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Donnie Wahlberg’s Unexpected IHOP Tip That Changed a Single Mom’s Life
Acts of kindness often appear when we least expect them — and sometimes, they come with a receipt that leaves someone speechless.
On New Year’s Day 2020, actor and musician Donnie Wahlberg stopped by an IHOP restaurant in St. Charles, Illinois, together with his wife, Jenny McCarthy, and their family. What seemed like a normal breakfast outing quickly turned into a moment that would change one woman’s life.
After finishing their meal, Wahlberg quietly paid the bill and left a tip that stunned the restaurant staff. Instead of a standard gratuity, he left $2,020 for his server, a woman named Bethany, who was working hard to support her family.
Before leaving, Wahlberg wrote a short message on the receipt, wishing her a Happy New Year and asking her not to look at it until after they had gone. When Bethany finally saw the amount, she was overwhelmed with emotion.
At the time, Bethany was a single mother trying to rebuild her life after recently moving with her young son. Like many parents, she was juggling rent, bills, and everyday expenses, unsure how she would make ends meet. The generous tip arrived at exactly the moment she needed it most.
The gesture was part of the viral “2020 Tip Challenge,” where people chose to spread kindness by tipping amounts inspired by the new year. But for Bethany, this wasn’t just a trend — it was a reminder that compassion still exists.
Wahlberg’s act of generosity quickly gained attention online, with many praising him for using his platform to uplift others in a meaningful way. However, those who follow the actor weren’t surprised. Over the years, he has developed a reputation for quietly leaving large tips and showing appreciation for service workers.
This simple breakfast visit became a powerful example of how one thoughtful decision can have a lasting impact. In a world often filled with negative headlines, stories like this remind us that kindness — no matter how small or large — can truly change someone’s life.
