Joe Manganiello: Health Crisis, Divorce, LGBTQ Ally

In 2026, Joe Manganiello publicly revealed a decade-long health crisis that nearly took his life, reframing everything fans thought they understood about him. Between the end of his high-profile marriage to Sofia Vergara and his growing role as a prominent LGBTQ ally, his recent years have been defined by far more than his Magic Mike muscles.

Born: December 28, 1976 ·
Height: 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) ·
Net Worth: Estimated $16 million ·
Notable Role: Big Dick Richie in Magic Mike ·
Marriage: Sofia Vergara (2015–2024) ·
Award: Ally for Equality Award (2023)

Why did Sofia and Joe split?

The divorce between Sofía Vergara and Joe Manganiello was officially finalized in 2024. According to court documents, Manganiello filed for divorce in July 2023 citing irreconcilable differences (ABC News). The couple had been married since 2015 and had no children together.

“It’s simply not true that the split was caused solely by disagreement over children.” — Joe Manganiello, as told to ABC News

Vergara later stated in a January 2024 interview that she did not want to become an older mother, while Manganiello expressed a desire for children, but he rejected the media narrative that this was the sole reason (Good Morning America). Instead, Manganiello told TODAY that the couple “simply drifted apart” (TODAY).

What did Joe Manganiello say about Sofia Vergara?

In a 2025 interview, Manganiello said he respected Vergara but emphasized that their differences extended beyond the question of having children. He maintained that the split was amicable and they remain on good terms.

What is Joe Manganiello’s illness?

For nearly a decade, Joe Manganiello suffered from a life-threatening mystery illness that he kept private. In June 2026, he revealed details in a book description, describing a seven-year autoimmune-related health ordeal that affected his thyroid, digestive system, skin, lungs, and eyes (Marca). The crisis included chronic pain, multiple emergency hospitalizations, and heavy medication.

“I was heavily medicated and didn’t know if I would survive.” — Joe Manganiello (as reported by Marca)

The exact name of the illness has not been publicly disclosed. Manganiello’s first known health scare occurred in April 2016, when he was hospitalized and later said he was doing “great” (Entertainment Tonight). His wife at the time, Sofía Vergara, confirmed he was “good” after the episode.

Who is Joe Manganiello with now?

As of 2025, Joe Manganiello is not publicly known to be in a new relationship. Reports in late 2024 suggested he became engaged to actress Caitlin O’Connor, but no official confirmation has been made (Marca). Meanwhile, his ex-wife Sofía Vergara is reportedly dating surgeon Justin Saliman.

Who is Sofia Vergara’s partner now?

After her divorce from Manganiello, Sofía Vergara has been linked to Dr. Justin Saliman, an orthopedic surgeon based in Los Angeles. The relationship has not been officially confirmed, but multiple outlets have reported on their outings together.

Did Sofía Vergara have a baby with Joe?

No. Sofía Vergara and Joe Manganiello did not have any children together. Vergara has a son, Manolo, from her previous marriage to Joe Gonzalez. Manganiello has no biological children (Good Morning America).

Does Joe Manganiello support LGBTQ?

Yes, Joe Manganiello has been a strong supporter of LGBTQ rights for over a decade. In 2014, he received the Ally for Equality Award from the Human Rights Campaign (GoPride Chicago). He has spoken publicly in favor of marriage equality and attended HRC events as a straight ally.

“I believe in equality for everyone and in standing up for my friends.” — Joe Manganiello, Human Rights Campaign event (GoPride Chicago)

His advocacy extends to social media and interviews, where he has consistently voiced support for the LGBTQ community.