What Is Rene Elizondo Jr. Net Worth’ Net Worth?
As of mid-2024, René Elizondo Jr., a Mexican-American dancer, songwriter, and music video director, has an estimated net worth of $9 million. This wealth is primarily attributed to his multifaceted career in the entertainment industry and a divorce settlement from his marriage to pop singer Janet Jackson. He was born on July 16, 1962, in Durango, Mexico.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
René Elizondo Jr. was born in Durango, Mexico, on July 16, 1962. He embarked on his entertainment career in the early 1980s, initially as a backup dancer for La Toya Jackson, Janet Jackson’s older sister. This role served as his entry point into Janet’s professional and personal life. His early career involved working closely with the Jackson family, which eventually led to a secret marriage with Janet in 1991. Information about his life before becoming a dancer is limited, as Elizondo has kept details about his parents, childhood, and education private. However, it’s known that he has a younger brother, Yuri Elizondo, who is also involved in the entertainment industry.
Contributions to Janet Jackson’s Career
Elizondo’s career significantly intertwined with Janet Jackson’s during their marriage. He directed several of her music videos, including “That’s the Way Love Goes” (1993), “Again” (1993), and “Together Again” (Deeper Remix) (1997). These videos were integral to Jackson’s image and success during the 1990s. Notably, Elizondo co-wrote several songs on Jackson’s album, *The Velvet Rope* (1997). The album, co-produced with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, explored themes such as depression, self-worth, and sexuality. Elizondo’s songwriting credits include “Together Again,” “I Get Lonely,” and “Go Deep.”
Beyond music videos and songwriting, Elizondo played a crucial role in Jackson’s business affairs. He also famously appeared with his hands covering Jackson’s breasts on the September 1993 cover of Rolling Stone magazine. This cover was an expanded version of the artwork for her *Janet* album. He also made an appearance in her “Come Back to Me” music video (1990), from the album *Rhythm Nation (1989)*.
Film Appearances
Elizondo has also made appearances in film. He played the role of “Snake” in the 1984 dance drama *Body Rock*, which starred Lorenzo Lamas. In 1993, he had a minor role as “E.J.” in John Singleton’s *Poetic Justice*, starring Janet Jackson and Tupac Shakur. *Poetic Justice* had a budget of $14 million and grossed $27,515,786 at the domestic box office.
Divorce and Settlement
After nine years of marriage, René Elizondo Jr. and Janet Jackson divorced in 2000. Following the divorce, Elizondo filed a lawsuit against Jackson, seeking a $25 million settlement. He argued that they had shared income and bank accounts throughout their marriage. Although a prenuptial agreement existed, Elizondo claimed he signed it under duress. After a three-year legal battle, a settlement was reached in 2003, with Janet Jackson reportedly paying René Elizondo Jr. $10 million, plus legal fees. This settlement significantly contributed to René Elizondo Jr.’s **net worth**.
Post-Divorce Activities and Later Life
Following his divorce from Janet Jackson, René Elizondo Jr. remarried in August 2010 to Britt Coelho in a private beach ceremony. The couple welcomed a daughter, Elin Elizondo, on October 9, 2011. Elizondo has continued to work in the entertainment industry, directing music videos for artists like AJ McLean and the Backstreet Boys. Recent projects include directing AJ McLean’s music video for “Love Song Love” (2021) and the short film “Boy and a Man” (2019), as well as the Backstreet Boys’ “Chances” music video (2018).