Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan’s love story is one that began with a dance and captured the hearts of many. Meeting on the set of the dance movie “Step Up” in 2006, their chemistry was undeniable both on and off the screen. This article delves into the key moments of their relationship, from their Malibu wedding to the birth of their daughter, and ultimately, their separation and efforts to co-parent amicably.
A Love That Began with a Dance
Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan first crossed paths in 2006 on the set of “Step Up,” where they played love interests. Their chemistry was evident from the start, and it wasn’t long before they took their on-screen romance into real life. In an interview with PEOPLE in 2006, Tatum expressed his desire for a partner who could be playful and not take herself too seriously, hinting at the qualities he found in Dewan.
A Magical Proposal and Wedding
In 2008, Tatum orchestrated a surprise proposal in Hawaii, surrounded by close friends who had secretly traveled to Maui. He presented Dewan with a Neil Lane engagement ring, making the moment unforgettable. The couple married on July 11, 2009, in Malibu, California, in front of 220 guests. Dewan wore a stunning peach-and-ivory Reem Acra couture gown, while Tatum looked dashing in a tuxedo. Their wedding was a celebration of their love, and Tatum couldn’t have been happier, expressing his joy to PEOPLE shortly after the ceremony.
Early Years of Marriage and Parenthood
Following their wedding, Tatum and Dewan embarked on a honeymoon in Bali, where they got matching tattoos featuring a line from their wedding vows translated to “side by side” in Balinese. They settled into married life and expanded their family by adopting rescue dogs, Lulu and Meeka. Their bond grew stronger as they navigated the early years of their marriage.
In 2013, Tatum and Dewan welcomed their daughter, Everly, into the world. They announced her birth with joy, sharing the news on their respective websites and expressing their happiness. The couple remained protective of Everly, rarely sharing photos of her on social media. The first public photo of Everly was shared by Tatum on Father’s Day in 2013, marking a special moment for the family.
Collaborative Projects and Public Appearances
Tatum and Dewan collaborated on several projects during their marriage. They served as executive producers for the HBO documentary “Earth Made of Glass,” which focused on post-genocide Rwanda. Their work on the documentary earned them a Peabody Award, a significant achievement they celebrated together.
The couple often attended public events together, showcasing their strong partnership. In 2012, Tatum was named PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive, a title he revealed to Dewan in an unglamorous but humorous moment after washing their dogs. Despite the fame and accolades, they remained grounded and focused on their relationship and family.
Challenges and Separation
Despite their strong bond, Tatum and Dewan faced challenges in their marriage. In April 2018, they announced their separation after nearly nine years of marriage. In a joint statement to PEOPLE, they expressed their continued love for each other but acknowledged that their paths were diverging. They emphasized their commitment to co-parenting their daughter, Everly, and supporting each other through the transition.
Dewan opened up about the separation in a May 2018 interview with Harper’s Bazaar, highlighting their positive approach to co-parenting. She spoke about finding her own path and being inspired by Everly to be more assertive in her life. Tatum also shared his perspective on the divorce, describing it as a difficult but transformative experience.
Divorce Proceedings and Co-Parenting
In October 2018, Dewan filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences and requesting joint custody of Everly. Tatum also sought joint custody in his response. As the divorce proceedings continued, both Tatum and Dewan focused on their daughter and navigating their new roles as co-parents.
In April 2024, court documents revealed that Dewan had submitted a preliminary witness list for the ongoing divorce trial. The list included both Tatum and Dewan, indicating their involvement in discussing various aspects of their marriage, including business and financial activities. Tatum’s witness list included Dewan and her fiancé, Steve Kazee, who was expected to testify about their cohabitation and joint expenses.
Conclusion
Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan’s relationship was marked by love, collaboration, and mutual respect. Despite their separation, they have remained dedicated to co-parenting their daughter, Everly, and supporting each other in their respective journeys. Their story is a testament to the enduring power of love, even when paths diverge.
