The enduring love story of legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen is not a simple one, involving two extraordinary women who stood by him through the highs of rock stardom and the devastating lows of his final years. As of December 2025, both Valerie Bertinelli, his first wife and mother of his only child, and Janie Liszewski, his widow, continue to navigate their lives while fiercely protecting and honoring the legacy of the late rock icon. The most recent updates reveal deeply personal and often emotional insights into their complicated but loving relationships with the man who changed rock music forever.
The public interest in Eddie’s personal life remains intense, particularly following recent, candid interviews where Valerie Bertinelli has shared poignant details about his final moments and his battle with substance abuse. Meanwhile, Janie Liszewski, Eddie's wife at the time of his death, maintains a quieter, yet equally important, role in preserving the Van Halen name through her professional work and as a supportive presence for the family.
Complete Biography & Relationship Timeline of Eddie Van Halen's Wives
Eddie Van Halen was married twice. His relationships with both women were significant, each spanning a major chapter in his life and the history of the band Van Halen.
Valerie Bertinelli (First Wife)
- Full Name: Valerie Anne Bertinelli
- Born: April 23, 1960 (Age 65 as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.
- Occupation: Actress, Author, Television Personality (known for One Day at a Time and Hot in Cleveland)
- Relationship Timeline with Eddie:
- Met: 1980, backstage at a Van Halen concert.
- Married: April 11, 1981.
- Child: Wolfgang Van Halen (born 1991).
- Separated: 2001.
- Divorced: 2007.
- Current Status: Divorced from second husband Tom Vitale (2022). Continues to be a prominent figure in acting, cooking shows, and as a best-selling author, often speaking about her journey of grief and self-discovery.
Janie Liszewski (Second Wife & Widow)
- Full Name: Janie Liszewski Van Halen
- Born: 1970 (Age 55 as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Pennsylvania, U.S.
- Occupation: Publicist, Professional Ballroom Dancer, Actress, Stuntwoman, Entrepreneur (Owner of High Profile Media)
- Relationship Timeline with Eddie:
- Met: Began working as Van Halen's publicist around 2007.
- Married: June 27, 2009, at Eddie’s home in Studio City.
- Children: None.
- Widowed: October 6, 2020.
- Current Status: Widow of Eddie Van Halen. She continues to run her public relations agency and remains close with the Van Halen family, particularly Alex Van Halen (Eddie’s brother).
Valerie Bertinelli’s Emotional New Revelations on Eddie’s Final Days
Valerie Bertinelli has recently provided the most current and intimate perspective on Eddie Van Halen's final years, offering a raw look at their enduring bond despite their divorce. Her candor has resonated with fans worldwide, establishing her as a key voice in the narrative of Eddie’s life.
In a series of high-profile interviews and her own personal writings, Bertinelli has detailed the complex nature of their relationship, which transcended the traditional boundaries of a former marriage. They remained deeply connected through their son, Wolfgang Van Halen, and their bond was one of profound, unconditional love.
The Last Words and the Truth About Sobriety
One of the most emotional recent revelations from Bertinelli concerned Eddie’s final moments. She was present at the hospital, along with Janie and Wolfgang, when he passed away from a cerebrovascular event (stroke) while battling throat cancer.
Bertinelli has shared that Eddie’s last words to her and Wolfgang were "I love you." This simple, powerful phrase underscores the peace and reconciliation they achieved before his death. Furthermore, she has spoken openly about her gratitude that Eddie was able to make amends and achieve a period of sobriety before his passing, a struggle that was a significant factor in their 2007 divorce.
Her willingness to discuss the difficulties of their marriage—specifically the issues related to substance abuse—has helped demystify the rock star life and provided a sense of closure for fans, painting a picture of a flawed but loving man who was deeply devoted to his family in the end.
Janie Liszewski: The Widow Who Preserves the Van Halen Brand
Janie Liszewski, a woman of many talents—including professional ballroom dancing and stunt work—stepped into the role of Eddie Van Halen’s publicist in the mid-2000s and later became his second wife. Her contribution to the Van Halen legacy is often viewed through a professional lens, as she was instrumental in managing his public image and was a constant, stabilizing force in his life during his battle with cancer.
Their marriage in 2009 marked a new, quieter chapter for the guitar legend. Janie brought a background in public relations and media, which she utilized through her own company, High Profile Media. She was not just a spouse but a dedicated partner and caregiver.
The Family's Gratitude and Current Role
The relationship between Janie and the rest of the Van Halen family, especially Wolfgang and Valerie, has been described as harmonious, particularly in the face of their shared grief. Wolfgang Van Halen has publicly expressed immense gratitude for Janie's unwavering support and care for his father until the very end.
As Eddie Van Halen’s widow, Janie Liszewski continues to work closely with the family to manage the Van Halen brand and legacy. She often shares nostalgic and heartfelt tributes on social media, keeping the memory of the legendary musician alive for the millions of fans of the Van Halen band. Her role is crucial in ensuring that Eddie’s artistic and personal history is treated with respect and accuracy.
The United Front: Wolfgang Van Halen and the Blended Family
The most unique and heartwarming aspect of Eddie Van Halen’s personal life is the incredible bond between his two wives and his son, Wolfgang. This blended family dynamic is a powerful testament to the unconditional love Eddie inspired.
Wolfgang, a successful musician in his own right with his band Mammoth WVH, is the central figure connecting Valerie and Janie. Both women have shown immense support for his career, with Valerie often attending his shows and publicly celebrating his achievements. This unified front is a direct result of the mutual respect cultivated during Eddie’s final years.
The entire family—including Eddie’s brother, Alex Van Halen—has worked to maintain a sense of privacy while also sharing authentic moments that humanize the rock legend. The decision by Valerie and Janie to be present together at the hospital during his passing speaks volumes about their commitment to giving Eddie peace and love, making their story one of the most compelling and surprisingly positive narratives in rock history. Their continued public presence, whether through Janie's management of the Van Halen name or Valerie's emotional interviews, ensures that the man behind the iconic guitar riffs remains a cherished and deeply understood figure.
The ongoing narrative of the two women in Eddie’s life is a powerful topical authority for the Van Halen universe, highlighting not just the man’s musical genius but his profound impact on the people he loved most.
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