Net Worth Ranker
What Is Kelly Bensimon’s Net Worth?
Kelly Bensimon, an American television personality, author, socialite, and former model, has accumulated a net worth of $10 million. This wealth stems from her diverse career, which includes modeling, reality television appearances, writing, and real estate ventures.
Early Career and Modeling Success
Kelly Jean Killoren, born on May 1, 1968, in Rockford, Illinois, began her modeling career in her early 20s after attending Trinity College and Columbia University. She quickly gained traction, working with esteemed modeling agencies such as Ford Models and Elite Model Management. Her modeling career saw her grace the covers of prominent magazines like Elle, Cosmopolitan, and Harper’s Bazaar, establishing her presence in the fashion world. While specific financial figures from her early modeling days are not publicly available, her success in securing high-profile magazine covers and agency representation indicates a lucrative start to her career.
The Real Housewives of New York City and Subsequent Ventures
Kelly Bensimon’s fame escalated when she joined the cast of Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of New York City” in its second season in 2009. As a cast member for three seasons, she gained national recognition, although specific details of her salary per season are not publicly disclosed. However, being on a successful reality TV show like “The Real Housewives” would have significantly contributed to her income. Following her departure from the show in 2011, Kelly transitioned into becoming an author and lifestyle expert. She has written several books, including “In The Spirit of The Hamptons,” “American Style,” and “I Can Make You Hot!: The Supermodel Diet.” The revenue generated from book sales and related ventures would have added to her net worth. She reportedly closed $50 million worth of real estate deals in 2021 alone. The commissions earned from these transactions would have substantially boosted her income that year.
Real Estate and Property Assets
One of Kelly Bensimon’s notable assets is a five-bedroom mansion in East Hampton. Gilles Bensimon, her former husband, originally purchased this property in 1994 for $700,000. In 1998, during their marriage, they completed construction on a 5,800 square foot mansion on the 1.25-acre lot. Following their divorce in 2007, Kelly took ownership of the home. In 2009, she listed the property for sale at $12 million and also offered it for rent at $250,000 per month. Ultimately, in November 2012, she sold the mansion for $5.7 million. This real estate transaction demonstrates her ability to manage and capitalize on property assets, contributing significantly to her overall net worth.
Other Ventures and Income Streams
In addition to her work in television, writing, and real estate, Kelly Bensimon has also engaged in entrepreneurial ventures. She launched her own jewelry line, Kelly Killoren by Kelly Bensimon, featuring unique, handmade pieces that reflect her personal style. While specific revenue figures from her jewelry line are not publicly available, this venture adds another stream of income to her portfolio. Furthermore, Kelly has worked as a columnist and editor for various publications, sharing her insights on style, travel, and wellness. The income derived from these editorial contributions further enhances her financial standing. Kelly is also an experienced and successful real estate agent with Douglas Elliman. In recent years she has developed a career as a high-end real estate agent, closing $50 million worth of real estate deals in 2021 alone. The commissions earned from these transactions would have substantially boosted her income that year.
Philanthropic Activities
Kelly Bensimon has actively supported various charities and causes, focusing on issues related to women’s health, animal welfare, and the environment. Over the years, she has collaborated with organizations like Generosity Water, the Humane Society, and the American Cancer Society. While her philanthropic activities may not directly contribute to her net worth, they reflect her values and commitment to social responsibility. There are no specific monetary donation amounts available for public record.
Marriage and Family
Kelly married French fashion photographer Gilles Bensimon in 1997, who was also the creative director of Elle magazine at the time. The couple had two daughters, Sea and Thadeus, before their divorce in 2007. Upon their divorce Kelly received the couple’s five-bedroom mansion in East Hampton. Gilles bought this mansion in 1994 for $700,000. Set on 1.25 acres, in 1998, a year into their marriage, Gilles and Kelly completed construction on a 5,800 square foot mansion on the lot. Details of any alimony or child support agreements are not publicly available.
