Maria Menounos and her husband, Keven Undergaro, have shared a journey filled with love, resilience, and challenges. The couple met for the first time on the set of an independent film in the late 1990s when Menounos was still a college student. Despite their different backgrounds—Menounos as a budding television presenter and Undergaro as a Hollywood writer—their connection was undeniable. “When I first met Maria, I had never met anyone like her,” Undergaro fondly recalled in a 2018 interview with Yahoo Lifestyle.
The Early Days: A Spark That Ignited
Keven Undergaro and Maria Menounos began dating in 1998, marking the start of a relationship that would endure through numerous obstacles. Their bond deepened over the years, leading to their eventual marriage nearly two decades later. In 2017, the couple tied the knot during a live TV broadcast on Fox's New Year’s Eve special, showcasing their commitment to each other in front of millions of viewers.
A Decade-Long Journey to Parenthood
In February 2023, Menounos announced that she and Undergaro were expecting their first child together after a decade-long struggle with infertility. This news came just months after Menounos revealed her battle with pancreatic cancer earlier that year. Her health challenges, including a benign brain tumor and diabetes, only added to the complexity of their journey to parenthood. Yet, despite these hurdles, the couple remained hopeful and grateful for the opportunity to expand their family.
In June 2023, the world celebrated with Menounos and Undergaro as they welcomed their daughter, Athena Alexandra, via surrogate. The birth marked the culmination of years of perseverance and determination. I had to share it here first because you guys are my family, Menounos expressed to her fans, emphasizing the importance of community and support throughout her life.
Maria Menounos: Beyond the Screen
Beyond her successful career as a television presenter for shows like Extra and E! News, Menounos has always been open about her personal life. Fans have followed her story closely, from her early days in entertainment to her current role as a mother. Her ability to navigate the complexities of modern life while maintaining authenticity resonates deeply with audiences.
IMDb, the world's most popular and authoritative source for movie, TV, and celebrity content, highlights Menounos' versatility and enduring appeal. Her work extends beyond hosting; she launched her own interview series, Conversations with Maria Menounos, in 2013, featuring prominent figures such as Zoe Saldana.
Challenges Faced and Lessons Learned
Throughout her career and personal life, Menounos has faced significant health challenges, including pancreatic cancer, which she courageously battled in 2023. These experiences have shaped her perspective on life and reinforced her belief in the power of positivity and gratitude. Manifestation is a daily habit for Menounos, she explained, noting how she navigates uncertainty with optimism and appreciation for her blessings.
While the loss of her mother in 2021 brought additional heartache, Menounos views parenthood as a natural progression in her life. Transitioning into this new chapter alongside Undergaro feels both rewarding and fulfilling, despite the unanticipated challenges they've encountered along the way.
Celebrating Love and Family
As Maria Menounos and Keven Undergaro continue to build their family, their story serves as an inspiration to many. From meeting on a film set in the '90s to welcoming their daughter Athena in 2023, their relationship timeline reflects a profound commitment to one another and their dreams. Together, they embody the spirit of resilience, love, and hope, reminding us all that even the toughest journeys can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
