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Jon Bon Jovi and Dorothea Hurley‘s enduring marriage, spanning over three decades, stands as a testament to love amidst the challenges of fame. As a celebrated rock icon and admired figure, the 63-year-old musician has openly addressed past instances of infidelity. Despite this, public intrigue persists regarding Dorothea and their romance, which began in the 1980s as Jon Bon Jovi ascended to global prominence as a rock star.
In an interview with ABC’s Michael Strahan in April 2024, the performer of “You Give Love a Bad Name” spoke candidly. “I was fortunate,” Jon Bon Jovi admitted. “I am a rock ‘n’ roll star, not a saint. There were numerous women in my life; it was part of the lifestyle.”
Discover more about Dorothea Hurley and her long-lasting union with the renowned rock legend.
Dorothea Hurley’s New Jersey Roots
Originating from the same state as her husband, Dorothea Hurley also hails from New Jersey. Their paths initially crossed at Sayreville War Memorial High School.
The Couple’s Elopement
Jon Bon Jovi and Dorothea Hurley‘s relationship began in 1985, though they briefly separated. However, their reconciliation led to an elopement in 1989, solidifying their commitment.
JBJ Soul Kitchen: Dorothea Hurley’s Non-Profit Venture
Dorothea Hurley co-established the nonprofit restaurant JBJ Soul Kitchen with Jon Bon Jovi in 2009. According to the organization’s official website, this initiative has dedicated over a decade to providing meals to individuals facing food insecurity.
Prior to her involvement in the food industry, Dorothea Hurley was a karate instructor, as reported by various sources. While the exact timeline of her career transition remains unclear, she embraced her roles as both a restaurateur and philanthropist.
Commitment Through Challenges
Despite admissions of infidelity from Jon Bon Jovi, his bond with Dorothea Hurley endured. During promotions for his 2024 Hulu documentary, Thank You, Goodnight — The Jon Bon Jovi Story, the celebrated musician behind “Livin’ On a Prayer” acknowledged temptations arising from having numerous admirers during the peak of his music career. Nevertheless, he emphasized his unwillingness to “jeopardize” his relationship with Dorothea Hurley.
“To think I would risk anything… by indulging the self-centered side of me? It’s illogical,” Jon Bon Jovi stated during the ABC interview. “What level of excess does one require to fuel that impulse? It simply isn’t worthwhile.”
Jon Bon Jovi also highlighted Dorothea Hurley’s role in maintaining perspective.
“I firmly believe her influence is central to our world functioning, from raising our children to guiding me, and in our shared endeavors,” he affirmed. “Undoubtedly… She is unafraid to challenge me, yet equally supportive in times of need, and vice versa. Regardless of career highs or lows, we have navigated it together.”
Family Life: Four Children
Since their marriage in 1989, Jon Bon Jovi and Dorothea Hurley have built a family with four children: daughter Stephanie, and sons Jesse, Jake, and Romeo Bongiovi.