At 88 years old, Alan Hamel is navigating the landscape of love again after the profound loss of his wife, beloved actress Suzanne Somers, who passed away just before her 77th birthday. Their 46-year union was not just a marriage but a vibrant partnership built on mutual respect and affection. Initially overwhelmed by grief, Hamel has now found the courage to honor Suzanne’s wishes to seek companionship once more. It speaks volumes when one can step into the dating world with a fresh perspective, especially as he describes himself humorously as a “virgin dater,” having shared nearly five decades with one partner.
Hamel recounts that Suzanne, even in her final days, encouraged him to live life fully and not succumb to despair. This sentiment resonates deeply within those who understand the power of love — that it can spur one to embrace life even amidst sorrow.
The media buzzed recently when Hamel was spotted dining with two women at Capo, a trendy restaurant in Santa Monica. While the public’s gaze may seem intrusive, it highlights an essential shift in Hamel’s life as he steps out of the shadows of mourning. As he candidly shared with Page Six, the transition into this new phase has not come without its challenges. Dating, something he has not engaged in for more than half a century, requires not only courage but a willingness to be vulnerable again.
Hamel’s journey reminds us that life is inherently about movement and change. It is inevitable that we may find ourselves in unfamiliar territory, yet the ability to push forward resonates with those who’ve experienced a similar loss. His candidness about feeling like a novice in the dating world underscores a universal truth: love can be daunting at any age, but it can also lead to beautiful new beginnings.
On October 15, Hamel honored the memory of Suzanne by unveiling her headstone at Desert Memorial Park in California, marking a year since her passing. This act exemplifies a healthy method of coping with loss, ensuring that the love they shared is neither forgotten nor diminished. As Hamel feels the warmth of family and friends during the holiday season, he reflects on their joyous traditions, especially their love for extravagant Christmas decorations — a reminder of Suzanne’s vibrant spirit.
He shared a charming anecdote about adding wrapped empty boxes under the tree to amplify the excitement. It’s these little fragments of memories that reveal the foundations of a meaningful relationship filled with laughter and warmth. They were a couple who enjoyed the beauty of nature together, often finding joy in hiking and sharing tender moments at day’s end.
Through various trials and tribulations, Hamel has gleaned profound life lessons from his relationship with Suzanne. For instance, he emphasizes the importance of physical affection, suggesting that an impactful kiss should linger for more than six seconds, while a hug should surpass twenty seconds. These intimate exchanges, when combined, not only foster connection but also ignite the release of oxytocin, further solidifying emotional bonds.
Reflecting on their initial years filled with passionate disagreement, Hamel acknowledges that even amidst conflict, love has the power to evolve and deepen. His experiences resonate, suggesting that real love includes growth, communication, and most importantly, resilience.
Alan Hamel’s story serves as a poignant reminder that while loss is an intrinsic part of life, the journey to rediscover love remains vital. Whether navigating the complexities of new relationships or cherishing fond memories, it is love that continuously enriches our existence.