True love can withstand time, temptation, and celebrity, as demonstrated by Jon Bon Jovi and his wife Dorothea.After a brief separation in their early years, the couple—who met in high school in New Jersey—reunited when Jon recognized she was the one. They eloped in Las Vegas in 1989 while on tour, in spite of criticism from his management, record label, and even his mother, who was concerned that it would hurt his career.

As they commemorate 36 years of marriage, Jon attributes their family’s unity to Dorothea. While avoiding the spotlight as much as possible and leading a private, grounded existence, they have raised four children. “We try hard just to give our kids a normal life,” Dorothea once remarked.

Despite his notoriety, Jon claims that respect for one another and having “grown up and grown together” are the keys to their enduring partnership. In addition to providing emotional support to one another, they also manage charitable endeavors like the JBJ Soul Foundation and the Soul Kitchen eateries to aid the underprivileged. Their bond serves as a potent reminder that even in the midst of fame, love, dedication, and common principles can persist.