Renewing Vows: The Powerful Tradition Keeping Jenny McCarthy and Donnie Wahlberg's Marriage Strong

Jenny McCarthy and Donnie Wahlberg have found a unique way to keep their marriage thriving – by renewing their vows every year. This special tradition, which they initially started as a surprise, has become a cherished ritual that allows the couple to "reboot" their relationship and deepen their commitment to one another. Despite facing occasional skepticism from others, the Wahlbergs firmly believe that this annual vow renewal is a profound and meaningful practice that has strengthened their bond over the past decade.

A Yearly Ritual to Reaffirm Their Love

The Surprise Tradition That Became a Yearly Ritual

Donnie Wahlberg was the one who first introduced the idea of renewing their vows to his wife, Jenny McCarthy. "I decided the first year to do it as a surprise, and I thought it would be fun and good and something she wouldn't expect," Wahlberg revealed. The couple's first vow renewal ceremony was so powerful and emotional for them that Wahlberg decided they should make it an annual tradition. For the next nine years, Wahlberg would surprise McCarthy with the special event, keeping the details a secret until the last moment.

Celebrating a Decade of Marriage with a Shared Renewal

For the couple's 10th wedding anniversary in August, they decided to make the vow renewal a shared experience. "We did it at the place we were married. We renewed our vows with our minister," McCarthy shared. "In the same room, in the same spot," Wahlberg added. This milestone celebration allowed them to reflect on their journey and reaffirm their commitment to one another with a renewed sense of purpose and appreciation.

The Meaning Behind the Ritual

McCarthy and Wahlberg view their yearly vow renewals as a "reboot" for their marriage, much like rebooting a phone or upgrading it. "It really is like a reboot. Like we shut down our phone to reboot it. We upgrade our phone. This, to me, our renewals feel like an upgrade every time we do it," McCarthy explained. The act of stopping, staring into each other's eyes, and reciting their vows again allows the couple to deepen their connection and vulnerability, which they find to be a "profound" experience.

Embracing the Criticism and Celebrating Their Love

Despite the occasional criticism they receive for renewing their vows so frequently, McCarthy and Wahlberg remain steadfast in their commitment to the tradition. "I think it's so important now that we've done it because people do like to make fun of us for doing it," McCarthy acknowledged. However, the couple sees the ritual as a way to honor their love and commitment, regardless of what others may think. "To be able to do it again with what we know now and 10 years under our belt, and to just be in that space of honesty and vulnerability with each other, it's really a profound thing to do," Wahlberg noted.

Overcoming Divorce Rumors with Unwavering Love

Despite the occasional divorce rumors that have surfaced, McCarthy and Wahlberg remain unshaken in their devotion to one another. "People just have to look at us and know that that will never happen. It's like 'till death do us part, absolutely, in this marriage," McCarthy asserted. The couple's commitment to their yearly vow renewals and their open communication have helped them weather any challenges that have come their way, solidifying their bond and ensuring that their love will endure.

A Family Affair: "The Masked Singer" Connection

The Wahlbergs' love story has even extended to their involvement with the hit TV show "The Masked Singer." McCarthy, who serves as a judge on the show, was surprised when her husband Donnie appeared as a contestant, dressed as a rooster and performing "Return of the Mack." The couple's son, Evan Asher, also works on the show, adding to the family's connection with the program.

Embracing the Unexpected and Cherishing the Memories

The Wahlbergs' marriage has been filled with unexpected moments, including the story of McCarthy's wedding dress being ruined on their big day. "There was no salvaging it," McCarthy admitted, but she embraces the story and the memories it has created. "So many married couples get too tired to consummate the marriage afterwards, but we did it during the wedding," she shared, laughing. These moments, along with their yearly vow renewals, have become cherished parts of the Wahlbergs' journey, strengthening their bond and reminding them of the joy and passion that has sustained their relationship.