Who Is Arlene Vrhel? Inside the Life, Family, and Career of Joe Mantegna’s Wife

Arlene Vrhel is an American woman best known as the longtime wife of actor Joe Mantegna, but her life story goes far beyond being connected to a Hollywood star. Born on August 20, 1949, in New York, she has spent more than five decades building a life centered around love, family, and kindness. While her husband became famous for his work in film and television, Arlene chose to live a quiet and private life, focusing on raising their two daughters and supporting her family through every stage of life. Her journey is one of strength, grace, and devotion, showing that true success comes from love and the simple joys of everyday living.

As of 2025, Arlene Vrhel is 76 years old, having been born on August 20, 1949, in New York, USA. Even in her seventies, she continues to carry herself with grace and warmth. Arlene has a calm and gentle appearance that reflects her kind personality. She is known for her friendly smile and simple, elegant style, often choosing comfort over glamour. Though she keeps a private life and rarely appears in public, those who know her describe her as a naturally beautiful and down-to-earth woman whose inner kindness shines through her presence.

Meeting Joe Mantegna

The beautiful love story of Arlene Vrhel and Joe Mantegna began in 1969 in Chicago. Both were involved in the stage musical Hair, and it was there that their paths crossed. They were young, creative, and full of dreams. Their shared passion for theater and their easy connection quickly turned into something deeper. Joe was just beginning his acting career, and Arlene instantly became his biggest supporter.

They spent long hours rehearsing, laughing, and talking about their future. Joe has often described that time as magical and free-spirited, saying that they were “hippies” who lived life with love and hope. Their relationship grew naturally, built on friendship, trust, and understanding—qualities that would later become the foundation of their marriage.

A Romantic Wedding in Paris

After several years of being together, Arlene and Joe decided to take their love to the next level. In true romantic fashion, they exchanged vows at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, a city known as the symbol of love. It was a private and personal ceremony—just the two of them, no crowd, no cameras. They wanted the moment to be about their love and commitment. When they returned to the United States, they were legally married on October 3, 1975. Joe has often said that marrying Arlene was one of the best and easiest decisions of his life.

Their wedding reflected their personalities perfectly—simple, meaningful, and genuine. Over the years, their love only deepened, proving that the strongest relationships are built on mutual respect and understanding rather than grand gestures.

Who Is Joe Mantegna?

Arlene’s Support in Joe’s Career

Behind Joe Mantegna’s successful acting career is Arlene’s quiet but powerful support. During the early years, when acting jobs were uncertain and life was tough, Arlene stood by him with unwavering faith. She believed in his talent and reminded him never to give up. While Joe performed on stage at various Chicago theaters, Arlene became part of the artistic community, often helping out by cooking meals and hosting small gatherings for his friends. Joe once shared that he had a difficult night during a performance at the Goodman Theatre when he forgot his lines and felt embarrassed.

During intermission, Arlene comforted him and told him he would be fine. That small act of love gave him the confidence to return to the stage and deliver one of his best performances. Arlene’s belief in Joe became his anchor, and even as his fame grew, she remained the steady presence that kept him grounded and grateful.

Arlene Vrhel Family Life

Arlene Vrhel became a proud mother to two daughters, Mia and Gia, with her husband, actor Joe Mantegna. Their first daughter, Mia, was born in 1987 after a difficult pregnancy, arriving three months early and weighing only one pound and thirteen ounces. Despite the challenges, Arlene stayed strong and devoted, caring for Mia through her early health struggles and later supporting her after she was diagnosed with autism at age two.

Their second daughter, Gia, was born in 1990 and followed in her father’s footsteps, becoming an actress. Arlene has always focused on giving her daughters a loving and supportive home, teaching them kindness, patience, and the importance of family.

Facing Challenges with Strength

Motherhood also brought Arlene some of her greatest challenges. When their first daughter, Mia, was born, she arrived three months early and weighed just one pound and thirteen ounces. It was a frightening time for both parents as their tiny baby fought for her life in the hospital. Arlene stayed strong, never losing faith. When Mia turned two, she was diagnosed with autism, which changed their family’s life forever. But instead of giving in to fear or sadness, Arlene focused on love and learning.

She worked tirelessly to support Mia’s development and surrounded her with care and understanding. Joe has often said that Arlene’s calmness and optimism kept the family strong during those difficult times. Together, they celebrated every little achievement and learned to see the beauty in each small step. Arlene’s strength not only helped Mia thrive but also taught the family patience, compassion, and unconditional love.

Taste Chicago Restaurant

In 2003, Arlene took her love for food and family one step further by opening her own restaurant, Taste Chicago, in Burbank, California. It was a cozy and welcoming place that brought the flavors of Chicago to Los Angeles. The restaurant served favorites like deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and Chicago-style hot dogs. Taste Chicago quickly became popular among locals and fans of Joe Mantegna. Even though Joe helped when he could, the restaurant was truly Arlene’s creation.

She ran it with passion and dedication, greeting customers with warmth and making everyone feel like family. People loved the food, but they loved Arlene’s genuine personality even more. After sixteen wonderful years, Arlene and Joe decided to close the restaurant in 2019. It was a bittersweet decision, but the memories of Taste Chicago remain cherished by everyone who experienced it.

A Life Away from Fame

Despite being married to a Hollywood actor, Arlene has always chosen a private and peaceful life. She avoids media attention, doesn’t use social media, and rarely appears at public events. For her, happiness comes from spending time with her loved ones and living simply. While Joe often attends red carpets and award shows, Arlene finds joy in family gatherings, home cooking, and quiet moments. Her humility and calm nature have been a guiding force in their marriage, keeping it strong and steady even under the pressures of fame. She believes that true happiness doesn’t come from the spotlight but from the love and peace within one’s home.

Joe Mantegna’s Love and Admiration

Over the years, Joe Mantegna has often expressed deep love and admiration for Arlene. He has called her his best friend, his rock, and the reason for his success. On their anniversaries, he shares heartfelt messages thanking her for being his partner through all of life’s ups and downs. In 2023, Joe shared a touching tribute to Arlene’s late mother, thanking her for giving him the greatest gift of all—Arlene.

These small but meaningful gestures show how much Joe appreciates his wife and how their relationship remains strong after nearly five decades together. Their bond stands as a rare example of lasting love in Hollywood, built not on glamour but on mutual respect and genuine affection.

Supporting Autism Awareness

Arlene’s love for her daughter inspired her to support autism awareness and inclusion. She worked closely with Joe to make sure Mia had all the resources she needed to live a fulfilling life. Together, they supported Inclusion Films, an organization that helps people with developmental disabilities find work in the film industry. Mia later became a makeup artist and bookkeeper for the company.

Arlene’s compassion and dedication helped create opportunities not only for her daughter but for many others as well. She turned her personal experiences into a mission to spread understanding and kindness, showing that challenges can lead to beautiful changes when met with love and courage.

Giving Back Through Family Foundation

Arlene and Joe also founded the Mantegna Family Foundation, which focuses on helping veterans and people with developmental disabilities. While Joe often represents the foundation publicly, Arlene plays an important role behind the scenes, contributing her time, ideas, and support. She believes in giving back and helping those who face difficult circumstances. The foundation reflects the values that have guided their lives—compassion, community, and family. Through their charitable work, Arlene has quietly touched many lives, proving that you don’t need fame to make a difference in the world.

Life Today

Today, Arlene Vrhel enjoys a peaceful and fulfilling life with her husband and family. She is now 76 years old, and after more than fifty-four years together, her bond with Joe is stronger than ever. Their two daughters are grown and following their own paths—Gia in acting and Mia in creative arts. Joe continues to act and direct, while Arlene remains the heart of the family, offering love and support just as she always has. Even after decades of marriage, they still share laughter, friendship, and deep respect for one another. Their relationship continues to inspire others who believe in true love that lasts a lifetime.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

Arlene Vrhel has lived a comfortable but modest life. Her estimated net worth is around $500,000, earned primarily from her restaurant business and shared family ventures. However, money has never been her measure of success. What makes her truly rich is her family, her faith, and the life she has built through love and dedication. She continues to live simply, focusing on what truly matters—health, happiness, and togetherness.

Legacy and Inspiration

The story of Arlene Vrhel is one of quiet strength, unconditional love, and grace. In a world that often celebrates fame and wealth, she reminds us that the most meaningful success comes from love, patience, and family. Her journey shows that standing by the people you love and living with kindness can create a legacy far greater than fame. Arlene’s life is a reminder that true happiness lies in the everyday moments shared with those who matter most. Her story continues to inspire many people to value love, loyalty, and faith above all else, proving that sometimes the most extraordinary lives are lived quietly.

1. Who is Arlene Vrhel?
Arlene Vrhel is an American woman best known as the wife of actor Joe Mantegna. She is a former actress and restaurateur who has always preferred a private and family-focused life away from the spotlight.

2. When was Arlene Vrhel born?
Arlene Vrhel was born on August 20, 1949, in New York, United States. As of 2025, she is 76 years old.

3. When did Arlene Vrhel marry Joe Mantegna?
Arlene Vrhel and Joe Mantegna got married on October 3, 1975. Before their official wedding, they shared a private and romantic vow exchange at the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

4. Does Arlene Vrhel have children?
Yes, Arlene Vrhel and Joe Mantegna have two daughters. Their first daughter, Mia, was born in 1987, and their second daughter, Gia, was born in 1990.

5. What is Arlene Vrhel known for besides being Joe Mantegna’s wife?
Aside from being Joe’s supportive wife, Arlene is known for owning and managing Taste Chicago, a restaurant in Burbank, California, which served Chicago-style dishes from 2003 to 2019.

6. What challenges has Arlene Vrhel faced in her life?
Arlene faced a difficult time when her first daughter, Mia, was born three months premature and later diagnosed with autism. She handled those challenges with great love, patience, and strength.

7. Is Arlene Vrhel active on social media?
No, Arlene Vrhel is not active on social media. She prefers to keep her life private and focuses on spending time with her family.

8. What is Arlene Vrhel’s estimated net worth?
Arlene Vrhel’s estimated net worth is around $500,000, mostly earned from her restaurant business and shared family ventures with her husband, Joe Mantegna.