From College Sweethearts to Hollywood Legends: How Eric and Dale’s Journey Began

Before Eric Braeden became synonymous with Victor Newman, he was just a young German immigrant named Hans-Jörg Gudegast with big dreams and an eye for philosophy and sports cars. It was at Santa Monica College that Eric first met Dale, a strong-willed art major with no time for his dramatics.

Their meeting wasn’t exactly a scene out of a romantic movie; in fact, it was quite the opposite. Dale was unimpressed by Eric’s bravado, viewing him as just another ambitious student with an accent and a bit too much confidence. But Eric, true to the tenacity that would later define his portrayal of Victor Newman, was captivated. He saw in Dale a grounded, artistic spirit that balanced his own high-energy drive.

The Foundation of a Dynasty

As their relationship blossomed, it became a partnership of opposites. While Eric navigated the grueling world of early Hollywood—often facing typecasting due to his background—Dale remained his steady anchor. She was there when he transitioned from Hans-Jörg to the stage name Eric Braeden, and she was the first to support him when he landed the career-defining role on The Young and the Restless in 1980.

More Than Just a “Soap Marriage”

In an industry where marriages often have the shelf life of a carton of milk, Eric and Dale have defied every Hollywood cliché. Their secret?

• Privacy: They have kept their personal life largely out of the tabloids.

• Mutual Respect: Eric frequently credits Dale’s artistic eye and sharp intellect for keeping him humble.

• Resilience: Together, they raised their son, Christian, and built a legacy that extends far beyond the soundstage.

Decades later, when Eric speaks of Dale, the legendary “Mustache” softens. Their journey from the hallways of Santa Monica College to the heights of television royalty proves that behind every powerful man is a woman who isn’t afraid to tell him exactly where he stands.