Eric Braeden, born Hans-Jörg Gudegast, is best known for his legendary portrayal of Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless, a role he has played for more than four decades. As one of daytime television’s most powerful and recognizable characters, Victor Newman’s dramatic love life has kept fans captivated for years. However, Braeden’s real-life story is far less turbulent and far more enduring. Away from the spotlight, the actor has shared a deeply private and lasting marriage with his wife, Dale Russell Gudegast, for nearly six decades. Their relationship stands as a rare example of long-term love and stability in Hollywood, making fans curious to learn more about the woman who has been by his side throughout his remarkable career.
Who Is Eric Braeden’s Real Life Wife?
Eric Braeden’s real-life wife is Dale Russell Gudegast, a woman who has largely chosen a life away from Hollywood’s glare despite being married to one of daytime television’s biggest stars. Professionally, Dale has worked as an interior designer and pillow designer, building a creative career that reflects her artistic background rather than the entertainment industry. She also made a rare on-screen appearance in the 2001 film Holiday in the Sun, though acting was never her primary focus.
Unlike her husband, Dale prefers to keep her personal and professional life private. She rarely attends public events and avoids media attention, a decision rooted in her desire for a normal, grounded family life. Eric Braeden has often shared that his wife plays a major role behind the scenes, influencing important decisions while remaining a calming and supportive presence outside the spotlight.
How Did Eric Braeden and His Wife Meet?
Eric Braeden and Dale Russell Gudegast first crossed paths while attending Santa Monica College. At the time, Braeden was studying philosophy and economics, while Dale was pursuing her passion as an art major. Their different academic paths sparked curiosity and conversation, helping form an early bond built on mutual respect and intellectual interest.
Braeden has spoken about being drawn to Dale’s education and cultural depth, noting her strong background in literature and the arts. This shared appreciation for learning and meaningful discussion created a natural connection between them. What began as a college romance soon grew into a serious relationship, laying the foundation for a lifelong partnership that would continue well beyond their student years.
When Did Eric Braeden Get Married?
Eric Braeden and Dale Russell Gudegast tied the knot in 1966, shortly after their college years. As of 2026, their marriage has lasted an impressive 60 years, making it one of the longest and most enduring unions in Hollywood.
The longevity of their relationship is often attributed to mutual respect, strong communication, and shared values. Eric has credited Dale for being a steady and supportive presence throughout his career, from his early acting days to decades on The Young and the Restless. Their ability to prioritize family, maintain privacy, and genuinely like each other has helped them navigate the challenges of fame while keeping their bond strong. Fans admire their marriage not only for its duration but for the love and loyalty it represents.
Eric Braeden and Dale Russell Gudegast’s Family
Eric Braeden and Dale Russell Gudegast share one son, Christian Gudegast, who has followed his own path in the entertainment industry. Christian is a talented writer and film director, known for projects such as A Man Apart, London Has Fallen, and Plane. He also made his directorial debut with the hit action-crime film Den of Thieves, showcasing his skills both behind the camera and as a storyteller.
Christian is married to Natasha Gudegast, a jewelry designer, and together they have three daughters, making Eric and Dale proud grandparents. While Braeden often shares glimpses of his family life with fans, Dale prefers to keep the grandchildren mostly private, maintaining the family’s low-profile lifestyle. Their family life is a testament to the couple’s focus on love, loyalty, and supporting one another both personally and professionally.
What Does Eric Braeden’s Wife Do for a Living?
Dale Russell Gudegast has built a career as an interior designer and pillow designer, using her creativity to craft beautiful, functional spaces and home accessories. Her work reflects a refined artistic sense, separate from the entertainment world, allowing her to maintain her own professional identity.
Although Dale made a rare on-screen appearance in the 2001 film Holiday in the Sun, acting has never been her focus. She has consistently chosen to stay out of the public eye, prioritizing privacy and family life over media attention. Eric Braeden has often praised her supportive presence, noting that her guidance and calm influence have been invaluable throughout his career while she continues to enjoy a quiet, fulfilling life outside Hollywood.
Eric Braeden on His Wife: What He Has Said Publicly
Eric Braeden has often spoken warmly about his wife, Dale Russell Gudegast, highlighting her role as the cornerstone of his personal and professional life. He has described her as forgiving, understanding, and deeply supportive, praising her as a loving mother to their son, Christian, and a guiding influence behind the scenes.
Braeden has shared that he frequently consults Dale before making important decisions, crediting her for helping him navigate both career choices and personal matters. Their relationship is built on more than love—it is rooted in mutual respect, friendship, and shared values. He emphasizes that a successful marriage depends not only on loving someone but also liking who they are, enjoying their company, and sharing life’s most meaningful moments together.
Their enduring bond reflects the combination of support, loyalty, and genuine companionship that has kept their marriage strong for decades.
Why Eric Braeden Keeps His Marriage Private
Despite his high-profile career and public persona, Eric Braeden has always been deliberate about keeping his marriage to Dale Russell Gudegast private. He and his wife have set clear media boundaries, rarely sharing personal details or inviting cameras into their family life.
This discretion stems from a deep respect for their family. By maintaining privacy, they can nurture their relationship, focus on raising their son Christian, and enjoy their grandchildren without the pressures of public scrutiny.
Their private life also contrasts sharply with Braeden’s on-screen persona as Victor Newman, a character known for dramatic romances and intense storylines. While fans see him as a larger-than-life figure on television, in reality, he prioritizes stability, love, and a grounded home life—a choice that has helped sustain their marriage for nearly six decades.
Key Secrets Behind Their Long-Lasting Marriage
Eric Braeden and Dale Russell Gudegast’s marriage has stood the test of time, and much of its success comes down to a few fundamental principles. Mutual respect and friendship form the foundation of their relationship, allowing them to navigate life’s challenges with understanding and patience.
They also share core values, including a commitment to family, loyalty, and maintaining privacy. These shared beliefs help them stay aligned in both personal and professional decisions.
Another key factor is open communication and unwavering support. Braeden has often credited Dale for being a calming influence and trusted advisor, while Dale’s quiet presence has helped him balance the pressures of fame with family life. Together, these elements have created a strong, enduring partnership that has lasted for nearly six decades.
Eric Braeden’s Wife in 2026: Where Are They Now?
As of 2026, Dale Russell Gudegast continues to enjoy a quiet and fulfilling life away from the public eye. She remains dedicated to her work as an interior and pillow designer while prioritizing her family and personal passions.
The couple continues to focus on their family, spending time with their son Christian and their three granddaughters. Despite decades of fame surrounding Eric Braeden, Dale’s influence helps maintain a grounded and private home life, ensuring their family remains close-knit.
Dale also continues to be a pillar of support for Eric, offering guidance and encouragement as he maintains his legendary role as Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless. Together, they balance Hollywood success with a lasting and loving partnership that has endured for nearly 60 years.
Final Thoughts
Eric Braeden and Dale Russell Gudegast’s love story is a rare example of lasting romance in Hollywood. From their college days at Santa Monica College to nearly 60 years of marriage, they have built a life centered on mutual respect, support, and shared values. Their family, including son Christian and three granddaughters, remains at the heart of their lives, reflecting the stability and devotion that have defined their relationship.
Even as Eric continues his legendary career on The Young and the Restless, Dale’s steady presence and guidance have helped him navigate fame while keeping their family grounded. Their enduring partnership is admired not only for its longevity but also for the love, loyalty, and privacy that have kept their marriage strong through decades of personal and professional challenges.
FAQ’s
What is Eric Braeden’s wife’s name?
Eric Braeden’s wife is Dale Russell Gudegast, whom he has been married to since 1966.
How long have Eric Braeden and his wife been married?
As of 2026, Eric and Dale have been married for 60 years, making their marriage one of the longest-lasting in Hollywood.
Does Eric Braeden have children?
Yes, Eric and Dale have one son, Christian Gudegast, who is a successful writer and film director.
What does Dale Russell Gudegast do?
Dale is an interior designer and pillow designer. She has also made a rare acting appearance in the 2001 film Holiday in the Sun.
Why is Eric Braeden’s wife rarely seen in public?
Dale prefers privacy and family life over media attention. She intentionally stays out of the spotlight to maintain a grounded and low-profile lifestyle for herself and their family.
