Valerie Bertinelli has officially confirmed her breakup from ex-boyfriend Mike Goodnough, four months after reports surfaced about their split.
The 64-year-old TV personality had been in a long-distance relationship with Mike, who is 10 years younger than her, with the two living on opposite coasts. Their relationship, which lasted less than a year, reportedly ended in November.
Breaking her silence on the split, Valerie shared a heartfelt message reflecting on their time together.
“I met @therealhoarse in person a year ago today, and I am irreversibly changed by him for the better. I know I am becoming a much stronger and more benevolent human for having met him and spent time with him,” she wrote.
She went on to praise Mike’s writing, describing it as “heartfelt, authentic, smart, funny, sensitive, caring, and from the soul.” She expressed deep admiration for his way with words, calling his writing “ridiculously beautiful.”
“I’m a big fan, can you tell?” she added, before sharing how fortunate she felt that the man behind the words was just as genuine, kind, and witty in person. “And wickedly witty. 😂”
he expressed her gratitude, saying, “I feel incredibly lucky to have had the chance to know him, to truly see him, and to absorb his insights. I cherish our long conversations, which have led me to fascinating and unexpected places I might never have explored on my own. Because of my experiences and discussions with him, I now see life from a different perspective, with greater understanding and care.”
She also acknowledged the profound impact he had on her healing journey. “He has played a significant role in helping me confront and heal from childhood wounds I never knew how to handle or even where to begin.”
Encouraging others to experience his work, she added, “I highly recommend subscribing to Hoarse Whisperings on Substack—you’ll receive the beautiful gift of being in his orbit. Or, as he might say, pulling up a chair and joining his big table in community and conversation.”
Valerie concluded with a heartfelt note: “Thank you, Mike. Though we are no longer a couple, you will always hold a very special place in my heart. Love you. ♥️”