Cynthia Bailey (born February 19, 1967) is an American model, actress, reality TV personality, and podcaster. Raised in Alabama, she moved to New York City at 18, signing with Wilhelmina Models and modeling in Paris and Milan. She appeared in films like Without You I’m Nothing (1990) and For Love or Money (1993) and on shows like The Cosby Show.
Bailey joined The Real Housewives of Atlanta in 2010, showcasing her marriages to Peter Thomas (2010–2017) and Mike Hill (2018–2021). She exited the series in 2021.
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Cynthia Bailey Net Worth
Cynthia Bailey has a net worth of $2 million. On September 8, 2016, she bought a $940,000 home in Sandy Springs, Atlanta, overlooking a small lake. The property features six bedrooms, five bathrooms, and sits on one and a half acres. She calls it “Lake Bailey”.
Initially, she wanted an apartment for a New York City lifestyle, but The Real Housewives of Atlanta producers encouraged her to buy a home instead.
Early Life
Cynthia Bailey was born on February 19, 1967, in Decatur, Alabama, and raised in Tuscumbia. Her father, Elijah, worked at an auto factory, and her mother, Barbara, worked in a sewing factory. Inspired by her grandmother, Mae Frankie Ford, a hardworking entrepreneur, Bailey developed her drive.
She was the first African American homecoming queen at Deshler High School and later enrolled at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. After competing in beauty pageants, she caught the attention of a Wilhelmina Models scout and moved to New York City at age 18.
Career
Bailey arrived in New York City in 1985 and appeared in the 1989 New Order music video “Round and Round” and 1990’s Without You I’m Nothing alongside Sandra Bernhard. She also guest-starred on The Cosby Show and appeared in Heavy D’s 1994 music video “Nuttin But Love.”
Bailey’s modeling career began with a Essence Magazine cover and included work in Paris and Milan, campaigns for Target and Maybelline, and features in Vogue and Elle. She joined The Real Housewives of Atlanta in 2010 after Bravo sought to highlight successful women.
Personal Life
Cynthia Bailey turned down marriage proposals from Jayson Williams and Russell Simmons and had a daughter, Noelle, with actor Leon Robinson in 1999. Noelle, who identifies as sexually fluid, is currently dating Alexis. Bailey married Peter Thomas in 2010, divorced in 2017, and got engaged to Mike Hill in 2019, planning to marry in October 2020.
She considers beating Naomi Campbell for a 1990 film role and modeling in a Vanity Fair cover with Iman among her career highlights. Bailey underwent successful surgery to remove a lipoma tumor in 2018.
Who Was Cynthia Bailey’s First Husband?
Cynthia Bailey’s first husband was Peter Thomas. Their relationship and subsequent marriage were featured on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” including their wedding in season 3.
Conclusion
Cynthia Bailey’s journey from a young model in Alabama to a reality TV icon and businesswoman is a compelling narrative of success and resilience. Her diverse career and savvy business moves have solidified her status as a significant figure in the entertainment industry.
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FAQs About Cynthia Bailey’s Net Worth
- What is Cynthia Bailey’s main source of income?
- Her income primarily comes from her role on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” and her modeling career.
- What impact did reality TV have on Cynthia Bailey’s career?
- Reality TV significantly boosted her public profile and earnings.
- Has Cynthia Bailey ventured into business?
- Yes, she has pursued various business ventures outside of her television and modeling career.
- What challenges has Cynthia Bailey faced in her personal life?
- She has navigated through two marriages and public scrutiny surrounding her relationships.
- How has Cynthia Bailey maintained her relevance in the entertainment industry?
- Her adaptability and ability to diversify her career have kept her relevant in the ever-changing entertainment landscape.