Anna Erika Shay (January 30, 1961 – June 1, 2023) was an American socialite, businesswoman, and television personality, best known for starring on Netflix’s reality series Bling Empire in 2021.
The show showcased the lives of wealthy Asian-Americans in Los Angeles, featuring stars like Cherie Chan, Kane Lim, Christine Chiu, and Kim Lee. Beyond television, Shay was deeply involved in philanthropy through the Shay Foundation, established by her late parents, supporting causes in education, arts, and music.
Table of Contents
Anna Shay Net Worth
Anna Shay had a net worth of $600 million inherited from her father, Edward Shay, founder of Pacific Architects and Engineers (PAE), a major defense contractor for governments like the U.S. and U.K.. Founded in 1955, PAE initially aided Japan’s post-WWII redevelopment.
In 1974, Edward sold a 40% stake, re-acquiring it in 1988. After Edward’s death in 1995, Anna’s brother Allen became CEO. In 2006, PAE was sold to Lockheed Martin for $1.2 billion, providing a massive windfall for Anna, Allen, and their mother.
Early Life
Anna Erika Shay was born in Tokyo, Japan, on January 30, 1961, to Edward Shay, an American businessman, and Ai Oizumi Shay, a Japanese-Russian businesswoman. She moved to Hancock Park, Los Angeles, in 1968. Her mother once smuggled a pet monkey disguised as her sister on a flight.
Shay graduated from Buckley School and attended the University of Southern California. She pursued the arts, focusing on music and film. Known for evading security, she doubled her team after her father’s death but continued her escapades.
Career
Anna Shay was an heiress to Pacific Architects and Engineers (PAE), founded by her father in 1955, and sold with her brother Allen to Lockheed Martin in 2006 for $1.2 billion.
She worked for the Edward A. and Ai O. Shay Family Foundation, focusing on education, arts, and music. In 2021, she debuted on Netflix’s Bling Empire, becoming a breakout star. She initially thought she was a behind-the-scenes consultant and forgot to cash her paycheck. Shay also supported philanthropy, serving on the George Lopez Foundation board.
Personal Life
Anna Shay married Kenneth John Kemp, with whom she had her son Kenneth Edward Shay-Kemp in 1993. Shay divorced amicably four times and raised her son as a single mother.
Known for privacy, she amassed a $600 million fortune, owning valuable jewelry, designer bags, art, and furs. Her Beverly Hills mansion sold for $13.8 million in 2021. Shay’s personal assistant once stole $3.4 million in valuables. She spent time between Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Paris.
What is the cause of death of Anna Shay?
Anna Shay, star of Netflix’s Bling Empire, passed away on June 1, 2023, due to a stroke. Her sudden death shocked many, including co-star Kevin Kreider, who expressed his love and admiration for her. Beyond the show, she was admired for her philanthropic work and contributions to the Shay Foundation, supporting various causes in education, arts, and music.
RELATED: August Anna Brooks: The Melodic Legacy of Garth Brooks’ Daughter
Conclusion
Anna Shay’s life was one of extravagant wealth and profound generosity. Her journey from an heiress to a philanthropist and reality TV star was marked by a dedication to the arts and a deep understanding of her heritage and responsibilities.
FAQ about Anna Shay
- How did Anna Shay become famous?
- Anna Shay gained prominence as a cast member of the Netflix series Bling Empire, where her wealth and personality made her a fan favorite.
- What was Anna Shay’s role in her family’s foundation?
- She worked for the Edward A And Ai O Shay Family Foundation, focusing on educational and arts initiatives.
- Was Anna Shay married?
- Yes, Anna Shay was married and divorced four times, with all divorces reportedly amicable.
- Did Anna Shay have children?
- She had a son, Kenny Kemp, and grandchildren.
- What was a notable sale in Anna Shay’s real estate ventures?
- Shay sold her Sunset Boulevard mansion for $13.8 million in 2021, a property she had purchased for $9.4 million in 2011.
