Jillian Michaels, 51, is a world-renowned fitness expert, author, and entrepreneur with an estimated net worth of $18 million as of 2025. Known for her role on The Biggest Loser and her fitness empire, Michaels has transformed lives worldwide. Beyond her professional success, she found love with fashion designer DeShanna Marie Minuto, 43, whom she married in 2022. Their journey together has been filled with love, adventure, and meaningful milestones.
How Did Jillian Michaels and DeShanna Marie Minuto Meet?
Michaels and Minuto first connected in 2018 on Raya, a members-only dating app for celebrities. Their relationship began shortly after Michaels ended her engagement with ex-fiancé Heidi Rhoades. From their first interactions, it was clear they shared a special bond. Minuto made their romance Instagram official during their first Christmas together, posting a heartfelt photo with Michaels and captioning it, “I ❤️ YOU @jillianmichaels.”
What Is DeShanna Marie Minuto’s Professional Background?
Minuto is a successful fashion designer and entrepreneur. Born and raised in New York City, she founded Letterino in 2019, a brand specializing in custom-reconstructed vintage jackets. Known for her creativity and innovative designs, Minuto has built a reputation in the fashion world for blending timeless styles with contemporary flair.
When Did Jillian Michaels and DeShanna Marie Minuto Get Married?
After dating for nearly four years, Michaels proposed to Minuto in November 2021 with a 7-carat emerald-cut diamond ring designed by a family friend. The couple married in a private courthouse ceremony in Miami during the summer of 2022. Following their official nuptials, they eloped in Namibia, Africa, where they had a spiritual ceremony officiated by the chief of the Himba Tribe under the stars.
In June 2023, Michaels and Minuto held a third wedding celebration in Venice, Italy. The three-day event at the Aman Hotel featured Minuto in a Zuhair Murad gown and Michaels in a black dress with sheer sleeves. This grand celebration allowed them to share their joy with family and friends.
What Role Does Fitness Play in Their Relationship?
Fitness is a cornerstone of Michaels’ life, and Minuto, a former Division 1 college athlete, shares her passion for staying active. Although Minuto initially found Michaels’ workout routines challenging, she embraced the challenge and improved her fitness levels. Michaels praised her determination, noting that Minuto achieved significant milestones, such as running a mile in just over seven minutes.
What Are Some of DeShanna Marie Minuto’s Hobbies and Interests?
Minuto is an adventurous spirit who loves animals and the outdoors. She enjoys horseback riding and has even overcome her fear of the ocean, diving with sharks during a trip to Belize. On Instagram, Minuto shared how Michaels encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone, helping her grow in confidence and resilience. The couple also has two dogs and a cat, adding to their shared love for animals.
How Does DeShanna Marie Minuto Embrace Her Role as a Stepmom?
Minuto is a loving stepmother to Michaels’ two children, Lukensia and Phoenix. Michaels adopted Lukensia from Haiti in 2012, and Phoenix was born the same month via her previous relationship with Rhoades. While Minuto faced initial challenges in blending into the family dynamic, Michaels has expressed pride in how she has embraced her role as a stepmom. The couple prioritizes creating a supportive and nurturing environment for their children.
Where Have Jillian Michaels and DeShanna Marie Minuto Traveled Together?
The couple shares a love for travel, exploring destinations worldwide. From snowboarding in Wyoming to diving in the Galapagos Islands, they have experienced adventures across continents. Their travels have taken them to Japan, Spain, Morocco, Finland, and Dubai, among other places. In 2023, Michaels celebrated Minuto’s birthday with an Instagram tribute highlighting their shared experiences, calling her “my always and forever.”
What Makes Their Relationship So Special?
Michaels has often spoken about how Minuto changed her perspective on love and commitment. Despite her initial hesitancy about marriage, Michaels found in Minuto a partner who embodies strength, wisdom, and creativity. In interviews, Michaels described Minuto as “all the things” she ever wanted in a partner, crediting her for inspiring personal growth and happiness.
Minuto, in turn, has expressed her gratitude for Michaels’ unwavering support and encouragement. Together, they have built a relationship rooted in mutual respect, love, and shared values.
What’s Next for Jillian Michaels and DeShanna Marie Minuto?
As of 2025, Michaels and Minuto continue to focus on their family, careers, and shared passions. Whether designing fashion, inspiring fitness enthusiasts, or creating cherished memories with their children, the couple embodies partnership and balance. With their love story serving as an example of resilience and joy, Michaels and Minuto remain committed to building a life full of adventure and purpose.