Valerie Bertinelli recently shared her journey of healing and learning to trust again in a new relationship with writer Mike Goodnough, following the end of her 'toxic' marriage to businessman Tom Vitale. The former Food Network star, aged 64, expressed her desire for emotional health and authenticity after finalizing her divorce in 2022.
Bertinelli revealed that she had initially believed she had conquered her demons but found herself facing triggers from her past toxic relationship while being with Goodnough. She candidly referred to Vitale as 'The Narcissist' and reflected on tolerating intolerable behavior for too long.
Prior to her divorce, Bertinelli had expressed doubts about trusting anyone again and had even contemplated a life of solitude. She opened up about the emotional abuse she endured, acknowledging the impact it had on her self-perception.
Despite the challenges of rebuilding trust, Bertinelli emphasized Goodnough's positive qualities, describing him as thoughtful, kind, intelligent, funny, and grateful. She humorously praised his good looks and expressed her willingness to confront her inner demons for the sake of their relationship.
Bertinelli and Goodnough's relationship blossomed after years of messaging on Instagram, marking a new chapter for the actress who was previously married to musician Eddie Van Halen until 2007. She faced the loss of Van Halen in 2020, further shaping her journey towards healing and finding love again.
