Valerie Bertinelli Reflects on Betty White’s Influence

Valerie Bertinelli recently shared insights into her life, drawing inspiration from her former co-star, Betty White. During an appearance on “The Drew Barrymore Show,” Bertinelli was asked about the best advice she ever received. She credited Betty White, highlighting how White’s embodiment of gratitude profoundly impacted her. Bertinelli described White as “living, breathing gratitude,” appreciating every aspect of life, whether good or bad. This perspective has been instrumental for Bertinelli as she navigates personal challenges over the past five years.

Gratitude Through Adversity

Bertinelli emphasized that embracing gratitude, even during difficult times, has been a key lesson from White. She acknowledged that while facing hardships is unpleasant, it is often necessary for personal growth. Bertinelli believes that mistakes serve a purpose, teaching us what not to do and helping us learn better ways to handle life’s challenges. Her gratitude extends to every moment, especially the tough ones, a mindset she attributes to White’s influence.

A Cherished Working Relationship

Bertinelli and White shared the screen on the popular show “Hot In Cleveland” from 2010 to 2015. White played Elka Ostrovsky, a character who became central to the storyline as Bertinelli’s character and her friends rented a house from her. Reflecting on their time together, Bertinelli described White as “magical” and expressed her fortune in working with such an iconic figure for five years.

Personal Struggles and Resilience

In recent social media posts, Bertinelli has been open about her personal struggles, including emotional challenges and maintaining sobriety. In May 2025, she revealed experiencing some of the most emotionally taxing months of her life. Despite these difficulties, she remains determined to learn from them and grow stronger. Her journey includes understanding her strengths and weaknesses while continuing to work on herself.

Facing Sobriety Challenges

Bertinelli candidly discussed her battle with sobriety during tough times. She admitted feeling tempted to drink to numb her emotions but recognized the importance of confronting her feelings head-on. Her logical mind reminds her that feeling emotions and working through them is ultimately more beneficial than avoidance.