Michaels, 49, and Minuto, 38, first connected on the celebrity dating app Raya in late 2018, shortly after Michaels’ split from her ex-fiancé Heidi Rhoades. Their bond quickly blossomed, marked by shared laughter, mutual respect, and an evident spark.
By Christmas of that year, Minuto publicly declared her feelings with heartfelt Instagram posts, and their relationship steadily deepened. Over the years, the couple has shared moments of joy, personal growth, and adventure, culminating in a proposal in November 2021.
The Proposal: A 7-Carat Declaration of Love
Jillian Michaels proposed to Minuto with a dazzling seven-carat emerald-cut diamond ring, featuring trapezoid side diamonds, designed by family friends at H&H Jewels in Miami. On social media, Michaels wrote, “1153 days… here’s to thousands more. She said ‘yes’ Minuto echoed the sentiment, sharing her excitement with a simple, “YES!”
For Michaels, the proposal wasn’t just about romance; it reflected a profound commitment. “It’s easy to stay together when everything is going great, but when life gets messy and challenging, that’s when the truth reveals itself,” Michaels said. “And DeShanna has shown herself to be strong beyond measure.”
A Trio of Wedding Celebrations
The couple first wed in a courthouse ceremony in Miami in July 2022, a private yet meaningful beginning to their married life. Shortly after, they flew to Namibia for an intimate ceremony with the Himba Tribe. Held under the stars, their wedding was officiated by the tribe’s chief and attended by around 100 villagers.
The third and most extravagant celebration took place on June 24, 2023, in Venice, Italy. Over three days, friends and family joined Michaels and Minuto at the luxurious Aman hotel, located on the Grand Canal. The festivities included a sunset welcome dinner at Belmond Cipriani and a ceremony where the brides stunned in Zuhair Murad designs.
Michaels, wearing a black beaded gown, and Minuto, in a white mermaid dress with lace sleeves, exchanged vows with heartfelt emotions. “I’ve never married anyone before because I didn’t believe there was someone I could walk alongside forever until DeShanna,” Michaels shared.
Who Is DeShanna Marie Minuto?
Minuto, born and raised in New York City, is a multi-talented fashion designer and former Division 1 college athlete. She launched her clothing line, Letterino, in 2019, focusing on custom-reconstructed vintage jackets. Her athletic background has complemented her relationship with Michaels, although she humorously admitted struggling with Michaels’ intense workouts at first.
Minuto’s love for animals and adventure is evident in her social media posts, where she shares moments of horseback riding and diving with sharks. She and Michaels have also built a family with their two dogs and a rescued cat Minuto found on a Miami highway.
Life as a Stepmom
Minuto is also a stepmother to Michaels’ two children, Lukensia, 12, and Phoenix, 10. Michaels adopted Lukensia from Haiti in 2012, while Rhoades gave birth to Phoenix the same year. Speaking about Minuto’s role, Michaels acknowledged the challenges, saying, “She’s come through well, but wow, talk about a lose-lose in the beginning.”
Despite initial difficulties, Minuto’s dedication to the children has strengthened their family bond.
A Global Love Story
Travel has been a cornerstone of Michaels and Minuto’s relationship. Together, they’ve explored destinations like Japan, Spain, Morocco, Finland, and the Galapagos Islands. Their shared adventures include everything from snowboarding in Colorado to riding ATVs in the Namibian desert.
On Minuto’s birthday in April 2023, Michaels reflected on their journeys, posting, “Happiest birthday to my wifey @deshannamarie… From the beaches of Galapagos to the Namibian Desert, Yankee Stadium to our living room couch. You are my always and forever.”
Michaels’ Past and Present: Career and Net Worth
Known for her work on The Biggest Loser and her fitness empire, Michaels has an estimated net worth of $18 million. Her success stems from television, fitness programs, books, and endorsements.
Previously engaged to Rhoades, Michaels endured a lengthy legal process to end their domestic partnership, which officially concluded in 2020. As part of their settlement, Michaels agreed to pay Rhoades $2.4 million in advance child support and covers additional monthly expenses for their children.
A Future Built on Love
For Jillian Michaels and DeShanna Marie Minuto, love is a journey filled with discovery, resilience, and joy. Whether they’re exploring the world or building a life with their children, their bond exemplifies the beauty of finding a partner who complements and inspires you.
With three weddings, a thriving family, and a shared passion for life, this power couple continues to inspire fans with their story of love and commitment.