Fans React After Suzanne Somers Widower Alan Hamel Confirms Hes Dating Her Former Co-Star

Alan Hamel and Joanna Cassidy, who were acquainted for many years, are now exploring the possibility of romance.

Hamel has started dating Cassidy, known for her role alongside his late wife, Suzanne Somers. This surprising news has stirred a variety of reactions from the public, with many expressing disbelief, support, and strong opinions.

On Monday, June 23, 88-year-old Hamel was seen enjoying a lunch date with 79-year-old Cassidy in Malibu, California. The couple, wearing matching baseball caps from the Malibu Beach Inn, appeared to be relishing their time together.

Confirming their relationship to Page Six, Hamel reflected on their 45-year-long friendship, recalling that Cassidy guest-starred on "The Alan Hamel Show" during the 1970s in Canada. He described their initial interaction as lively, pointing out that although they were both married then, they developed a mutual respect.

Their paths crossed again in the mid-1980s when Cassidy and Somers starred together in the miniseries "Hollywood Wives," which Hamel described as a friendly collaboration.

Hamel revealed that their recent reconnection was orchestrated by his son, Stephen, who met Cassidy at a screening. After an engaging conversation, Stephen encouraged the two to reconnect, completely unaware that they had a longstanding history.

Hamel has high praise for Cassidy, recognizing her as both a talented actress and a dedicated mother. He admires her for maintaining a substantial career in Hollywood for over 50 years and noted her philanthropic efforts, especially for first responders, as well as her love for her pets. "We share plenty of laughter together," he added.

Cassidy described their relationship as effortless from the start, stating, "It felt quite natural." She felt comfortable and at ease during their initial date, which she humorously noted lasted three days. Cassidy believes that certain people enter our lives at just the right moment.

Cassidy affectionately refers to Hamel as "Ah," a nickname that aligns with his initials. She remarked on their instant connection, saying, "This feels like a solid bond. It’s wonderful." Although she had enjoyed solitude for years and met other individuals, none compared to the impression Hamel made.

Public reactions to Hamel’s new relationship have been mixed. Some fans have expressed happiness for him, with one commenting on the loneliness he may have felt, suggesting, "Let the man be happy!" while another hinted at the notion that men often struggle without women’s companionship.

Others shared their joy, stating, "I’m thrilled he found happiness again," and, "That’s wonderful; he deserves love once more. Congratulations!"

Meanwhile, a few commenters speculated on the depth of their relationship, noting they likely share commonalities and experiences of grief. However, not everyone was supportive, with one person questioning the speed at which Hamel moved on.

Yet, some voiced a compassionate view, suggesting that Somers would have wanted Hamel to be happy. Skeptics emerged as well, with one remarking, "At 88, you should focus love on your kids and grandkids instead!" Humor also found its way into the comments, with one person jokingly warning, "I would haunt them both!".

Regardless of the mixed opinions online, Hamel believes that Somers would approve of his new relationship. Before her passing—just a day before what would have been her 77th birthday—she encouraged him to live life fully and not shy away from new beginnings.

He recalled her words, saying, "Don’t dwell on the past. Enjoy your life. We’ll meet again after your time here." However, he admits to being uncertain about what the future holds for him and Cassidy.

At this stage of his life, which he calls the "cocktail hour," Hamel expresses gratitude for his current circumstances. He acknowledges the beautiful family and fulfilling life he shared with Suzanne Somers, as well as the successful business they built together over the years.

Looking forward, he stated, "I feel lucky to have Joanna in my life. Many men would wish for someone like her."

Hamel has made the brave choice to move on after the loss of Somers, who passed away at 5:30 a.m. on October 15, 2023. Her death certificate revealed that she succumbed to breast cancer that had spread to her brain.

Although a biopsy confirmed her diagnosis, an autopsy was not performed. The certificate also indicated other health issues that contributed to her passing, including hypertension and hydrocephalus.

Three days following her death, Somers was laid to rest at Desert Memorial Park in Cathedral City, with funeral arrangements made by a Palm Springs, California, funeral home. To commemorate her memory, Hamel dedicated her headstone at Desert Memorial Park in October 2024, marking a year since her passing.

Hamel has openly shared his feelings regarding the impact of losing his wife, recognizing it as a major turning point in his life.

In a conversation after her death, he mentioned that they had often discussed the eventuality of this moment, assuming he would be the first to go due to their ten-year age difference. He admitted that the thought of her being left alone weighed heavily on him.

Hamel also penned a heartfelt letter to Somers, reflecting on their "magical" 55 years together. This was read by her the night before her passing.

In the letter, which he wrote entirely in uppercase letters, Hamel expressed that the term "love" is often misused in daily life, falling short of what he truly felt for her.

He wrote, "It doesn’t even come close. Unconditional love is not adequate. I would take a bullet for you, and I weep when I reflect on my feelings for you. That sentiment approaches it, but still not entirely."

Hamel concluded the letter by stating that no words, actions, or vows could fully convey the depth of his emotions for Somers. "So, I will call it, ‘Us.’ A uniquely and magically wonderful ‘Us,’" he finished.

Hamel and Somers were married for 46 years, having tied the knot in 1977 after spending almost ten years together as a couple. Both had previous marriages; Somers had a son from her first marriage to Bruce Somers, whereas Hamel had children from his earlier marriage to Marilyn Hamel.

Now, while he continues to treasure the memories of his late spouse, Hamel is ready to embrace love anew with Cassidy.