Valerie Bertinelli hits back at critics over emotional tribute to late ex Eddie Van Halen

Valerie Bertinelli has firmly defended an emotional social media tribute she shared for her late ex-husband, Eddie Van Halen, following pushback from online critics. The actress clapped back at her detractors after honoring the legendary musician on the sixth anniversary of his death. Her son, Wolfgang, also marked the solemn anniversary with a touching tribute of his own.

On Tuesday, the One Day at a Time star posted a vintage photograph of herself and the rocker sitting together in a car. She captioned the nostalgic image with a message stating that while photos may fade like old pictures do, the memories and the love never will. However, the post drew negative reactions from certain online users, prompting the former Food Network personality to address the backlash in a follow-up video.

In her video message addressed to critics, Bertinelli vented about the nature of the online pushback she frequently receives. She explained that while detractors do not explicitly tell her she is forbidden from loving an ex-husband, they persistently berate her over the course of months. According to the actress, critics attempt to make her feel irrational until she removes the shared photographs, accusing her of being obsessed and hurling harsh remarks at her. Despite the negativity, Bertinelli stated that she has learned a great deal over the years and is no longer bothered by the remarks.

Bertinelli emphasized that her capacity to love remains intact, noting that she continues to hold deep affection for Eddie, their son Wolfgang, and her daughter-in-law. She added that if she ever falls in love again, she will make room in her heart for that person without diminishing the love she holds for others. She captioned her video response with a defiant message telling haters to strap in for a ride and asking if their hearts could expand to hold multiple forms of love as well.

Wolfgang, now 35 years old, also honored his father on Tuesday by posting a photograph showing the musician holding him on his chest as an infant. He shared that the loss does not get any easier and expressed that he loves and misses his father immensely. Eddie Van Halen passed away in 2020 at the age of 65 following a stroke, after having battled throat cancer for six years. Bertinelli and the iconic guitarist first met at a concert in 1980, married the following year, and eventually filed for divorce in 2005 after a four-year separation.

The recent exchange highlights the ongoing public interest and complex personal dynamics surrounding the memory of the legendary rocker, as his family continues to honor his legacy publicly.