorce, Vanna focused on raising her kids and her career.

She was engaged twice more—once in the 1980s to actor and dancer John Gibson (who tragically passed away in a plane crash in 1986) and again from 2004 to 2006 to businessman Michael Kaye—but neither led to marriage. Vanna has been open about learning from past heartaches and feeling grateful for the peaceful relationship she has now.

Vanna’s Ex-Husband: George Santo Pietro

George Santo Pietro is a well-known restaurateur who owned popular spots like the Hollywood restaurant Santopietro’s and later Sushi-Ko. He also worked in film production and real estate. Vanna and George met in the late 1980s and married in a beautiful ceremony in Aspen, Colorado, in December 1990. They welcomed son Nicholas (called Nikko) in 1994 and daughter Giovanna (called Gigi) in 1997.

The couple built a loving home, but after more than a decade together, they chose to part ways in 2002. Both have spoken kindly about each other since, always putting their children first. George went on to remarry and have more kids, while staying involved in his businesses. Today, his ex-wife’s success and the strong co-parenting relationship they maintain.

Vanna White’s Children: Nikko and Gigi

Vanna is a devoted mom to two grown children from her marriage to George Santo Pietro. Her son, Nicholas “Nikko” Santo Pietro, born in 1994, is now 31. He works in real estate, following a creative path that includes photography and even some tattoo artistry— he gave his mom her first tattoo, a small red heart, earlier this year. Nikko keeps a low profile but has gone viral a few times for his good looks and sweet moments cooking with Vanna on the show.

Her daughter, Giovanna “Gigi” Santo Pietro, born in 1997, is 28. Gigi studied photography and design at New York University and enjoys a creative life filled with art, travel, and family time. She often joins her mom for girls’ trips and shares a close bond with Vanna.

Both kids get along wonderfully with John Donaldson, and the four of them celebrate holidays and special occasions together. Vanna lights up when she talks about her children, calling them her greatest joy.

A Bit About Vanna’s Health and Life Today

Fans sometimes worry after hearing rumors, but Vanna is healthy and active. She stays fit with activities like tennis and crochet (she even has her own yarn line!). There are no major health issues reported—she’s simply enjoying her 68th year with energy and grace.

Her net worth is estimated around $85 million, earned mostly from her long, successful run on the game show plus smart real estate choices and endorsements. Vanna lives comfortably in Los Angeles but keeps things grounded, focusing on family and friends.

Why Vanna and John Haven’t Married (Yet)

Over the years, there have been sweet stories about possible wedding plans—maybe a small beach ceremony or something intimate. Vanna has always been honest: she loves John deeply and feels committed, but a piece of paper isn’t necessary for them.

In interviews, she’s said things like, “In my eyes and his eyes, we are married,” and that their relationship “just works” because they’re so similar. As recently as this fall, sources close to the couple say Vanna’s busy schedule with filming blocks keeps pushing any big plans aside, but there’s no rush—they’re happy exactly as they are.

Conclusion

Vanna White’s story reminds us that love doesn’t always look the way we expect. After heartbreak, a joyful family years, and learning what truly matters, she found a partner in John Donaldson who brings peace and laughter every day. Whether or not they ever say “I do” on paper, their 13-year partnership is a beautiful example of commitment, respect, and choosing happiness.

Vanna continues to inspire millions with her kindness on screen, and off screen, she’s living proof that the best chapters can come when we least expect them. Here’s to Vanna—may her puzzle board (and her heart) always stay full of good things.