Jeannie Mai is a name that has become synonymous with style, fashion, and television. With a net worth of $4 million, she has carved her own unique path in the world of entertainment. Let’s dive into the fascinating journey of this talented television presenter and celebrity stylist, exploring her early life, career milestones, and personal life.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Jeannie Mai’s story begins in San Jose, California, where she was born in 1979 to parents Olivia and James. Her rich cultural heritage includes Vietnamese roots from her mother’s side and Chinese-Vietnamese ancestry from her father’s side. As a teenager, Jeannie attended Milpitas High School, but her passion for makeup artistry soon led her on a different path.
At the tender age of 18, Jeannie embarked on her career as a makeup artist with MAC Cosmetics. Her talent and creativity quickly caught the eye of celebrities like Alicia Keys and Christina Aguilera, taking her on a whirlwind journey around the world. This exposure elevated her status, turning her into a sought-after celebrity makeup stylist for prominent shows like MTV’s “Total Request Live” and Los Angeles’ KCAL station.
Breaking into Television Hosting
Jeannie Mai’s transition from makeup artist to television personality began in 2003 when she started auditioning for hosting roles with local television networks. Her breakthrough came when she was hired to co-host “Stir,” the first nationally distributed Asian-American show. This experience paved the way for her to become a producer and entertainment reporter on WB’s “The Daily Mixx.”
In 2005, Jeannie Mai took her first primetime hosting role on the USA Network’s “Character Fantasy.” Her vibrant personality and natural charm made her a favorite among viewers. Subsequently, she graced MTV’s “Granted” alongside Frankie Muniz and hosted fashion and entertainment news segments on major networks like Lifetime, TLC, E!, and NBC. Additionally, Jeannie joined the beauty squad on TLC’s “10 Years Younger” and even hosted “Miss America” in 2008.
The Big Break: “How Do I Look?”
Jeannie Mai’s career reached new heights in 2009 when she became the host of the makeover show “How Do I Look?” This show, broadcast on the Style Network, captivated audiences as contestants received full wardrobe makeovers, transforming their fashion sense and lifestyle. Jeannie’s infectious enthusiasm and fashion expertise made her the perfect fit for the show, and it quickly became a hit.
Jeannie Mai’s Net Worth and Further Television Success
Beyond “How Do I Look?” Jeannie’s television career continued to flourish. She served as a correspondent and weekend host on NBC’s “Extra TV” with Mario Lopez and began hosting the prestigious Miss Universe pageant in 2011. Additionally, she became a fashion consultant on NBC’s weight-loss competition show, “The Biggest Loser.”
Jeannie’s versatility in the television world was on full display as she hosted the stylist competition show “The Next Style Star,” worked as a digital correspondent for NBC’s “Fashion Star,” and even appeared as a guest judge on “Asia’s Next Top Model.”
In 2013, Jeannie Mai hosted the live weekly series “Style Pop” on the Style Network. Her dynamic presence and fashion-forward insights continued to win hearts. That same year, she embarked on a new venture, co-hosting the daytime talk show “The Real” alongside Tamera Mowry, Tamar Braxton, Loni Love, and Adrienne Bailon.
Their chemistry on-screen earned them accolades, including the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host in 2018, as well as NAACP Image Awards in 2018 and 2019.
Jeannie’s television repertoire expanded to include hosting the GSN reality competition show “Steampunk” and becoming a fashion correspondent on CBS’s “Entertainment Tonight.” In 2019, she added a sporty twist to her career as the sideline correspondent on the sports reality competition show “Holey Moley,” co-hosted by Rob Riggle and Joe Tessitore.
A Dancing Detour and Other Endeavors
Jeannie Mai’s journey took an unexpected turn when she joined the 29th season of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.” However, due to a diagnosis of epiglottitis, an inflammatory condition, she had to leave the show prematurely. Her resilience and determination were evident as she faced this health challenge head-on.
Beyond television, Jeannie Mai served as a resident contributor to the fashion website Cocoperez.com, managed by Perez Hilton. She also made a significant impact as an ambassador for ReimagineMyself.com, an initiative empowering those living with relapsing multiple sclerosis.
Personal Life and Real Estate
In her personal life, Jeannie Mai’s journey has been marked by love and change. She married Freddy Harteis in August of 2007, but over ten years later, in October of 2017, they announced their divorce, which was finalized in December of 2018. Shortly before her divorce, Jeannie began dating rapper Jay Jenkins, known by his stage name, Jeezy. In March of 2020, they got engaged and tied the knot the following year.
In terms of real estate, Jeannie Mai’s taste is as distinctive as her fashion sense. Her first marital home was a 2,400-square-foot, cabin-like residence in Los Angeles, beautifully renovated by interior designer Jinnie Choi. The rustic abode boasted unique details like a birdcage chandelier, a California redwood bar table, and reclaimed industrial pieces. Later, she purchased a home in Atlanta, Georgia, where she exchanged vows with Jay Jenkins in an intimate backyard ceremony.
Jeannie Mai’s net worth of $4 million is a testament to her talent, hard work, and dedication. Her journey from a makeup artist to a beloved television personality showcases her ability to reinvent herself and continue to inspire audiences around the world. With her infectious enthusiasm and impeccable style, Jeannie Mai is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment.