5 Surprising Facts About Manny Jacinto And Dianne Doan's Enduring Love Story, Updated 2025

The captivating love story of Manny Jacinto and Dianne Doan is one of Hollywood's most genuine and low-key romances, a refreshing change from the usual celebrity fanfare. As of late 2025, the couple—who first met in a dance class and have since become a formidable acting duo—continues to thrive, balancing high-profile careers with a fiercely private marriage that began with a surprise proposal and a quiet ceremony. Their recent appearances at major film premieres and industry events confirm their status as a solid, supportive power couple in the entertainment world. This article dives into the freshest details of their relationship, from their latest red-carpet moments to the intriguing professional paths that brought the star of *The Good Place* and the breakout actress from *Warrior* together, offering an updated look at their lives as a married duo in 2025.

Manny Jacinto and Dianne Doan: A Dual Biography and Professional Timeline

The foundation of this celebrated partnership lies in the impressive individual careers and shared Canadian roots of both Manny Jacinto and Dianne Doan. Their biographies reveal two artists who initially pursued different paths before finding their calling in acting.

Manny Jacinto Profile

• Full Name: Manuel Luis Jacinto
• Born: August 19, 1987 (Age 38 in 2025)
• Birthplace: Manila, Philippines
• Nationality: Filipino-born Canadian
• Education: Civil Engineering degree from the University of British Columbia (UBC)
• Breakout Role: Jason Mendoza in the NBC sitcom *The Good Place* (2016–2020)
• Notable Works: *The Good Place*, *Bad Times at the El Royale*, *Top Gun: Maverick*, *Freakier Friday* (2025)
• Career Path: Began as a dancer before transitioning to acting, demonstrating a versatile skill set.

Dianne Doan Profile

• Full Name: Dianne Doan
• Born: September 8, 1990 (Age 35 in 2025)
• Birthplace: Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
• Nationality: Canadian (of Vietnamese descent)
• Breakout Role: Lonnie in the Disney Channel Original Movie *Descendants* (2015)
• Notable Works: *Descendants* (1 & 2), Mai Ling in the Cinemax/HBO Max series *Warrior*, *Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.*, *Viking Destiny*
• Career Path: Started as a dancer, notably performing at the 2010 Winter Olympics, before focusing on acting.

The Unexpected Origin: How a Dance Class Led to a 2021 Wedding

The couple's initial meeting is a delightful anecdote that speaks to their shared background and passion for movement. They first crossed paths in 2016 at a dance class in Vancouver, long before Manny Jacinto’s career exploded with the success of *The Good Place*. This shared history as dancers gave them an immediate, deep connection. Dianne Doan, who is of Vietnamese descent, and Manny Jacinto, who is Filipino-Canadian, found common ground in their cultural backgrounds and the challenges of being Asian-Canadian actors in Hollywood. The proposal, which occurred in November 2019, was as thoughtful and unique as their relationship. Jacinto detailed how he planned an elaborate, multi-stage day for Doan, culminating in the proposal itself. The couple officially tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2021, keeping the details close to the vest, a testament to their desire for a normal life despite their growing fame. Their enduring relationship is often cited as a model for celebrity couples, built on mutual support and a commitment to keeping their private life separate from their public personas.

Recent Projects and Red Carpet Appearances: Their 2024–2025 Power Couple Status

The year 2025 has been particularly high-profile for the couple, with both actors celebrating significant project releases and making notable public appearances together, solidifying their status as a Hollywood power couple.

Manny Jacinto's 2025 Blockbuster Role

Jacinto's role in the highly anticipated Disney film *Freakier Friday* (the sequel to *Freaky Friday*) has been a major talking point. He attended the Los Angeles premiere of the film in July 2025, with Dianne Doan by his side. This project further diversifies his resume, moving him from the beloved comedy of *The Good Place* (where he played the iconic Jason Mendoza) to a major family-friendly film.

Dianne Doan's Continued Success in *Warrior*

While Dianne Doan’s profile has been consistently high, her performance as Mai Ling in the critically acclaimed series *Warrior* remains a career highlight. The show, based on the writings of Bruce Lee, showcases her dramatic range and martial arts training, offering a powerful representation of an Asian female lead.

Shared Public Moments

Beyond the *Freakier Friday* premiere in 2025, the couple also made a prominent appearance at the launch of the Disney+ and Lucasfilm TV series *The Acolyte* in May 2024. These joint red-carpet events are a clear indication that they are actively supporting each other’s careers and maintaining a visible, united front in the industry. They are frequently praised for their complementary styles and genuine affection in public settings, offering a refreshing glimpse into their married life.

The Secret to Their Enduring Hollywood Marriage

In an industry notorious for short-lived relationships, the marriage of Manny Jacinto and Dianne Doan stands out. Their secret, according to recent interviews, lies in a combination of shared values, humor, and a clear boundary between work and home life.

Shared Heritage and Understanding

As Canadian actors of Asian descent, they share a unique perspective on the industry, which creates a strong bond. They often discuss the importance of representation and supporting other Asian-American and Asian-Canadian talent, a mission that unites them professionally and personally.

The "Jason Mendoza" Effect

Manny Jacinto has often spoken about how his character, Jason Mendoza, helped him embrace a more carefree and present approach to life, which he applies to his marriage. His advice often revolves around communication and not taking life—or each other—too seriously. He has humorously noted that the best marriage advice is knowing exactly when to start talking to your spouse about a problem, suggesting a focus on timing and emotional intelligence.

A Foundation Built on Dance

The fact that they met in a dance class speaks volumes. It signifies a shared interest in movement, discipline, and the arts, providing a solid, non-Hollywood foundation for their relationship. This initial connection outside of a professional acting environment is often credited with keeping their relationship grounded. Ultimately, the story of Manny Jacinto and Dianne Doan is not just a tale of two stars, but a testament to how mutual respect, shared heritage, and a little bit of dance can create an enduring partnership in the brightest spotlight of Hollywood. Their continued success in 2025, both individually and as a couple, makes them one of the most beloved and watched duos in the entertainment world.