Donnie Wahlberg's romantic journey spans decades in the public eye, shifting from his early pop idol days with New Kids on the Block to his long-term marriage with television personality Jenny McCarthy. While tabloids often focus on the glamorous side of his Hollywood life, his relationship history involves a balance of high-profile partnerships, a foundational first marriage, and a blended family dynamic.
Understanding his personal life means looking past the red carpets to examine how his past experiences shaped his decade-long marriage to McCarthy.
The First Marriage: Kimberly Fey
Long before his current relationship, Wahlberg was married to sound engineer and musician Kimberly Fey. The two met in the early 1990s when Fey worked with music projects connected to the Wahlberg family. Their relationship grew steadily over several years before they officially tied the knot in August 1999.
During their nearly decade-long marriage, they welcomed two sons, Xavier Alexander and Elijah Hendrix. Wahlberg's demanding schedule as an actor—transitioning from film roles to television mainstays like Blue Bloods—put strain on the household. In August 2008, Fey filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, and the legal proceedings were finalized in 2010. Despite the split, both parents maintained a shared focus on raising their sons.
Finding Stability With Jenny McCarthy
The turning point in Wahlberg's romantic life arrived in July 2013 when he met actress and host Jenny McCarthy on an episode of Watch What Happens Live. Chemistry between the two was immediate, leading to a quick courtship. They bonded over shared Midwest roots, similar senses of humor, and past relationship struggles that taught them what they truly needed in a partner.
In August 2014, the couple married in a ceremony at Hotel Baker in St. Charles, Illinois. Unlike many fast-paced Hollywood romances, their connection proved enduring. They celebrated their tenth wedding anniversary in 2024, frequently sharing insights into how they maintain a healthy partnership amidst demanding entertainment careers.
Navigating a Blended Family
A central pillar of Wahlberg and McCarthy's life together is their blended family. Wahlberg brought his two sons, Xavier and Elijah, into the dynamic, while McCarthy brought her son, Evan, from a previous marriage.
Balancing parenting roles across different households required patience and open communication. Both public figures have been vocal about prioritizing their children's well-being above their public schedules. They often structure their work commitments to ensure they spend significant downtime together at their homes in Illinois and New York.
Keys to Longevity in the Public Eye
Sustaining a high-profile marriage for over a decade is rare in the entertainment industry. Wahlberg and McCarthy attribute their success to specific daily practices:
- Daily Recommitment: They focus on intentionally choosing each other as they change and grow over the years.
- Transparent Communication: Both have acknowledged that addressing past personal trauma openly prevents old patterns from affecting their marriage.
- Prioritizing Humor: Their shared comedic background keeps daily stress manageable.
- Unplugged Time: They intentionally carve out periods away from social media and cameras to focus entirely on family life.
For more details on his television career, you can explore the CBS official site or read background coverage on People.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times has Donnie Wahlberg been married?
He has been married twice. His first marriage was to Kimberly Fey from 1999 to 2010, and his second marriage is to Jenny McCarthy, whom he wed in 2014.
How many children does Donnie Wahlberg have?
He has two biological sons, Xavier and Elijah, with his first wife, Kimberly Fey. Through his marriage to Jenny McCarthy, he is also a stepfather to McCarthy's son, Evan.
How did Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy meet?
The couple met in July 2013 while appearing as guests on Bravo's Watch What Happens Live hosted by Andy Cohen. They began dating shortly after the appearance.
Are Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy still together?
Yes. The couple celebrated their tenth wedding anniversary in 2024 and continue to live together, frequently collaborating on television and social media projects.
