Valerie Bertinelli and Mike Goodnough’s romance, which started quietly, became a focal point for fans after their breakup. While the couple kept much of their relationship private, they have both opened up about their split, offering fans insights into their personal journey and emotional growth.

Valerie Bertinelli Confirms Breakup and Reflects on the Relationship

Valerie Bertinelli first confirmed her relationship with Mike Goodnough in March 2024, sharing that she was dating someone “very special.” However, it wasn’t until April 2024 that Goodnough’s identity was publicly revealed. The couple’s relationship, though brief, was closely followed by fans, and in November 2024, reports surfaced that they had split. Despite the public interest, Bertinelli chose not to comment until March 2025, when she took to social media to reflect on her relationship with Goodnough.

In her Instagram Story, Bertinelli shared a heartfelt message, writing, “I look at life with a different perspective because of my experiences and conversations with him. He’s been a big part of helping me heal from some old childhood wounds I never knew what to do with.” She also expressed gratitude for the time they shared, emphasizing how their relationship positively impacted her personal growth.

Mike Goodnough Speaks Out: ‘I Care About Valerie’

While Bertinelli was processing the end of their relationship, Mike Goodnough also addressed the breakup in a series of social media posts in March 2025. He wrote, “I care about Valerie. I have love for her and I always will. I want her to be happy.” Goodnough reminisced about the joy he felt during their time together, particularly recalling their shared experiences at the launch of Bertinelli’s book.

He continued, “Exactly one year ago, Valerie and I were together for the launch of her book. It was one of the most joyful weeks of my life. Taking true deep joy from Valerie’s happiness and success was the easiest thing in the world.” Despite their breakup, Goodnough made it clear that his feelings for Bertinelli remained positive and that he genuinely wanted her to be happy.

Addressing the Alleged Social Media Feud

Following speculation about their online behavior, Goodnough addressed rumors of a social media feud. In his March 2025 post, he denied any indirect communication through Instagram, saying, “I am not communicating with Valerie via my posts. I am not engaging with the things she posts.”

He further explained that Bertinelli’s posts seemed to be responses to things not directed at her, adding, “Valerie has been prone to lapsing into a place where she has been playing a one-woman tennis match thinking there is someone on the other side of the net.” Goodnough clarified that despite the optics, there was no “back-and-forth” between them.

Goodnough Reflects on the Relationship: ‘It’s Time to Move On’

In April 2025, Goodnough posted a follow-up message, expressing regret over his previous comments. He wrote, “I regret having posted it. I wish I hadn’t. The issue addressed was real, but my post made it worse rather than better.” Goodnough acknowledged the complexity of their relationship and the emotional pain of their breakup, sharing that it had been the “most painful experience of my life.”

He explained, “The dissolution of our relationship was by far the most painful experience of my life. It has been so acutely agonizing, it has entirely changed the scale of how much heartbreak can hurt.” Despite the heartbreak, Goodnough emphasized that it was time to move on, concluding, “I’ve cried about this enough. It’s time to move on.”

Who Ended the Relationship? Goodnough Responds

In a final twist, after declaring that he was moving on from the relationship, Goodnough returned to social media in April 2025 to clarify who ended the relationship. Responding to a comment on Threads, he alleged that he was the one who “ended the relationship,” not Bertinelli, as some fans had speculated.

Valerie Bertinelli and Mike Goodnough’s Journey: A Complicated, Yet Loving Breakup

Although Valerie Bertinelli and Mike Goodnough’s relationship ended, both have shown maturity and respect in discussing their split. Their emotional openness, particularly regarding personal growth and healing, has resonated with many fans. Despite the heartache, they have both moved forward, focusing on the future while expressing gratitude for their time together.