Valerie Bertinelli Opens Up About Eddie Van Halen's Troubled Yet Kind Spirit
Valerie Bertinelli recently shared poignant memories of her late ex-husband, Eddie Van Halen, during an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show . Reflecting on their 20-plus-year marriage, Bertinelli revealed a deeply personal and nuanced portrait of the legendary rock guitarist. Despite his public image as a "bad boy" of rock and roll, Bertinelli insisted he wasn’t defined by that stereotype, describing him instead as a good person grappling with profound personal struggles.
During the show, Barrymore and Bertinelli discussed the allure of "bad boys," prompting the actress to joke, “Who doesn’t love a bad boy? I was married to one for a while.” But Bertinelli quickly clarified, “I don’t understand what makes him a bad boy, because he wasn’t. He was a drug addict and alcoholic, but he wasn’t a bad boy.” This distinction painted a complex picture of Eddie, who battled addiction while remaining fundamentally kind-hearted and loving.
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Barrymore empathized, acknowledging the difference between someone engaging in self-destructive behaviors and someone who is inherently reckless or cruel. Bertinelli further elaborated, saying Eddie was “unstable” and had never fully addressed his childhood traumas, which may have contributed to his challenges. Yet, she described him as a deeply talented, sensitive person who often led a surprisingly “small life” outside of the projections of fame and celebrity.
One of the most touching moments came when Bertinelli reflected on their shared legacy: their son, Wolfgang Van Halen. She described Wolfie as “the greatest gift” Eddie gave her, highlighting the deep bond they shared despite their ups and downs.
Eddie Van Halen, who passed away in 2020 from complications related to throat cancer, remains an iconic figure in music. Yet, Bertinelli’s heartfelt recollections offered a rare glimpse beyond the spotlight, showing a man who, while flawed, left a lasting impact on those closest to him.
For anyone struggling with substance abuse, resources like the SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) are available to provide support and assistance. The conversation on The Drew Barrymore Show serves as a reminder of the humanity behind the headlines and the enduring power of love and understanding.
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