Valerie Bertinelli, a beloved actress known for her roles in “One Day at a Time” and “Hot in Cleveland,” recently took to Instagram to express her heartfelt gratitude and admiration for her ex-boyfriend, Mike Goodnough. Despite their breakup three months prior, Valerie chose to honor the one-year anniversary of their first in-person meeting. In her touching post, she acknowledged the profound impact Mike has had on her life, revealing how their time together has irrevocably changed her for the better. Valerie’s words were not just a reflection on their romance but also a celebration of the personal growth and healing she experienced during their relationship. She described herself as “becoming a much stronger and more benevolent human” because of Mike, emphasizing the lasting positive effects he has had on her life.
From the moment Valerie met Mike, she was captivated by his writing, which she described as heartfelt, authentic, smart, funny, sensitive, and deeply caring. She confessed to being a “big fan” of his work, praising the way he weaves words together in a way that is “ridiculously beautiful.” Valerie didn’t stop at his writing; she also lauded Mike’s personality, noting that he is just as kind, genuine, and witty in person as he is on paper. Her admiration for him shines through in her words, as she expressed feeling “so lucky” to have had the opportunity to get to know him and “soak up his insights.” Their deep, meaningful conversations, she explained, have broaden her perspective on life, guiding her to explore new ideas and places she hadn’t considered before.
One of the most poignant aspects of Valerie’s Instagram post was her openness about how Mike helped her heal from old childhood wounds. She shared that he played a significant role in her journey toward healing, offering her the tools and support she needed to confront and process pain she had carried for years. This aspect of their relationship was clearly transformative for her, and she expressed gratitude for his presence in her life during such a vulnerable time. Valerie’s willingness to share this part of her story speaks volumes about the trust and connection they built during their time together.
Valerie’s heartfelt tribute to Mike was not just about their romantic relationship; it was also an invitation to her followers to experience the beauty of his work. She encouraged her fans to subscribe to Mike’s Substack, “Hoarse Whisperings,” describing it as a “beautiful gift” that offers a glimpse into what it’s like to be in his orbit. She even playfully suggested that subscribing would allow them to “pull up a chair and sit at his big table in community and conversation,” capturing the warm, inclusive spirit of his writing and personality. This gesture further highlighted her admiration for him and her desire to share his talents with others.
Valerie and Mike’s relationship, though it has come to an end, clearly left an indelible mark on her life. The two started dating in January 2024 and went Instagram-official just a few months later. Despite their eventual breakup in November of the same year, Valerie made it clear that Mike will always hold a special place in her heart. Her message was one of love, gratitude, and closure, as she wrote, “Thank you, Mike, we may no longer be a couple, but you’ll always hold a very special place in my heart. Love you.” This heartfelt farewell underscored the depth of their connection and her appreciation for the time they shared.
Valerie’s reflections on her relationship with Mike offer a glimpse into her journey of self-discovery and growth. Having navigated the challenges of her past marriages—including her high-profile union with rocker Eddie Van Halen and her more recent divorce from Tom Vitale, whom she has openly criticized for his treatment of her—Valerie has emerged stronger and more resilient. Her willingness to embrace new relationships and opportunities for growth, even in the face of heartbreak, speaks to her courage and openness to life’s experiences. As she continues to navigate her personal and professional journey, it’s clear that Valerie Bertinelli remains a woman of grace, vulnerability, and strength, inspiring her fans with her authenticity and resilience.
