Updated: January 22, 2026
Vanna White, the timeless co-host of Wheel of Fortune, has captured hearts for decades with her grace, charm, and iconic letter-turning role. While her professional life shines brightly, fans often wonder about her personal journey, especially her first (and only long-term) marriage. Vanna was married to George Santo Pietro from 1990 to 2002—a union that brought her two children and many cherished memories, even if it ultimately ended in divorce.
In this post, we dive into the details of Vanna White’s first husband, their life together, family highlights, and what came after. Let’s explore this chapter of her story.
Table of Contents
Who Is George Santo Pietro?
George Santo Pietro is a multifaceted businessman best known in Hollywood circles as Vanna White’s ex-husband. Born around 1946 (making him roughly 80 today), he built a successful career in the restaurant industry before branching into real estate and even some behind-the-scenes TV production work.
- He owned popular Los Angeles-area restaurants, including one that became a go-to spot for celebrities.
- Later, he ventured into real estate development and had credits on films and series like Interstellar and True Blood as a production professional.
- Despite his connections to the entertainment world, George has always preferred a low-key life away from the spotlight.
Vanna and George met through mutual friends in the late 1980s. Their chemistry was instant, leading to a romantic relationship that quickly deepened.
The Marriage and Wedding Details
Vanna White and George Santo Pietro tied the knot on New Year’s Eve 1990 in a beautiful ceremony in Aspen, Colorado. It marked a fresh start for Vanna after the tragic loss of her fiancé, actor John Gibson, who died in a 1986 plane crash.
The couple’s marriage lasted 12 years, spanning some of Vanna’s most prominent years on Wheel of Fortune. They built a family life together in California, balancing George’s business ventures with Vanna’s demanding TV schedule.
- Wedding highlights: A private, elegant event surrounded by close friends and family.
- Shared challenges: The couple faced ups and downs, including rumors in the late 1990s about infidelity (though never fully confirmed) and the natural strains of a high-profile relationship.
- They separated in November 2001, with Vanna filing for divorce on May 15, 2002, citing irreconcilable differences. The split was described as amicable, and they have maintained a cordial co-parenting relationship ever since.
Children and Family Life
One of the greatest joys from Vanna and George’s marriage is their two children, who remain close to both parents.
- Nicholas “Nikko” Santo Pietro (born June 10, 1994): Now 31, Nikko pursued agriculture studies at Oregon State University and works as a real estate agent. He’s often shared sweet moments with his mom on social media, including cooking sessions that went viral.
- Giovanna “Gigi” Santo Pietro (born July 1, 1997): At 28, Gigi has carved her own path with interests in tattoos, photography, and creative pursuits. Both kids grew up in a supportive environment despite the divorce.
Vanna has spoken openly about motherhood being her top priority, and the family bond has stayed strong. Interestingly, even after the split, George remained a fan of Wheel of Fortune, often watching the show with the kids.
Here’s a quick overview table of key details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| First Husband | George Santo Pietro |
| Marriage Date | December 31, 1990 |
| Divorce Date | May 15, 2002 (finalized November 2002) |
| Duration | 12 years |
| Children | Nikko (b. 1994), Gigi (b. 1997) |
| George’s Profession | Restaurateur, real estate developer, TV production |
| Reason for Divorce | Irreconcilable differences (amicable) |
Life After the Divorce
Since 2002, Vanna has focused on her career, family, and personal happiness. She was engaged to businessman Michael Kaye from 2004 to 2006 but didn’t remarry then. In recent years, she built a solid relationship with contractor John Donaldson, whom she met in 2012. In a sweet update, they surprised fans by officially marrying in January 2026 after over a decade together.
Vanna has said she feels “practically married” to John for years, and the wedding made it official. She continues to thrive on Wheel of Fortune (now alongside Ryan Seacrest) and enjoys a close, loving bond with her kids.
Conclusion
Vanna White’s first husband, George Santo Pietro, played a significant role in her life, giving her a loving family and over a decade of partnership. Though the marriage ended, it left behind two wonderful children and lessons in resilience and grace. Today, Vanna embraces her next chapter with joy, proving that life’s wheel keeps turning—often toward happiness.
Whether you’re a longtime Wheel of Fortune fan or just curious about celebrity stories, Vanna’s journey reminds us that strength and positivity shine through every twist and turn. What’s your favorite memory of Vanna on the show? Share in the comments!