Who Is Dale Russell Gudegast? Eric Braeden’s Wife of 50+ Years

Jack Harris 4 days ago

6 minutes read

Dale Russell Gudegast may not be a big celebrity, but her story is full of love, loyalty, and strength. She has been married to Eric Braeden, the famous actor from The Young and the Restless, for over 58 years. That’s a very long time, especially in Hollywood!

Many people know Eric Braeden as Victor Newman. But not everyone knows about his wife, Dale, who has been by his side since the beginning. She has lived a quiet and private life, but she has played a very important role in their family.

In this article, we’ll learn everything about Dale — from her childhood and college days to her family, marriage, and personal life. We’ll take a gentle and easy-to-read journey through her story. Let’s begin!

Table of Contents

Who is Dale Russell Gudegast?

Dale Russell Gudegast was born on June 21, 1942, in Los Angeles, California. She grew up in a family with Swedish and French roots. Her parents raised her with strong values, and she grew up learning about love, respect, and family traditions.

She had one sister, named Sigrid Valdis. Sigrid was an actress and played the role of Hilda in the old TV show Hogan’s Heroes. Dale and Sigrid were very close. Dale also had a special bond with Sigrid’s kids and often helped take care of them like a second mom.

Even from a young age, Dale was smart, curious, and full of life. She enjoyed reading, learning, and spending time with her family. These early years helped shape the kind and thoughtful woman she would grow up to be.

Early Life of Dale Russell Gudegast

After high school, Dale went to Santa Monica College. There, she studied art, which shows she loved beauty, creativity, and design. This is where her life took a very big turn — because that’s where she met Hans Gudegast.

Hans Gudegast is the real name of Eric Braeden, the man who would become her husband. At the time, he was studying economics and philosophy. The two became friends and soon started dating. They connected deeply and shared many similar values.

Eric later said that Dale was well-educated and loved European books. That made them feel close. Their love story started there in college, and it grew stronger over the years.

Dale Russell Gudegast’s marriage to Eric Braeden

Dale and Eric dated for a few years and got married on October 8, 1966. Their wedding was small and private, with close family and friends. Since then, they’ve been together for more than five decades, which is very rare and special in the entertainment world.

At the time of their wedding, Eric was still using his real name, Hans. He later changed it to Eric Braeden when he started working in movies. But at home, Dale still calls him Hans — the name she fell in love with.

Over the years, their love has stayed strong. Eric has said many times how much Dale means to him. He says she stood by him even before he became famous, and that he feels deeply loyal to her.

Russell Gudegast’s Role in Eric’s Life

Russell Gudegast's Role in Eric’s Life

Eric has often shared that Dale is more than just his wife — she’s also his biggest support system. She has helped him through many hard decisions in his career, including the time he wasn’t sure about taking a role in the movie Titanic.

Dale told him to go for it, and that advice helped him land a very important role. Eric said that Dale has a calm and thoughtful way of guiding him. She never pushes, but she always shares what she feels is right.

Even though Dale doesn’t like the spotlight, her influence is very clear. Eric has said she helps him stay grounded and focused. She’s the quiet strength behind his success.

Meet Russell Gudegast’s Children

Dale and Eric have one child together — a son named Christian Gudegast. He was born on February 9, 1970, in Los Angeles. Like his parents, Christian also chose a path in the entertainment world.

He studied film and graduated from UCLA Film School in 1992. His student film, Shadow Box, won an award for Best Student Film. Christian went on to write and direct popular movies like Den of Thieves and London Has Fallen.

Christian is now married and has a family of his own. Dale is very proud of her son and all the things he has achieved. She has supported him just like she supported Eric.

Dale as a Grandmother

Dale Russell Gudegast is not just a wife and a mom — she’s also a very proud grandmother. Her son Christian has three daughters, and Dale enjoys spending time with them whenever she can.

Their names are Tatiana, Angelika, and Oksana. Tatiana is Christian’s daughter from a past relationship, while Angelika and Oksana are with his wife, Natasha. The family stays close, and Dale is very involved, even if she doesn’t post on social media like others do.

Eric Braeden often shares photos and sweet messages about their granddaughters. Dale, however, likes to stay private. But her love and care for her grandchildren are a big part of her life, even if she stays quietly in the background.

Russell Gudegast’s Work in Movies and Design

Many people don’t know this, but Dale appeared in one movie. She had a small role in the 2001 film Holiday in the Sun with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. In the movie, Dale played a friendly chauffeur.

Even though it was a small role, it was a fun experience. The movie also featured Megan Fox, who was just starting out back then. This is Dale’s only known acting credit, but it still gave her a small spotlight moment.

Aside from that, Dale worked as a pillow and interior designer. She had a great eye for beauty and calm spaces. This talent helped her create a warm and peaceful home for her family — and it’s something she truly enjoyed doing.

Russell Gudegast’s Home in Santa Monica

Dale and Eric lived in a beautiful home in Santa Monica, California. The house was large — about 3,500 square feet — and had an amazing mountain view. It was their dream home, and Dale made it extra special.

She handled all the decorating. From stone fountains and mosaic floors to potted plants and cozy corners, she created a space that was both beautiful and peaceful. Eric would often say, “She did all the work, and I just wrote the checks!”

Their home had a nice balcony, a lovely pool, and many flowers. It was filled with love, memories, and happy moments — a true reflection of Dale’s gentle and caring style.

The 2026 Wildfire Loss

Sadly, in early 2026, their home was destroyed in the Los Angeles wildfires. The fire came fast, and the couple had to leave quickly. Eric later said they were heartbroken and shocked by how fast everything happened.

Before leaving, they tried to water down the house and protect it. But it wasn’t enough. They lost almost everything in the fire — years of memories, personal items, and the home they built together.

It was a hard time, but Dale and Eric stayed strong. They focused on each other and their family. Even though the loss was big, their love and bond helped them keep going. It showed just how strong they are together.

Russell Gudegast’s Private Life

Even after all these years, Dale Russell Gudegast stays away from the spotlight. She doesn’t post online. She doesn’t give interviews. She doesn’t try to be famous.

She enjoys a simple, quiet life filled with love, peace, and family. You might see her at special events with Eric, but most of the time, she’s happy staying at home and enjoying her private world.

This is one of the things Eric admires most about her. He has said many times that she doesn’t care about fame — she only cares about doing what’s right for her family. That’s what makes her so special.

Final Thoughts

Dale Russell Gudegast may not be a big name in Hollywood, but her story is just as powerful. She has been a loving wife, a caring mother, and a strong grandmother for many years.

She helped Eric Braeden through his career, supported her son through his dreams, and built a beautiful life for her family. Even though she stays private, her influence is clear and lasting.

Dale’s life is a quiet example of love, strength, and grace. And that’s what makes her truly unforgettable.