Bethenny Frankel's dating history is as intriguing as her successful career. The "Real Housewives of New York City" alum has often made headlines for her romances, from her marriage to Jason Hoppy to her engagement with Paul Bernon. Her relationships, filled with highs and lows, have kept fans captivated over the years. Despite challenging moments, Bethenny Frankel's love life reflects a journey of resilience and new beginnings.
A Marriage That Turned into a Battle
Instagram | bravohousewives | Bethenny Frankel faced a tough divorce.
One of Bethenny Frankel's most talked-about relationships is her marriage to Jason Hoppy. The couple tied the knot in 2010 and welcomed their daughter, Bryn, soon after. However, their seemingly happy marriage took a difficult turn. In 2012, Frankel announced their separation, citing it as the best choice for their family.
Their divorce battle dragged on for eight years, with disputes over custody and assets. Finally, in March 2021, their divorce was finalized. During those years, Frankel once remarked in 2020 on "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen" that she was "still married" while discussing her relationship with Bernon. Her candid comment caught many by surprise, highlighting the complexity of her situation with Hoppy.
A Second Chance at Love: Paul Bernon
Frankel found love again with businessman Paul Bernon in 2018. The pair had an on-and-off relationship over the next few years, briefly splitting in October 2020 before reconciling. Bernon proposed to Frankel in March 2021, marking a new chapter in her life.
Although they shared many happy moments, their relationship ended in May 2024. According to sources, the couple’s differences made the relationship unsustainable. Bernon preferred a more private lifestyle, while Frankel often embraced the public eye. Despite their breakup, their romance remains a significant part of her journey.
A Brief Marriage with Peter Sussman
Before her rise to fame, Frankel was married to Hollywood producer Peter Sussman. The couple, who had been best friends for years, dated for two years before tying the knot in 1996. Their marriage, however, lasted only a year. Frankel once revealed in a 2010 interview that their relationship started as a strong friendship, which eventually evolved into something more.
Relationships That Played Out on TV: Jason Colodne
During her early days on "Real Housewives of New York City," Frankel was dating financier Jason Colodne. He appeared in several episodes of the Bravo show alongside her, giving fans a glimpse into their relationship. Their romance marked one of the first times her love life became a focal point of her public image.
A Short-Lived Romance: Michael "Mac" Cerussi III
In 2014, Frankel entered a brief relationship with financier Michael “Mac” Cerussi III. The couple split in May 2015, with insiders stating they were "headed down different paths." The relationship ended amicably, with both moving forward in their lives.
Dating Marcus Lemonis
Shortly after her split from Cerussi, Frankel began seeing Marcus Lemonis, the star of CNBC’s "The Profit." The two met during the summer of 2015 and enjoyed a brief relationship. According to sources, Lemonis impressed Frankel with his intelligence and kindness, making their time together memorable.
Hollywood Connections: Eric Stonestreet and Alex Rodriguez
Frankel’s romantic life has also included famous faces from the entertainment and sports industries. She was rumored to have spent time with Eric Stonestreet, known for his role on "Modern Family," in 2015. While discussing the rumors, Frankel described Stonestreet as an "awesome guy" but chose not to confirm or deny their relationship publicly.
In 2009, before Alex Rodriguez’s high-profile romance with Jennifer Lopez, he went on two dates with Frankel. She confirmed the brief relationship during a 2017 interview, describing it as casual and short-lived.
An Unexpected Link: Trevor Engelson
In 2018, Frankel revealed that she had briefly dated Trevor Engelson, the ex-husband of Meghan Markle. She shared that they met in Chicago and had plans to go out. Although their romantic connection didn’t last, they collaborated professionally on a TV show pitch, turning their relationship into a working partnership.
A Tragic Loss: Dennis Shields
Dennis Shields played a significant role in Frankel’s life. The two shared a close, on-and-off relationship for two years, during which Shields proposed to Frankel. Tragically, he passed away in August 2018 from a suspected overdose.
His death devastated Frankel, who described him as her best friend and business partner. A source close to her shared that she viewed Shields as family, emphasizing their deep bond.
New Beginnings with Tom Villante
Instagram | pagesix | Bethenny Frankel starts a new chapter.
Frankel’s latest romance involves businessman Tom Villante. Rumors about their relationship surfaced in September 2024 when they were spotted holding hands in Santa Monica. In November, Frankel made their relationship Instagram official by sharing a cozy video of Villante tending to her fireplace.
The couple’s appearance at the "Yellowstone" season 5B premiere in New York City solidified their status as a new power duo. Fans are eagerly watching to see how this chapter unfolds for Frankel.
A Life of Resilience and Change
Bethenny Frankel's relationships have been a mix of love, loss, and personal growth. Each relationship has shaped her journey from her rocky marriage to Jason Hoppy to her romances with Paul Bernon and Dennis Shields. Her openness about her experiences resonates with fans, reminding them that even in the spotlight, love is often complicated.
