Jon Bon Jovi is reminiscing about his whirlwind elopement with his wife, Dorothea Bongiovi, as they approach their significant wedding anniversary. The rock legend, who first rose to fame in the mid-1980s with the hit single “Runaway,” married his high school sweetheart in a spontaneous ceremony in Las Vegas during the height of his band’s fame in 1989.
At the time, Bon Jovi was on tour in Los Angeles, inspired by a moment of reflection prompted by seeing a billboard featuring his band. “It was a crazy idea to just leave everything behind and head to Vegas,” Jon recalls. “We didn’t think much; we just did it. The taxi driver ended up being our only witness.”
The news of their elopement surprised everyone, including their band members, management, and families. Despite the initial shock and disapproval from their circle, Jon stood firm against the backlash, asserting their right to live their lives on their terms. Now, 35 years later, their enduring union stands as a testament to their deep connection.
Jon and Dorothea’s journey together includes not only raising four children but also co-founding the JBJ Soul Foundation, which tackles issues like affordable housing and hunger. Additionally, Dorothea has been a steadfast support through Jon’s recent health challenges, including a critical surgery on his vocal cords. Their love story, filled with both high notes and challenges, is featured in Jon’s new Hulu docuseries, “Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story.”
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