Vanna White, the beloved co-host of Wheel of Fortune, recently opened up about her long-term relationship with John Donaldson, which has flourished over thirteen years without the formalities of marriage. In a candid interview with E! News, White expressed contentment in their partnership, noting, “We’re very happy. We’ve been together for a long time, and we are just happy the way it is.”
While discussions regarding marriage have lingered among fans, White shared her view on the subject, remarking that they feel married in their hearts without needing a legal document. “Maybe people want to see us get married. When you’ve been with someone for so long, you kind of feel like you’re already married. You don’t have to have that piece of paper,” she explained.
White reminisced about first meeting Donaldson, a real estate developer, in 2012 at a barbecue hosted by a mutual friend. “I remember looking at him and thinking, ‘He’s really cute.’ We ended up talking for a long time that night,” she recalled, establishing the foundation of their harmonious relationship. She emphasized their compatibility by saying, “It just works. He lets me be me, I let him be him. There is no drama.”
The duo prefers to keep their relationship low-key, occasionally sharing glimpses of their life together at charity events and family gatherings. They maintain traditions, especially during holidays, with annual trips to Hawaii for Christmas and special family customs that include wrapping presents and filling stockings. “Christmas is special for everyone, especially for family, and I don’t care what age you are, it’s fun,” White stated, highlighting the joy these moments bring.
In addition to her personal life, White’s professional journey continues to thrive as she adapts to new on-screen dynamics alongside Ryan Seacrest, who took over hosting duties after Pat Sajak’s departure in 2024. White reassured fans about their chemistry, saying, “We get along great. I think our chemistry is good. He’s such a nice guy and so professional and hardworking, and we gel.”
Despite contemplating retirement following Sajak’s exit, White concluded that she wasn’t ready to step back from the spotlight, securing her position on the show through 2026. Reflecting on her relationship with Donaldson, she offered sage advice on love and companionship. “Don’t enter a relationship out of loneliness; if you’re unhappy, you’ll still feel lonely. Be true to yourself, and don’t let anyone alter who you are,” she shared.
Vanna White’s story is one of lasting love and professional resilience, demonstrating both the joy of companionship and the excitement of ongoing success in the entertainment industry. As she continues to grace the Wheel of Fortune stage, her journey with Donaldson remains a testament to the beauty of nurturing a meaningful bond, regardless of societal expectations.