Who Is Dale Russell Gudegast? Meet Eric Braeden’s Beautiful and Private Wife

Dale Russell Gudegast may not be a big celebrity name, but she’s lived a life full of love, strength, and quiet beauty. If you’ve ever watched The Young and the Restless, you probably know Eric Braeden, who plays the powerful Victor Newman. But behind his long and successful career is a woman who has stood beside him for over 50 years — Dale, his wife, best friend, and biggest supporter.

In this article, we’ll get to know Dale Russell Gudegast in a simple and warm way. You’ll learn about her early life, how she met Eric Braeden, their long-lasting marriage, her own career, and what makes her so special — both as a person and as a wife.

Dale Russell Gudegast Quick Bio

Dale Russell Gudegast’s Early Life and Background

Dale Russell Gudegast was born in Los Angeles, California. Her birthday is either June 21, 1942, or November 17, 1941 — different sources say different dates, but either way, she’s now 83 years old in 2026. She grew up in a kind and loving family with strong European roots. Her background is Swedish and French, which helped shape her classic style and calm personality.

She wasn’t raised to chase fame or live loudly. Instead, Dale learned to stay true to herself. She loved art, design, and books from a young age. Her quiet creativity would later become a big part of her life. While Dale never tried to become a famous actress or star, she still left a lasting mark in her own peaceful way.

Her Famous Sister and Hollywood Family Ties

Dale’s sister was also an actress — her name was Sigrid Valdis, and she played Hilda in Hogan’s Heroes, a hit comedy show in the 1960s. Sadly, Sigrid passed away in 2007, but she and Dale were very close. They shared a deep bond as sisters, and Dale stayed close to Sigrid’s children even after her passing.

One of Sigrid’s sons is Robert Scott Crane, a musician and actor. Dale became like a second mother to him and his siblings. She helped raise them with love and always kept strong family ties. Even though Dale didn’t become a Hollywood star like her sister, she remained part of a family filled with talent and heart.

How Dale Russell Gudegast Met Eric Braeden

Dale met her future husband, Eric Braeden, at Santa Monica College in the 1960s. At that time, Eric was still using his real name — Hans-Jörg Gudegast — and had moved to the U.S. from Germany. He was studying economics and philosophy, while Dale was an art major.

Eric once said that Dale was “very steeped in European literature” and “well-educated.” He was drawn to her mind, her grace, and the way she carried herself. They didn’t fall in love in some flashy way — their relationship grew slowly and naturally, built on trust, deep talks, and shared values.

It was the kind of love that starts with friendship and turns into something lasting.

Dale Russell Gudegast and Eric Braeden’s Wedding and Marriage

Dale and Eric got married on October 8, 1966. It was a simple wedding, just close friends and family. They had no idea their marriage would go on to last nearly six decades. That’s rare in any relationship — but especially in Hollywood.

Over the years, their bond only grew stronger. They faced life’s ups and downs together, always as a team. Dale wasn’t just Eric’s wife — she was his calm in the storm, his steady hand. Eric has said many times that Dale is his rock, his best friend, and the person he turns to when making big choices.

Their love story is quiet, real, and truly inspiring.

What Makes Their Marriage So Strong?

What’s the secret behind such a long and happy marriage? According to Eric, it’s not just about love — it’s about liking the person you’re with. He says he doesn’t just love Dale — he likes being around her, talking to her, and sharing life with her.

He also says that mutual respect is key. Dale respects who Eric is, and Eric respects her just as much. They don’t try to change each other — they support each other. Dale gives Eric advice when he needs it. In fact, Eric has said he never makes a big decision without asking her first.

Even during hard times, Dale stays calm. That’s one reason why Eric trusts her so much. She’s not loud or showy, but her quiet strength keeps their marriage strong.

Dale Russell Gudegast’s Career and Creative Work

While most people know Dale as Eric Braeden’s wife, she has her own creative talents too. She had a small acting role in the 2001 movie Holiday in the Sun, starring Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. She played a chauffeur in the film — and while it was her only acting role, it showed her charm and grace.

But acting wasn’t her passion. Dale has always loved interior design and pillow design. She used her artistic eye to make her home feel warm, peaceful, and beautiful. Eric often jokes that he wrote the checks, but Dale created the home.

There are also reports that Dale is now writing a book — a personal story about her life, her marriage, and everything she’s learned over the years.

Life as Eric Braeden’s Wife

Being married to a famous actor like Eric Braeden might sound glamorous, but Dale Russell Gudegast chose a different path. She didn’t chase fame or try to be in the spotlight. Instead, she focused on building a peaceful life, raising a family, and supporting her husband behind the scenes.

Dale has been by Eric’s side through all of his biggest moments — from winning awards to celebrating 40 years on The Young and the Restless. She attended his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2007 and joined him at book signings and red carpet events. But most of the time, she chooses to stay private and keep life simple.

Eric often says that Dale is his strongest supporter. When he was unsure about taking the role in Titanic, it was Dale who told him to go for it. That role became one of his most famous film appearances. Dale’s advice, even in quiet moments, has helped shape his whole career.

Dale and Eric’s Son, Christian Gudegast

In 1970, Dale and Eric welcomed their only child — a son named Christian Gudegast. Dale took on her most important role yet: being a mother. She raised Christian with love, care, and strong values. She encouraged creativity and always made family the top priority.

Christian followed in his parents’ footsteps, but in his own way. He graduated from UCLA Film School and became a successful screenwriter and director. His work includes movies like Den of Thieves, London Has Fallen, and A Man Apart. Dale is proud of her son and the man he has become.

Eric says Christian is the “greatest gift of my life,” and Dale feels the same. They talk with their son often and stay very close as a family. Dale’s loving influence helped shape Christian’s calm, focused nature.

Dale Russell Gudegast as a Proud Grandmother

Dale Russell Gudegast is also a loving grandmother to three granddaughters. Christian has a daughter named Tatiana from a past relationship, and two younger daughters, Oksana and Angelika, with his wife Natasha. Dale enjoys spending time with all three of them.

Tatiana, the oldest, is an equestrian, and Eric often shares proud photos of her riding horses. Dale, while more private, loves those quiet moments — baking together, talking, or just being present. She has passed down her warmth and wisdom to the next generation.

Being a grandmother has brought Dale so much happiness. Family has always been her heart, and now, watching her granddaughters grow, she continues to give them the same love she gave her son.

Dale Russell Gudegast’s Beautiful Santa Monica Home

For almost 40 years, Dale and Eric lived in a peaceful, mountain-view home in Santa Monica, California. It wasn’t just a house — it was a warm, welcoming place filled with love, laughter, and Dale’s special touch.

Dale decorated the home herself. She added mosaic floors, potted flowers, rustic lanterns, and peaceful outdoor spaces. There was even a cozy balcony where they could sit and enjoy the sunset together. Eric once said, “I wrote the checks, but she made it a home.”

Sadly, in 2025, their home was lost in the California wildfires. It was heartbreaking, but Dale stayed calm and strong, just like always. They had to say goodbye to many memories, but Dale focused on what truly mattered — the safety of her family and the love they still had.

Dale Russell Gudegast’s Strength Behind the Scenes

Most people don’t realize how much Dale Russell Gudegast has shaped Eric Braeden’s life. She isn’t on TV, but she’s always been there — guiding, supporting, and giving him quiet strength.

Eric often says he doesn’t make big decisions without talking to Dale first. Whether it’s about acting, family, or life changes, he trusts her fully. Even though she stays out of the spotlight, Dale has been one of the most important people in his life.

She doesn’t need praise or attention. Dale has shown that love, wisdom, and calm can be even more powerful when shared quietly.

Where Is Dale Russell Gudegast Now?

As of 2026, Dale Russell Gudegast is enjoying a peaceful life in Los Angeles with Eric. She stays close to her son and granddaughters, spends time with family, and enjoys the calm she has always loved.

She may no longer live in her old home, but her heart is still full of warmth and care. Dale is also believed to be writing a book about her life and marriage — a story filled with love, loyalty, and lessons that could help others.

While the world knows Eric Braeden from TV, those who truly understand his success know that Dale Russell Gudegast is a big part of that story. She’s the quiet force behind the scenes, the anchor of the family, and the love that helped build it all.

Final Thoughts

So, who is Dale Russell Gudegast?

She’s much more than just Eric Braeden’s wife. She’s an artist, a mother, a grandmother, and a woman of great strength and heart. For over 50 years, she’s been the calm behind the fame — building a life of beauty, kindness, and love.

Dale’s story shows that you don’t have to be loud to make a difference. You don’t need the spotlight to shine. Her life is a beautiful example of how quiet love and lasting loyalty can change everything.

(FAQs)

How old is Dale Russell Gudegast in 2026?

She is 83 years old in 2026. Some sources say she was born on June 21, 1942, while others say November 17, 1941 — but either way, she’s in her 80s and still full of grace.

Does Dale Russell Gudegast have any children?

Yes! Dale has one son, Christian Gudegast. He’s a famous writer and movie director known for hit films like Den of Thieves and London Has Fallen.

Did Dale Russell Gudegast act in any movies?

Shockingly, yes — but only once! She played a chauffeur in Holiday in the Sun (2001), a movie with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. It’s her only film ever.

What is Dale Russell Gudegast’s net worth?

Her net worth is estimated to be around $500,000 to $800,000, mostly from her design work and investments. Her husband, Eric Braeden, is worth about $25 million.

Where is Dale Russell Gudegast now in 2026?

She lives a quiet life in Los Angeles with Eric Braeden. After losing their Santa Monica home in the 2025 wildfires, they rebuilt and stayed close to their son and grandkids.

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