On Saturday, Manny Jacinto, known for his role as Jason Mendoza in NBC’s popular comedy “The Good Place,” announced his engagement to longtime girlfriend and fellow actor Dianne Doan. Jacinto’s proposal was a heartwarming and meticulously planned event, influenced by his character’s relationship on the show. This article delves into the details of their romantic journey, the proposal, and their relationship’s significance.
A Love Inspired by Art
During a panel at Vulture Festival 2019, Jacinto revealed that his character Jason Mendoza’s relationship with Janet, played by D’Arcy Carden, served as the inspiration for his proposal. Jacinto, 32, shared how a line from Jason about relationships resonated with him deeply. This epiphany led him to plan the proposal a week later. “I looked at the Janet/Jason relationship, and there’s a sentence that Jason says to Chidi about relationships and it hit me pretty hard. I thought it was a sign that I needed to do it,” Jacinto explained.
The Journey of Their Relationship
Jacinto and Doan’s relationship has been marked by significant moments that Jacinto carefully incorporated into his proposal. Reflecting on their journey, Jacinto planned a day visiting several locations that held special meaning for the couple. Each place represented a milestone in their relationship, from their first meeting to their first dance class together.
Jacinto detailed the thoughtful planning, saying, “I took her to places that really meant a lot to us—where I first met her, where I first saw her, where we had our first date, and where we had our first dance class.” At each location, he presented Doan with a canvas note explaining the significance of that place.
The Surprise Proposal
The proposal was structured to keep Doan in suspense. Jacinto humorously recalled how, at the first location, Doan seemed to think he was going to propose right then and there. “I think she thought I was going to pop the question at the first place,” he said. “So with the first note, she was like, ‘Oh, that’s cool.’ I think she was a little disappointed there wasn’t more.”
However, the real surprise came four stops later. After visiting five meaningful locations, Jacinto proposed at the final stop, where their families were waiting to share in the joyous moment. “At the last place, I had our families waiting and I proposed,” Jacinto shared, making the moment even more special and memorable for Doan.
Dianne Doan: A Rising Star
Dianne Doan, a Canadian actress, has made a name for herself with roles in Disney’s “Descendants” films and Cinemax’s American crime-drama “Warrior.” Her career has been marked by diverse roles that showcase her talent and versatility. Born and raised in Canada, Doan’s journey in the entertainment industry has been one of hard work and dedication, earning her a place among notable young actors in Hollywood.
A Future Together
As Jacinto and Doan look forward to their future together, their engagement marks the beginning of a new chapter. Their love story, inspired by Jacinto’s role on “The Good Place,” underscores the profound impact that art can have on life. The couple’s thoughtful and sentimental approach to their engagement highlights their deep connection and shared experiences.
Fans of both actors eagerly anticipate more details about their upcoming wedding and future endeavors. Jacinto’s heartfelt proposal, intertwined with the narrative of his on-screen character, adds a unique and personal touch to their engagement story. It’s a testament to how powerful and inspiring fictional relationships can be, influencing real-life decisions and milestones.
Conclusion
Manny Jacinto’s engagement to Dianne Doan is a beautiful blend of art and life, showcasing the actor’s romantic side and thoughtful nature. The carefully planned proposal, inspired by his character Jason Mendoza’s relationship on “The Good Place,” is a story of love, significance, and cherished memories. As they embark on this new journey together, Jacinto and Doan’s story serves as a reminder of the profound connections and inspirations that can arise from the roles actors play and the stories they tell.
