Jenny McCarthy's public love life spans over three decades, moving from high-profile modeling days to Hollywood romances, two marriages, and a long-term partnership that remains in the spotlight. Understanding the full scope of her romantic history requires looking closely at how her relationships evolved through major life milestones, including motherhood and career shifts.
The primary keyword Jenny McCarthy relationships tracks a journey defined by distinct chapters: an early marriage to actor and director John Mallory Asher, a high-profile five-year romance with comedian Jim Carrey, and a lasting marriage to New Kids on the Block star Donnie Wahlberg. Each phase brought intense media attention and shaped her personal path.
Early Romance and First Marriage to John Mallory Asher
Before her marriages captured tabloid headlines, McCarthy dated manager Ray Manzella through much of the 1990s. That relationship ended in 1998, paving the way for her romance with actor and director John Mallory Asher.
The pair met on the set of the film Diamonds. Their connection moved quickly. They got engaged in January 1999 and married on September 11, 1999.
- The Wedding: A traditional ceremony held in September 1999.
- Starting a Family: They welcomed their son, Evan Joseph Asher, in May 2002.
- The Turning Point: In May 2005, Evan received an autism diagnosis, which placed immense strain on the marriage.
- The Split: McCarthy and Asher divorced in September 2005, ending their six-year marriage.
The High-Profile Years With Jim Carrey
Later in 2005, McCarthy crossed paths with comedic actor Jim Carrey at David Spade's birthday party. They began dating in December 2005, though they kept the romance private until making their public debut at an L.A. Radiohead concert in June 2006.
This pairing became one of Hollywood's most talked-about relationships. They lived together for several years, and Carrey actively helped care for Evan. Despite public speculation, the couple never married. McCarthy often stated that they didn't need a legal contract to validate their bond.
The relationship ended in April 2010. Both used social media to announce the mutual split, noting that they would remain on good terms and that McCarthy would stay involved in the life of Carrey's daughter. Following this breakup, McCarthy had a brief high-profile relationship with NFL star Brian Urlacher in 2012.
Finding Lasting Love With Donnie Wahlberg
McCarthy's romantic trajectory shifted permanently when she met singer and actor Donnie Wahlberg. Wahlberg, a founding member of New Kids on the Block and star of CBS, appeared as a guest on The Jenny McCarthy Show in July 2013.
Their chemistry was immediate. They made their red-carpet debut shortly after, and Wahlberg proposed live on television in April 2014 with a striking yellow sapphire ring.
- The Wedding: They married on August 31, 2014, at the Hotel Baker in St. Charles, Illinois.
- Reality TV: Their wedding and early married life were featured on the A&E reality series Donnie Loves Jenny.
- Blended Family: Wahlberg embraced his role as a stepfather to Evan, while McCarthy connected with Wahlberg's sons from a previous marriage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Jenny McCarthy ever married to Jim Carrey?
No. Despite dating for five years from 2005 to 2010, McCarthy and Carrey never married. Both partners publicly expressed that marriage wasn't necessary for their commitment.
How many children does Jenny McCarthy have?
McCarthy has one son, Evan Joseph Asher, born in 2002 from her first marriage to John Mallory Asher.
When did Jenny McCarthy and Donnie Wahlberg get married?
They tied the knot on August 31, 2014, during an intimate ceremony in St. Charles, Illinois, which was later showcased on television.
Did Jenny McCarthy date any athletes?
Yes. Prior to her relationship with Donnie Wahlberg, she dated former Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher for a few months in 2012.
