Classic TV stars Tony Danza and Valerie Bertinelli reignited long-standing fan speculation with a hilarious exchange on The Drew Barrymore Show, as Bertinelli revealed an unrequited crush and Danza playfully dismissed her claim about a forgotten phone number.
In a delightful moment that sent nostalgic ripples through the world of classic television fans, beloved actors Tony Danza and Valerie Bertinelli found themselves in a humorous debate over a long-lost phone number. During an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show on October 14, 2025, Bertinelli, known for her iconic roles, revealed a past crush on the Who’s the Boss? star and a bold attempt to spark a romance that, according to her, never materialized.
The Uncalled-For Confession
Valerie Bertinelli, now 65, candidly confessed that she once left her phone number in Tony Danza’s car’s glove box, hoping he would call. Her lament, “He never called me!”, resonated with host Drew Barrymore, who playfully added, “They never do, by the way.” The segment took an even funnier turn when Barrymore, 50, later confronted Danza, 74, about the alleged note. His response was immediate and characteristic of his good-natured persona: “No, I did not. I think she’s full of baloney.”
Bertinelli, a celebrated actress from shows like One Day at a Time and Hot in Cleveland, embraced Danza’s playful denial with laughter, turning the potential awkwardness into a moment of shared celebrity charm. This lighthearted exchange provided a glimpse into the enduring appeal of these television veterans, who continue to captivate audiences with their warmth and humor.
A Deliciously Playful Jab: Danza’s Date Sauce
The banter didn’t end with the glove box mystery. During the show, Tony Danza demonstrated how to make his popular “date sauce,” a garnish he often prepared for pasta, meatballs, or short ribs. This culinary segment provided Valerie Bertinelli with another opportunity for a playful jab. As Danza shared his recipe, Bertinelli jokingly remarked, “This is a sauce you never made for me even though I left my number in your glove box. Date sauce!” She even wrapped an arm around Danza’s shoulder, reinforcing the friendly nature of their exchange. Danza explained that the sauce originated from his habit of inviting women to his home for a meal, a detail Bertinelli was quick to note she had “never heard.”
Valerie Bertinelli’s Journey Through Romance and Solitude
The conversation about dating takes on a poignant context given Valerie Bertinelli’s recent personal life. She has been open about her romantic journey, which includes two high-profile divorces. Bertinelli first tied the knot with rock legend Eddie Van Halen in 1981, with whom she shares a son, Wolfgang, born in 1991. They separated in 2001 and finalized their divorce in 2007. She later married financial planner Tom Vitale in 2011, but their union ended in separation in 2021 and was finalized in 2022. During this divorce, Bertinelli was ordered to pay Vitale $2.2 million, as exclusively reported by RadarOnline. The same report indicated her decision to step back from the dating scene.
Following her divorce from Vitale, Bertinelli has expressed a desire to remain single, stating she is content riding solo and spending “the rest of my life alone” with her “six cats and my dog and my son, and hopefully one day, grandchildren.” Despite her firm stance, a close friend noted to RadarOnline that one should “never say never,” suggesting a potential change of heart if the right stable and trustworthy partner came along. Currently, Bertinelli is enthusiastically looking forward to her son Wolfgang’s wedding, a clear priority in her life.
Tony Danza’s Marital History
Like Bertinelli, Tony Danza has also navigated the complexities of marriage and divorce. He first married Rhonda Yeoman in 1970, and they welcomed a son, Marc, the following year. Their marriage concluded in divorce in 1974. Danza later wed Tracy Robinson in 1986, and they had two daughters, Katie in 1987 and Emily in 1992. After separating in 2006, they filed for divorce in 2011, which was finalized in 2013, as detailed in an article by Parade.
The Enduring Charm of Classic TV Stars
The playful exchange between Tony Danza and Valerie Bertinelli highlights the lasting connection these stars have with their audience. For fans of classic films and television, such interactions are more than just entertainment; they are a bridge to beloved memories and characters. The “glove box” anecdote, whether true or exaggerated for comedic effect, serves as a testament to their genuine camaraderie and ability to bring joy. It reminds us that even years after their most iconic roles, these performers continue to captivate and charm, effortlessly transitioning from sitcom sweethearts to real-life sources of amusement.
