Last Updated: August 1, 2026
Tessa Prieto Husband: Tessa Prieto, the vibrant Filipino socialite, columnist, interior designer, and maximalist fashion icon often called the “Sea Princess,” has long captivated the public with her bold style and open personality. One of the most searched questions about her remains “Tessa Prieto husband.” For more than two decades, that title belonged to businessman Dennis Valdes. Their story is one of whirlwind romance, family, public milestones, and an eventual painful separation that Tessa has spoken about with striking honesty in recent interviews.
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How Tessa Prieto and Dennis Valdes Met and Married
Tessa and Dennis first crossed paths in 1993 during a scuba diving trip in Anilao, Batangas (some accounts also mention Palau). What began as a chance meeting quickly turned into a fast-moving romance. They married in 1994 in a memorable medieval-themed wedding that reflected Tessa’s flair for the dramatic.
Their marriage lasted 26 years. The couple became known for grand anniversary celebrations, including a Game of Thrones-inspired vow renewal for their 20th anniversary and an African-themed event for their 25th in 2019. Dennis, a businessman connected to established Philippine family networks, provided a steady counterpart to Tessa’s high-energy public life. Together they raised a blended family that includes Tessa’s eldest son Bryan (from a previous relationship) plus their children Tyrone, Jordan (sometimes referred to as Annika/Jordan Ariadne), and Athena.
Why the Marriage Ended: Recent Revelations
The couple separated around 2020. In August 2022, Tessa publicly addressed the split for the first time, describing it as painful and saying she felt betrayed, though she still spoke of Dennis with respect as the father of her children.
In 2025 the annulment was finalized (officially stamped in early January). By mid-2026, particularly in her July 31 appearance on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, Tessa offered clearer details. She said problems intensified around the pandemic when she noticed Dennis spending significant time with a younger female colleague from his company (who later rose to a senior role). Tessa has described the situation as involving infidelity and noted the large age gap and the fact that the woman had been a friend of their children. Dennis had reportedly suggested keeping both relationships, which Tessa rejected. She has also shared that Dennis knew she identified as gay before they married and that this was never an issue for him at the time.
Tessa has been careful to say she still holds love for the 26 years they shared, but not a desire to return. The public nature of Dennis’s later relationship and engagement announcement was especially difficult for her.
Key Facts About Tessa Prieto and Dennis Valdes
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name of Husband | Dennis Valdes |
| Marriage Years | 1994 – 2025 (annulled) |
| Length of Marriage | 26 years |
| How They Met | Scuba diving trip, 1993 |
| Children | Bryan, Tyrone, Jordan/Annika, Athena |
| Notable Celebrations | 20th & 25th anniversary vow renewals |
| Current Status (2026) | Separated/annulled; both have moved on |
Life After the Marriage and Tessa’s Next Chapter
Since the separation, Tessa has focused on healing, family, philanthropy (including the Red Charity Gala), and personal growth. She has spoken openly about therapy, spirituality, and rebuilding. After a later same-sex relationship that ended amid legal issues, she has recently confirmed she is in a new relationship with a woman named Irene, whom she met in church. She prefers to keep this chapter relatively private while centering her children and grandchildren.
Quick highlights of her journey:
- Raised four children and became a grandmother
- Continues her signature maximalist fashion and media presence
- Emphasizes family as her current priority
- Speaks candidly about heartbreak without bitterness toward the past
Conclusion
Tessa Prieto’s former husband, Dennis Valdes, was her partner for more than a quarter-century. Their story shows both the beauty of long commitment and the reality that even strong marriages can end. Tessa has handled the public interest with grace and honesty, turning personal pain into a narrative of resilience. As of August 2026 she is focused on family, self-reinvention, and quiet new beginnings. Fans continue to follow her colorful life not just for the drama, but for the authenticity she brings to every chapter.