Michael Vartan captured the attention of television and film audiences through roles in hit projects like Alias and Never Been Kissed. While his professional career brought him widespread recognition, his personal life and romantic history frequently attracted public interest. Unlike many public figures with sprawling romantic records, Vartan's dating history features a handful of long-term commitments and high-profile relationships.
The French-American actor has experienced both ends of the celebrity romance spectrum, ranging from a multi-year romance with a co-star to a quiet marriage that ultimately ended in divorce. Examining his relationship timeline reveals the realities behind his public partnerships, marriages, and current status.
Early Life and the Long-Term Relationship with Shannon Gleason
Before achieving mainstream television fame, Vartan spent a decade in a stable, low-profile relationship.
- The Timeline: Vartan was in a relationship with actress Shannon Gleason from 1988 to 1998.
- The Dynamic: Spanning nearly his entire breakthrough decade in Hollywood, this partnership remained largely out of the tabloid spotlight.
- The Outcome: The couple parted ways quietly in 1998 as Vartan's film career began gaining momentum with roles in movies like The Pallbearer and Never Been Kissed.
The High-Profile Romance With Jennifer Garner
Vartan's most famous relationship began on the set of the ABC spy thriller series Alias, where he played CIA operative Michael Vaughn opposite Jennifer Garner's Sydney Bristow.
- The Spark: After working together as friends for two years, their on-screen chemistry transitioned into a real-life romance in mid-2003. Garner had recently separated from her first husband, Scott Foley, and Vartan supported her through the transition before their relationship turned romantic.
- The Public Reaction: Tabloids and fans heavily tracked the pairing because their characters served as the central romantic arc of Alias. Vartan openly acknowledged the relationship in late 2003, famously stating that she was his girlfriend.
- The Breakup: The romance was relatively brief, lasting from mid-2003 until March 2004. Despite the split, both actors maintained a professional working relationship on the set of Alias for subsequent seasons and remained amicable friends years later, with Garner occasionally sharing nostalgic throwbacks on social media.
Marriage to Lauren Skaar
Following his split from Garner, Vartan spent several years outside of the public dating sphere before meeting his future wife in an unexpected location.
- The Whole Foods Meet-Cute: In 2009, Vartan crossed paths with real estate agent Lauren Skaar in a Los Angeles Whole Foods parking lot. Vartan approached her after a chance encounter, and after exchanging email addresses, the two began dating.
- The Proposal and Wedding: Vartan proposed in New York in March 2010, jokingly attributing the proposal partly to the bond between their dogs. On April 2, 2011, the couple married at the Pelican Hill Resort in Newport Beach, California, in front of family and close friends.
- The Divorce: The marriage lasted for roughly three years. In April 2014, Skaar filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. The separation process concluded without protracted legal battles or public animosity.
Current Relationship Status
Since his divorce from Lauren Skaar, Vartan has stepped back from heavy Hollywood spotlight and mainstream acting. He remains officially single, keeping his personal life private and focusing on interests outside of high-profile entertainment circles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Michael Vartan currently married?
No. Michael Vartan is currently single. His only marriage was to Lauren Skaar, whom he wed in 2011 and divorced in 2014.
How long did Michael Vartan and Jennifer Garner date?
Vartan and Garner dated for approximately seven months, from August 2003 to March 2004, after meeting on the set of the television series Alias.
Do Michael Vartan and Jennifer Garner still talk?
Yes. Despite their breakup, they remained good friends. They continued to work together professionally on Alias and have maintained mutual respect over the years.
How did Michael Vartan meet his ex-wife Lauren Skaar?
The two met in the parking lot of a Whole Foods grocery store in Los Angeles in 2009, after which Vartan initiated contact by asking for her email address.
