Audio Of VALERIE BERTINELLI's WRIF Interview Posted Online

March 9, 2012

On Wednesday, actress Valerie Bertinelli talked exclusively with radio affiliates of Envision Radio Networks' Guest Services. During an interview with Drew Lane and Mike Clark of Detroit, Michigan's WRIF 101.1 FM radio station, the ex-wife of rocker Eddie Van Halen explained there would not be a VAN HALEN tour or new album without their son, Wolfgang.
When asked about the backlash over Wolfgang heading out on tour instead of former VAN HALEN bassist Michael Anthony, Bertinelli gave the fans a new perspective. "You know, I loved Mike, too. I thought he was a really nice guy. Still do. But the only way this tour is happening is because Eddie gets to play with his son Wolfie. Otherwise this tour wouldn't be going on. It really wouldn't," stated Bertinelli.

"This brings joy to Ed," she continiued. "That's what he wants to do now — just have fun playing. As great as Mike is, this wouldn't be happening if Mike was still in the band," continued Bertinelli. "There would be no tour, there would be no album, there would be no nothing."

"For any fans that are angry that Mike is not in the band anymore, well at least they get to see a version of the band, because they wouldn't be if Mike was. You're getting to see Dave [Lee Roth] and Ed and Al [Van Halen] play together, and I know I am a very proud mom and I am a little prejudiced, but my son kicks ass! I mean he is an amazing musician," boasted Bertinelli.

Bertinelli was participating in the Guest Services tour to promote the return of "Hot In Cleveland", which airs Wednesday nights at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

When asked about how her 21-year-old son is doing on the road, Bertinelli said, "He's having the time of his life. I try to tell him not to read the Internet, but he reads some of the horrible things that people say. No matter what, they're not going to be pleased. I try to tell him, 'You're not going to please everybody, it's impossible.' Especially people who are so passionate about this band. But he's having such a great time. I think those naysayer voices are fading quickly in the back."

Click here to listen to the entire interview.

Bertinelli and Van Halen's divorce was finalized in December 2007 after 26 years of marriage.

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