Donnie Wahlberg, a multifaceted personality known for his roles in New Kids on the Block, Blue Bloods, and various films, has navigated his romantic life in the public eye, marked by significant long-term relationships that have shaped his personal journey. His romantic history, while not extensively publicized in its earliest phases, has seen two prominent marriages, each bringing unique dynamics and public attention.
Wahlberg's first significant public relationship began in the early 1990s with Kimberly Fey. The couple reportedly met around 1991, during the nascent stages of Wahlberg's rise to fame with New Kids on the Block. Their relationship blossomed away from the intense media glare that would later follow his career.
After several years of dating, Donnie Wahlberg and Kimberly Fey tied the knot in August 1999. Their marriage brought two sons into the world: Xavier Alexander Wahlberg, born in March 1993, and Elijah Hendrix Wahlberg, born in August 2001. The family maintained a relatively private life during their marriage, despite Wahlberg's continued presence in the entertainment industry.
However, after nearly a decade together, the couple's relationship faced challenges. Wahlberg and Fey separated in January 2008, and both parties filed for divorce in August 2008, citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce proceedings were finalized in September 2010, bringing an official end to their marriage of nine years. Public records indicated that Kimberly Fey sought spousal support and primary physical custody of their children, with Wahlberg receiving visitation rights.
Following his divorce, Wahlberg's romantic life saw a brief, publicly noted encounter. In 2010, rumors circulated about a connection between Wahlberg and singer Aubrey O'Day, particularly after they collaborated on a single. However, this appeared to be a short-lived or unconfirmed romantic link, with O'Day reportedly denying a deep connection initially.
A new chapter in Wahlberg's love life began when he met television personality and actress Jenny McCarthy. Their initial encounter was in 2012 when they both appeared on Andy Cohen's Watch What Happens Live. While there was an immediate spark, Wahlberg did not pursue it at that moment.
The two reconnected in March 2013 when Wahlberg was a guest on McCarthy's talk show. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable and quickly led to a real-life romance. By August 2013, they were officially dating and made their first public red-carpet appearance as a couple, signaling the start of a high-profile relationship.
The relationship progressed rapidly, and in April 2014, Donnie Wahlberg proposed to Jenny McCarthy. Just a few months later, on August 31, 2014, the couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony at the historic Hotel Baker in St. Charles, Illinois. Their wedding and early married life were featured on their A&E reality series, Donnie Loves Jenny, offering fans an intimate look into their relationship.
Their marriage brought together a blended family, with McCarthy's son, Evan, from her previous marriage, joining Wahlberg's two sons, Xavier and Elijah. The couple has often spoken publicly about the joys and challenges of blending their families, emphasizing mutual respect and love.
Donnie and Jenny are known for their public displays of affection and commitment, including annual vow renewals. Wahlberg has often expressed his deep love and appreciation for McCarthy, frequently sharing heartfelt messages on social media. > "To be blessed with a partner whose goal is to make sure that I love myself more and more each day — is to be truly blessed," he once wrote, reflecting on their bond.
Their relationship continues to be a prominent aspect of their public personas, marked by strong mutual support, shared humor, and a clear dedication to their family life. Despite the demands of their respective careers, Wahlberg and McCarthy have maintained a strong and visible partnership, often appearing together at events and sharing glimpses of their life with fans, solidifying their status as one of Hollywood's enduring couples.