Paul Cerrito is an American businessman and entrepreneur who became widely known after marrying Yasmine Bleeth, the iconic Baywatch actress. Unlike many celebrity spouses who chase the spotlight, Paul has always preferred staying behind the scenes, building his career in the hospitality and food industry while supporting his wife through life’s toughest challenges. His story is one of resilience, loyalty, and quiet success—showing us that not all heroes wear capes, some just show up every day with love and dedication.
Quick Facts About Paul Cerrito
| Full Name | Paul Cerrito Jr. |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 14, 1970 |
| Age | 55 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Profession | Businessman, Entrepreneur, Food Consultant |
| Famous For | Husband of Yasmine Bleeth, Nightclub Owner |
| Wife | Yasmine Bleeth (married August 25, 2002) |
| Children | None |
| Parents | Paul Cerrito Sr. (Father), Victoria Cerrito (Mother) |
| Education | Arizona State University (Hospitality Management), UCLA Extension Certificate (2020) |
| Net Worth | Approximately $500,000 – $10 million (2025 estimates vary) |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (approx.) |
Who Is Paul Cerrito?
Paul Cerrito is a businessman who gained public recognition primarily through his marriage to Yasmine Bleeth, but there’s so much more to his story than just being a celebrity husband. He’s a hardworking entrepreneur who built his career from the ground up in the nightclub and hospitality industry. Starting with owning a successful strip club in Michigan to later transitioning into food and beverage consulting, Paul has shown impressive business acumen throughout his career.
What really sets Paul apart is his unwavering support for his wife during her darkest moments. When most people would’ve walked away, he stood firm, helping Yasmine overcome her addiction and rebuild her life. Their love story, which began in a rehab clinic, has become an inspiration for many—proving that real love isn’t about glamorous red carpets but about showing up when life gets messy.
Early Life and Background
Paul was born on July 14, 1970, into a well-to-do American family. His father, Paul Cerrito Sr., and mother, Victoria Cerrito, provided him with a comfortable upbringing. Growing up, Paul was far removed from the Hollywood lifestyle he’d later be connected to. He was just a regular kid with big dreams and a strong work ethic instilled by his parents.
Details about Paul’s childhood and siblings remain private, as he’s always maintained a low profile. Unlike many people connected to celebrities, Paul never felt the need to share his life story publicly or use his wife’s fame for personal gain. This speaks volumes about his character—he’s genuinely not interested in the spotlight.
Education and Early Career Development
Paul attended Arizona State University in the late 1980s, where he studied Hospitality Administration and Management. While he didn’t graduate with a traditional degree, Paul often describes his education as a “degree of hard knocks”—meaning he learned more through real-world experience than textbooks. And honestly, that hands-on approach worked perfectly for him.
But Paul never stopped learning. In 2020, at age 50, he earned a certificate in restaurant management and food and beverage operations from UCLA Extension. This shows his dedication to continuous improvement and staying relevant in his industry. It’s pretty inspiring when you think about it—here’s a guy in his 50s still investing in his education and professional growth.
Career Journey: From Nightclubs to Food Consulting
Paul’s career path has been diverse and impressive. In 1994, when he was just 24 years old, he opened Jon Jon’s Cabaret, a strip club in Michigan. He successfully ran this business for over 14 years, proving he had the skills and determination to manage a challenging industry. Running a nightclub isn’t easy—it requires strong management abilities, people skills, and the capacity to handle difficult situations, all of which Paul mastered.
After selling the club in 2008, Paul pivoted his career. He moved into food and beverage consulting, leveraging his years of hospitality experience. In 2014, he launched dEATroitLOCAL, a food and beverage consulting company that also provided life and relationship coaching services. The company’s name is a clever play on “Detroit” and “Eat Local,” reflecting Paul’s Michigan roots and his passion for supporting local food businesses.
Between 2016 and his consulting work, Paul also served as managing partner for Newport Beachside Market, a European-style open-air market in Newport Beach, California. This six-month stint showed his versatility and willingness to explore different business models within the food industry.
Current Professional Life in 2025
As of 2025, Paul works as a seafood manager at Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market in Los Angeles—a position he’s held since 2019. Some people might wonder why a successful businessman would take a management position, but for Paul, it’s about staying active and doing what he loves. After suffering serious injuries from falls (more on that later), Paul’s career priorities shifted from building empires to maintaining steady, fulfilling work.
His role at the gourmet market allows him to use his extensive food and beverage knowledge while maintaining a work-life balance that supports his personal life with Yasmine. Paul is skilled in catering, operations management, retail, and sales—all talents he’s developed over his 30+ year career in hospitality.
How Paul Cerrito Met Yasmine Bleeth
Paul and Yasmine’s love story began in the most unexpected place—the Malibu-based Promises Rehabilitation Clinic in December 2000. Both were there battling their own demons with addiction. Yasmine, at the height of her Baywatch fame, was struggling with cocaine addiction that had spiraled out of control. Paul was also working on his own recovery journey.
They weren’t looking for love. They were focused on getting healthy and rebuilding their lives. But sometimes, the universe has different plans. Despite the conventional wisdom that says you shouldn’t start a relationship in your first year of sobriety, Paul and Yasmine felt an instant connection. As Yasmine later said, “They say you shouldn’t get into any relationship in the first year of sobriety—especially with someone in the program, but Paul and I fell in love immediately.”
Their relationship was built on a foundation of understanding, mutual support, and shared experiences. They knew each other’s struggles intimately, which created a bond that went deeper than physical attraction or Hollywood glamour. Paul became Yasmine’s rock during the most difficult period of her life.
People Also Love to Read This: Harlene Rosen: Woody Allen’s First Wife & Her Untold Story
Marriage to Yasmine Bleeth
After dating for nearly two years, Paul and Yasmine tied the knot on August 25, 2002, at the beautiful Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara, California. Their wedding was intimate and private, with only about 50 close family and friends in attendance. This wasn’t a typical celebrity wedding with paparazzi and magazine deals—it was a genuine celebration of love between two people who had found each other at rock bottom and climbed out together.
The venue choice was special too. The Bacara Resort was the same place where actress Debra Messing had married her husband Daniel Zelman in December 2000. The resort’s stunning oceanfront location provided the perfect backdrop for Paul and Yasmine to start their new chapter together.
By the time they married, Yasmine had already developed a strong relationship with Paul’s parents, particularly his mother Victoria. This family connection was important to both of them, as they were building a life based on solid foundations rather than Hollywood superficiality.
Supporting Yasmine Through Addiction and Recovery
Paul’s most significant role in his wife’s life hasn’t been as a businessman or entrepreneur—it’s been as her steadfast supporter through addiction recovery. Yasmine’s struggles with cocaine were well-documented and public. In September 2001, just months before their wedding, she drove her car off Interstate 94 near Detroit while high on cocaine. Police found syringes and cocaine in her vehicle and hotel room.
Through a plea bargain, Yasmine pleaded guilty to possessing less than 25 grams of cocaine and driving while impaired. She was sentenced to two years of probation and 100 hours of community service in January 2002. Throughout this incredibly difficult period, Paul never wavered. He stood by her side, attended court hearings, and helped her stay on track with her recovery program.
Many relationships crumble under that kind of pressure. But Paul’s love proved to be different. He didn’t see Yasmine as a celebrity mess or a liability—he saw the woman he loved who was fighting a disease. His unwavering support played a crucial role in Yasmine’s successful recovery and her ability to rebuild her life away from drugs and the toxic Hollywood scene.
Why Paul and Yasmine Don’t Have Children
One question people often ask about Paul and Yasmine is why they never had children. The couple has been married for over 23 years (as of 2025), which is longer than many celebrity marriages, yet they’ve remained childless. While they’ve never publicly explained this decision in detail, it’s widely believed that Yasmine’s history with drug addiction played a role.
Addiction can have lasting effects on health and fertility. Additionally, the couple may have consciously decided that focusing on Yasmine’s continued recovery and their relationship was more important than having children. They’ve never publicly discussed adoption either, suggesting they’re genuinely content with their life as a couple.
Instead of children, Paul and Yasmine are devoted dog parents. They’re frequently spotted walking their dogs in Los Angeles, enjoying the simple pleasures of life together. Their marriage appears happy and stable, proving that fulfillment doesn’t always require following traditional life scripts.
Life Away from the Spotlight
One of the most remarkable things about Paul Cerrito is how successfully he’s avoided the spotlight despite being married to a famous actress. He has no public social media presence—no Instagram posts showing off, no Twitter rants, no Facebook oversharing. His Instagram account (@PaulCerrito) exists but is set to private, with minimal activity.
This privacy isn’t accidental. Paul genuinely values living a normal life away from cameras and gossip columns. When paparazzi occasionally spot him with Yasmine in Los Angeles, he’s usually dressed casually and comfortably, walking their dogs or running errands—just living life like any regular person.
The couple reportedly splits their time between Los Angeles, California, and Scottsdale, Arizona. They enjoy the quieter pace of Arizona while maintaining connections to Los Angeles for work and social activities. This lifestyle choice reflects their priorities: privacy, peace, and quality time together over fame and attention.
The Disney Lawsuit and Health Struggles
Paul’s life took an unfortunate turn when he suffered multiple serious injuries from falls. According to reports, Disney was using his home to film a television pilot when production equipment cluttered the space. Paul tripped over this equipment, suffering injuries that set back his recovery from a previous fall he’d already been dealing with.
The incident led Paul to file a lawsuit against Disney, seeking compensation for his medical expenses and damages. The lawsuit, obtained by TMZ, highlighted how the injury impacted his life—he was already trying to recover from one fall when the Disney incident made things worse. These health challenges have understandably slowed Paul down and affected his career choices in recent years.
Despite these physical setbacks, Paul has shown remarkable resilience. He continues working at the gourmet market and maintains his daily routines, though perhaps at a slower pace than before. His focus on recovery and health has become a priority, with Yasmine’s support now flowing in the opposite direction—she’s there for him just as he was there for her.
Paul Cerrito’s Net Worth in 2025
Estimating Paul Cerrito’s exact net worth is tricky because different sources provide varying figures. The most conservative estimates put his net worth around $500,000, while more optimistic projections suggest it could be as high as $10 million. The truth likely falls somewhere in between—probably in the $2-5 million range.
Paul’s wealth comes from multiple sources. His 14-year ownership of Jon Jon’s Cabaret certainly generated significant income. His food and beverage consulting business, various management positions, and smart investments over the years have all contributed to his financial portfolio. Additionally, his wife Yasmine has an estimated net worth of $2 million from her acting career, though she earned relatively modest pay during Baywatch ($77,000 per season according to the 2024 docuseries “After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun”).
What’s important to understand is that Paul never married Yasmine for money or fame. He was already a successful businessman when they met, and he’s continued working throughout their marriage. Financial security is nice, but for Paul, it’s always been about doing meaningful work and supporting the life he and Yasmine want to live.
Rare Public Appearances in 2025
In January 2025, Paul and Yasmine were spotted on a rare public outing in Los Angeles, giving fans a glimpse of the couple who’ve successfully maintained their privacy for over two decades. Photos from January 9, 2025, showed them enjoying a day together in the city, looking comfortable and relaxed. These sightings are treats for fans who appreciate Yasmine’s contributions to television and respect the couple’s choice to live privately.
The fact that their appearance made headlines shows just how rare it is to see them in public. Most celebrity couples are photographed constantly, but Paul and Yasmine have mastered the art of living under the radar. When they do appear, it’s clear they’re just enjoying each other’s company—no posing for cameras, no trying to generate publicity, just genuine moments of a long-married couple living their lives.
Yasmine Bleeth: The Woman Behind the Headlines
To understand Paul’s life, you need to know about Yasmine. Born on June 14, 1968, in New York City, Yasmine started acting as a baby, appearing in a Johnson & Johnson shampoo commercial at just 10 months old. She’s of Russian-Jewish and German-Jewish descent on her father’s side, and her mother was Algerian with French ancestry.
Yasmine’s breakthrough came when she played Caroline Holden on Baywatch from 1993 to 1997, making her one of the most recognizable faces on television. People magazine named her one of the “50 Most Beautiful People” in 1995, and she appeared on FHM’s “100 Sexiest Women in the World” list every year from 1996 to 2001.
But behind the glamorous image was a woman struggling with addiction. Yasmine has been open about how cocaine dependency nearly destroyed her life and career. Her decision to seek help and her subsequent recovery, supported by Paul, is the real story of her life—not the red swimsuit or magazine covers.
Today, Yasmine has been out of the entertainment industry for over two decades. Her last role was in the 2003 TV movie “Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding.” She’s content living privately with Paul, focusing on health, happiness, and their relationship rather than chasing Hollywood comebacks.
The Power of Their 23-Year Marriage
Paul and Yasmine’s marriage, now in its 23rd year in 2025, stands as a testament to genuine love and commitment. In an industry where celebrity marriages often last months or a few years at best, their two-decade-plus union is genuinely remarkable. There have been no public scandals, no infidelity rumors, no dramatic separations—just two people who found each other in their darkest hour and built something beautiful together.
What makes their marriage work? It seems to be built on several key factors: mutual respect, shared experiences with recovery, commitment to privacy, and realistic expectations. They don’t try to be Hollywood’s “it couple.” They’re just Paul and Yasmine, living their lives, supporting each other, and finding joy in simple things like walking their dogs and spending quiet time together.
Their relationship also shows that sometimes the best partnerships form in unexpected places. Meeting in rehab isn’t the fairy tale people usually envision, but for Paul and Yasmine, it was exactly where they needed to meet. They understood each other’s struggles without judgment, creating a foundation of acceptance and unconditional love.
People Also Love to Read This: Jackie Rozo: Mildred Baena’s Daughter & Family Story
Lessons from Paul Cerrito’s Life
Paul’s life story offers several valuable lessons that go beyond celebrity gossip:
1. Success doesn’t require the spotlight. Paul built a successful career without ever seeking fame or attention. He let his work speak for itself.
2. True love shows up in the hard times. Anyone can be supportive when things are going well. Paul proved his love by standing with Yasmine through addiction, legal troubles, and recovery.
3. Privacy is a choice. In today’s social media-obsessed world, Paul shows that you can be connected to fame without participating in it. Setting boundaries is powerful.
4. Education is lifelong. Getting a certificate at age 50 shows that learning never stops, regardless of your age or prior success.
5. Loyalty matters more than image. Paul could’ve leveraged his connection to Yasmine for publicity or business opportunities, but he chose integrity instead.
6. Resilience comes in many forms. Whether it’s building businesses, supporting a spouse through recovery, or dealing with your own health challenges, Paul demonstrates quiet strength.
Paul’s Personality and Character
People who know Paul or have encountered him describe him as down-to-earth, calm, and genuine. He has short dark hair, a fit build, and typically dresses simply and comfortably—nothing flashy or attention-seeking. His relaxed appearance matches his easygoing personality.
Paul is approachable and friendly when spotted in public, but he clearly values his privacy. He’s not rude or standoffish; he just doesn’t feel the need to engage with celebrity culture. This groundedness is probably one of the things that attracted Yasmine to him—after years in Hollywood surrounded by ego and superficiality, Paul’s authenticity must have been refreshing.
His Cancer zodiac sign (born July 14) is said to represent loyalty, emotional depth, and strong family values—all traits that certainly seem to fit Paul’s character. Whether you believe in astrology or not, Paul embodies those protective, nurturing qualities that have made him the perfect partner for Yasmine.
Where Are Paul and Yasmine Today?
As of 2025, Paul and Yasmine continue living their quiet life between Los Angeles and Scottsdale. Paul works at Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, managing the seafood department and using his decades of hospitality experience. Yasmine remains retired from acting, with no public hints about returning to the industry.
Their days probably look pretty normal: Paul goes to work, they walk their dogs, spend time with family, and enjoy the peace they’ve worked so hard to create. They might travel occasionally, visit friends, or just hang out at home. It’s a simple life, but sometimes simple is exactly what you need after years of chaos and public scrutiny.
The couple’s commitment to each other remains strong. No divorce rumors, no public feuds, no drama—just a steady, loving marriage that’s stood the test of time. In a world obsessed with sensational headlines, Paul and Yasmine’s quiet contentment is actually the most interesting story of all.
Public Perception and Media Coverage
Media coverage of Paul has always been relatively minimal and mostly tied to Yasmine. Articles usually frame him as “Yasmine Bleeth’s husband” rather than focusing on his individual accomplishments. While this might bother some people, Paul seems perfectly fine with it. He’s never given interviews seeking to establish his own public identity separate from his wife.
When the media does mention Paul, it’s usually positive—highlighting his loyalty, his support during Yasmine’s recovery, or his successful business career. There’s respect for the way he’s handled being connected to fame without letting it change who he is fundamentally.
Fans of Yasmine tend to appreciate Paul for helping save her life and giving her the stability she needed to recover. Their love story resonates with people because it’s real and shows that second chances are possible when you find the right person to support you.
Final Thoughts
Paul Cerrito’s story reminds us that there’s dignity and value in choosing a private life, even when connected to fame. He didn’t become famous because he sought it out—he became known because he fell in love with someone famous and stood by her when others might have walked away. That loyalty and authenticity are rare qualities, especially in Hollywood.
His journey from nightclub owner to food consultant to supportive husband shows versatility and resilience. He’s adapted to life’s challenges—whether it’s pivoting his career, supporting his wife through addiction recovery, or dealing with his own health issues—with grace and quiet strength.
Paul and Yasmine’s 23-year marriage is proof that real love exists, even in an industry known for superficial relationships and quick divorces. They met in the most unlikely place, fell in love against conventional wisdom, and built a life together based on mutual respect, understanding, and genuine affection.
Today, Paul Cerrito is exactly where he wants to be: working a job he enjoys, living with the woman he loves, and maintaining the privacy he’s always valued. He’s not chasing headlines or trying to leverage his connection to fame. He’s just being Paul—and that’s more than enough.
His life teaches us that success isn’t always about being famous or wealthy. Sometimes, success is measured in the strength of your relationships, the quality of your character, and your ability to show up for the people you love when they need you most. By that measure, Paul Cerrito is one of the most successful people in Hollywood—even if most people don’t know his name.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How did Paul Cerrito make his money?
Paul Cerrito built his wealth primarily through his successful career in the hospitality industry. He owned and operated Jon Jon’s Cabaret, a strip club in Michigan, for over 14 years from 1994 to 2008. After that, he transitioned into food and beverage consulting, launching dEATroitLOCAL, and has worked in various management roles including his current position as seafood manager at Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market since 2019.
2. How long have Paul Cerrito and Yasmine Bleeth been married?
Paul and Yasmine have been married for 23 years as of 2025. They got married on August 25, 2002, at the Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara, California, after dating for nearly two years. They met in December 2000 at the Promises Rehabilitation Clinic in Malibu while both were in recovery from addiction.
3. Does Paul Cerrito have any children with Yasmine Bleeth?
No, Paul and Yasmine do not have children together. Despite being married for over two decades, the couple has chosen to remain child-free. While they’ve never publicly detailed their reasons, it’s believed that Yasmine’s history with drug addiction may have influenced this decision. They are, however, devoted dog parents and enjoy a fulfilling life together.
4. What is Paul Cerrito’s net worth in 2025?
Paul Cerrito’s estimated net worth in 2025 varies depending on sources, ranging from $500,000 to $10 million. Most estimates suggest his net worth is between $2-5 million, earned through his nightclub ownership, food and beverage consulting business, management positions, and smart investments over his 30+ year career in hospitality.
5. Why does Paul Cerrito stay out of the public eye?
Paul Cerrito values his privacy and has never been interested in fame or celebrity culture. Despite being married to Baywatch star Yasmine Bleeth, he maintains no active public social media presence and rarely makes public appearances. He prefers focusing on his work, his marriage, and living a normal, peaceful life away from Hollywood’s spotlight. This commitment to privacy has been a conscious choice throughout his relationship with Yasmine.
