Paul Sorvino's Love Story: Dee Dee Sorvino, His Legacy, And Life After

There’s no denying that the late Paul Sorvino left an indelible mark on the film industry. With hundreds of unforgettable roles, including his iconic performance in Goodfellas, he became a household name. But behind the scenes, Paul’s life was just as captivating. His wife, Dee Dee Sorvino (née Benkie), was his rock, his confidante, and his biggest supporter. It was Dee Dee who broke the news of his passing in a heartfelt statement to Closer in July 2022. At the time, Paul was 83 years old.

“Our hearts are broken," Dee Dee said in the statement. "There will never be another Paul Sorvino. He was the love of my life and one of the greatest performers to ever grace the screen and stage. His legacy will live on forever.” Her words captured the depth of their bond and the profound impact Paul had on those who knew him.

After Paul’s passing, Dee Dee eventually found love again with actor John Schneider. But before we dive into that chapter, let’s take a closer look at Paul and Dee Dee’s love story.

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Paul and Dee Dee: A Love Story That Began on TV

Paul and Dee Dee’s journey together began in 2013, when they met on an episode of Your World With Neil Cavuto. It was love at first sight—or at least, that’s how Paul described it. “I went nuts as soon as I saw her,” he told the Los Angeles Times in 2015. “She was wearing this beautiful blue dress, and she had an aura around her. I thought, ‘Oh my God, this is going to be for me.’”

Their whirlwind romance led to marriage just a year later, in 2014. The couple tied the knot at Lincoln Center in New York City, a location that added a touch of elegance to their special day. Dee Dee, who has a background in media and politics, including serving as an aide to former President George W. Bush, brought a unique energy to their partnership.

Paul and Dee Dee weren’t just a couple—they were creative partners too. In 2017, they co-authored a cookbook titled Pinot, Pasta & Parties. The book celebrated Paul’s Italian heritage and paid homage to his Goodfellas character, Paulie Cicero, with a collection of mouthwatering Italian recipes. It was a project that showcased their shared love for food, family, and fun.

On social media, Dee Dee often shared photos of their adventures, including their celebration of their seven-and-a-half-year wedding anniversary in June 2022. Just one day before Paul’s death, she posted a picture of them celebrating National Tequila Day at The Hollywood Museum. The post was bittersweet, as it would turn out to be one of their last moments together.

“I am completely devastated,” Dee Dee wrote in an Instagram tribute after Paul’s passing. “The love of my life and the most wonderful man who has ever lived is gone. I am heartbroken.” Her words reflected the deep connection they shared and the void his loss left behind.

Paul’s Earlier Marriages: Two Loves Before Dee Dee

Before finding love with Dee Dee, Paul was married twice. His first marriage was to Lorraine Davis, which lasted from 1966 to 1988. Together, they had three children: Mira Sorvino, Amanda Sorvino, and Michael Sorvino. Mira, in particular, followed in her father’s footsteps, becoming an acclaimed actress in her own right.

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In 1991, Paul married his second wife, Vanessa Arico. Although their union didn’t result in children, it was another chapter in his life filled with love and companionship.

Dee Dee Finds Love Again: A New Chapter with John Schneider

Life has a way of surprising us, even in the most unexpected ways. In July 2024, Dee Dee married actor John Schneider in Las Vegas, just 17 months after the passing of John’s previous wife, Alicia Allain, from cancer. Their wedding was nothing short of unique, taking place in the back of a white convertible once owned by music star Usher.

“Just when we thought our happiest days were forever behind us … WE HAPPENED!” they said in a statement after their nuptials. It was a powerful reminder that love can find us when we least expect it.

John and Dee Dee met for the first time at The Hollywood Museum, though they kept their romance private until their wedding. In May 2024, John hinted at a new relationship during an episode of the “Grace Begins, The Podcast,” saying, “God sent a widower to a widow and a widow to a widower who gets it, who understands. Because I tell you what, I was ready to give it up, all of it—everything.”

“Then just when I thought the very notion of dating or holding another hand was repulsive, I met this one, that crazy Dame over there,” he added, gesturing to his partner. Their story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love.