Eric Braeden’s Family, Children, Relationships, and Friends: Everything You Need to Know

Eric Braeden grew up cherishing family and strong relationships. Known to value time with loved ones, he credits his close-knit bonds with friends as central to his life. Whether on set or at home, these connections helped shape his perspective and career choices over the years.

Family Life and Background

Eric Braeden was born Hans-Jörg Gudegast in Bredenbek, Germany, in 1941. He immigrated to the United States in 1959, starting a new chapter that would finally take him to Hollywood. His early life in Germany included a family where his father once served as mayor.

Braeden attended the University of Montana after moving to America. In 1966, Eric married Dale Gudegast. They met during his early years in the United States and built their life together in Los Angeles.

Their only child, Christian Gudegast, was born in 1970. Christian pursued a career in filmmaking and screenwriting, writing the film A Man Apart starring Vin Diesel. Eric and Dale have supported Christian in his creative ambitions.

Eric Braeden’s family has always played a central role in his life. Their support and love have been a foundation throughout his decades in the entertainment business.

Name	Relation	Birth Year
Dale Gudegast	Wife	1942
Christian Gudegast	Son	1970

Friends and Lifelong Connections

Eric Braeden has developed strong friendships throughout his long career. Many of these relationships began on set, especially with cast members from The Young and the Restless. Over time, these work relationships grew into trusted friendships.

He has stayed close with co-stars and collaborators, sharing stories and support both on and off screen. These bonds have offered comfort, especially during challenging periods in his life.

Braeden’s friendships often center around mutual respect and shared experiences in the entertainment industry. The support from these friends continues to be a source of strength for him.

Name	Known Since	Profession
Melody Thomas Scott	1980s	Actress (Co-star, The Young and the Restless)
Doug Davidson	1978	Actor (Co-star, The Young and the Restless)
Peter Bergman	Late 1980s	Actor (Co-star, The Young and the Restless)