The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dolores Catania took to social media to gush over her boyfriend and wish him a happy birthday in a sweet tribute. RHONJ season 12 recently wrapped and was as packed with drama as usual. Much of the drama swirled around Dolores' longtime best friend, Teresa Giudice, and her new fiancé, Luis Ruelas. Teresa, a powerhouse in her own right, was taken to task by the equally as bold Margaret Josephs, who took issue with Luis' past, particularly his previous relationships. The feud between the two women caused a strong rift among all the housewives, as they all took different sides and had various opinions on who to support. For her part, Dolores had Teresa's back, though Teresa was upset that Dolores didn't leave with her after a particularly heated showdown between her and Margaret in Nashville.
Although Dolores and Teresa have been friends since their youth, the two are no strangers to fighting or conflict. Before they found fame on reality television, Dolores and Teresa grew up together and have known each other for most of their lives. Their children are even close and have grown up together as well. Dolores' son, Frank Jr., even took Teresa's daughter, Gia, to prom. Over the years, the friends have watched each other weather feuds with friends, battle personal struggles and have seen many men come and go. Dolores was previously married to Frank Catania, but the two parted ways after he was unfaithful to her. Fortunately, the two were able to reconcile and have enjoyed a close friendship and co-parenting relationship ever since. Dolores previously dated Dr. David Principe, and the two even built a house together, but they eventually split due to an inability to agree on their level of commitment.
Now Dolores is happily dating a new man. The reality star has been dating businessman Paul Connell since early 2022, and they seem very happy together. Dolores took to social media to wish her new man a happy birthday, posting a sweet video compilation of photos and videos of her and Paul together. Alongside the video, she wrote, "Happy Birthday to my real life leprechaun. The one who stole my heart, my best friend & the guy who is always giving so much of himself."
Since joining RHONJ, Dolores has been beloved by fans and castmates, who joined in the well-wishing in the comments and expressed their support and love for him. Jackie Goldschneider wrote, "Happy birthday Paulie! Sending you lots of love!" Margaret also sent her love, commenting, "Happy happy Birthday @paul_g_connell You stole all our hearts!!" While her friends had nothing but love for the businessman, not everyone is thrilled with the relationship. At the RHONJ season 12 reunion, Dolores' ex-husband Frank expressed that he and Paul were not close but admitted that they were making some headway in their relationship.
Regardless of how anyone else feels, The Real Housewives of New Jersey star seems happy and content with her new man. While her romantic life is going well, Dolores is no stranger to drama with friends. Still, that seems to be the status quo among the housewives in New Jersey, and while it might not be fun for them, it is certainly entertaining for viewers.
Source: Dolores Catania/Instagram