Net Worth Ranker
What Is Cynthia Bailey’s Net Worth?
Cynthia Bailey, a multifaceted personality known for her modeling, acting, entrepreneurial ventures, and reality TV presence, has accumulated a net worth of approximately $2 million. This financial standing reflects her diverse career path and strategic business decisions.
Early Career and Modeling Success
Born Cynthia Denise Bailey on February 19, 1967, in Decatur, Alabama, her journey began after being crowned the first black homecoming queen at Deshler High School. This achievement led to being scouted by Wilhelmina Models, setting the stage for her modeling career. After a brief enrollment at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Bailey moved to New York City. There, she signed a five-year modeling contract with Wilhelmina, marking a significant step in her professional life.
In 1985, Cynthia Bailey’s modeling career took off in New York City. Her initial break was appearing in the music video for New Order’s “Round and Round” in 1989. The following year, she played Roxanne in the film “Without You I’m Nothing” alongside Sandra Bernhard, a role she considers a significant milestone, especially as she reportedly beat out Naomi Campbell for the co-starring role. Bailey’s first major booking was the cover of Essence Magazine, which provided a springboard for further opportunities. Following this, she spent a year working in Paris and Milan as a runway model before returning to New York City to model for brands like Target, Maybelline, and Oil of Olay. She also appeared in spreads for Vogue, Vanity Fair, Elle, and Glamour. Bailey graced the cover of Essence magazine twice, once in June 1995 and again in 1997, demonstrating her continued success and recognition in the industry. Additionally, she modeled for department stores such as Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Lord & Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, Talbots, Chicos, and Bergdorf Goodman, expanding her portfolio and solidifying her position in the fashion world.
Real Housewives of Atlanta and Entrepreneurial Ventures
Cynthia Bailey’s entry into reality television came in 2010 when she joined the cast of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” (RHOA) during its third season. Her initial hesitation stemmed from concerns about the show’s dramatic content, but she recognized the potential business opportunities it presented. She was introduced to the show because of her friendship with NeNe Leakes and her relationship with nightclub owner Peter Thomas. The network emphasized their desire to bring more sophistication to the show and showcase women with established careers. During her time on RHOA, she highlighted her relationship with Thomas and her friendship with NeNe, providing viewers with insights into her personal and professional life.
In 2011, Bailey expanded her entrepreneurial endeavors by opening a modeling school in Atlanta. The following year, she organized a model search across the South, offering a contract with a New York modeling agency as the grand prize. Her entrepreneurial spirit continued to thrive with the opening of The Bailey Room Wine Cellar and event space in Atlanta in July 2019. She also appeared on a celebrity edition of “Cupcake Wars” alongside NeNe Leakes. More recently, she reopened her wine cellar after the Covid-19-related shutdowns, adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic. All of these efforts contribute to Cynthia Bailey’s net worth.
Personal Life and Real Estate Investments
Cynthia Bailey’s personal life has also played a role in shaping her public image and, indirectly, her brand. She has one daughter, Noelle, born on November 9, 1999, from a relationship with actor and singer Leon Robinson. Bailey married nightclub impresario Peter Thomas on July 24, 2010; their wedding was featured on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.” The couple separated in 2016, and their divorce was finalized in March 2017. In August 2018, Bailey publicly announced her relationship with Fox Sports correspondent Mike Hill, with whom she became engaged in July 2019.
On September 8, 2016, Cynthia Bailey invested in real estate, purchasing a home in the Atlanta area for $940,000. The property, overlooking a small lake in Sandy Springs, includes a large deck, six bedrooms, and five bathrooms on one and a half acres. She affectionately named the house “Lake Bailey.” Initially, she had considered buying an apartment to embrace a “New York City sort of lifestyle,” but the producers of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” convinced her to purchase a home instead. This real estate investment further contributes to Cynthia Bailey’s net worth.
Net Worth Considerations
Cynthia Bailey’s net worth of $2 million is a cumulative result of her diverse income streams. Her modeling career provided a solid foundation, with earnings from magazine covers, runway shows, and advertising campaigns. Her role on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” has been a significant source of income, given the show’s popularity and her continued presence on the series. Additionally, her entrepreneurial ventures, such as the modeling school and The Bailey Room, contribute to her overall financial standing. Her real estate investment in Atlanta also adds to her asset portfolio.
While specific salary details from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” are not publicly disclosed, it is common for reality TV stars to earn significant sums per season, especially those who have been on the show for an extended period. The exact amount would depend on various factors, including her tenure on the show, her popularity with viewers, and any negotiations with the network. Beyond the base salary, cast members often receive additional compensation for appearances in other shows, endorsement deals, and promotional activities related to the show.
Cynthia Bailey’s career serves as an example of how diverse talents and strategic business decisions can lead to financial success. From her early days as a model to her current status as a reality TV personality and entrepreneur, she has consistently sought out opportunities to expand her brand and increase her income. Her story highlights the potential for individuals to build substantial wealth through a combination of talent, hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit. Cynthia Bailey’s net worth showcases how an individual can leverage their talents to create a financially secure future.
