What Is Shaunie O’Neal’s Net Worth?
With a net worth of $35 million, Shaunie O’Neal stands out as an American TV personality and producer. Best known as the ex-wife of NBA star Shaquille O’Neal, she was married to him from 2002 until 2011. Together, they share four children, and prior to their union, Shaunie had one child from a previous relationship. She gained significant recognition as a prominent cast member of the reality series “Basketball Wives,” where she not only starred but also served as an executive producer throughout all five seasons.
Early Life
Va’Shaundya Karlette Nelson, known as Shaunie O’Neal, was born on November 27, 1974, in Wichita Falls, Texas. At the age of ten, she and her family relocated to Los Angeles. Shaunie has two siblings: an older sister and a younger brother. She graduated from the University of Southern California.
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Reality TV Career
Commencing her career in film marketing with Fox Entertainment, O’Neal attracted media attention following her relationship with the renowned basketball star Shaquille O’Neal.
As the executive producer of the VH1 series “Basketball Wives,” Shaunie O’Neal achieved significant fame, becoming one of the network’s most successful producers. By the time she joined the show, she had already been divorced from her husband for several years and was a mother of five. The series features exceptional women like Tami Roman, Evelyn Lozada, and Shaunie, as they navigate the challenges of fame while managing their families and personal lives.
From 2010 to 2013, she functioned as the executive producer for “Basketball Wives” and participated in the VH1 reality shows “Basketball Wives LA” and “Baller Wives.” Shaunie created “Basketball Wives LA,” which aired for five seasons from 2011 to 2016, and she began producing “Baller Wives” upon its 2017 debut. Additionally, she has appeared in the TV series “Shaunie’s Home Court” and produced the 2009 TV movie “The Love Shaq,” in which she also made an appearance. Her credits extend to the 2014 documentary “Dumb It Down” and guest spots on shows like “Wendy: The Wendy Williams Show,” “Hell’s Kitchen,” “The Real,” and others.
In addition to her work in reality television, Shaunie ventured into film marketing and entrepreneurship, launching her own shoe line.
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Personal Life
On December 26, 2002, Shaunie wed Shaquille O’Neal at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Their marriagewas frequently featured in tabloids and in the public eye due to allegations of infidelity from both parties. They welcomed four children during their marriage: Shareef (b. 2000), Amirah (b. 2001), Shaqir (b. 2003), and Me’arah (b. 2006). Shareef played basketball for the LSU Tigers before joining the NBA G League Ignite developmental team.
From a previous relationship, Shaunie has a son named Myles (b. 1997), while Shaq has a daughter named Taahirah with his former girlfriend, Arnetta Yardbourgh. After five years of marriage, on September 4, 2007, Shaquille and Shaunie decided to separate. They reconciled soon after; however, on November 10, 2009, Shaunie filed for divorce, mentioning irreconcilable differences. Their divorce was finalized in 2011. In July 2021, Shaunie publicly introduced her new partner, Keion Henderson, a musician and pastor.
In July 2009, Shaunie experienced a car accident that necessitated a significant recovery period.
Philanthropy
Shaunie consistently participates in a Mission Christmas Eve initiative aimed at assisting the homeless. She initiated a program called “Let’s Talk About It,” where she engages with organizations supporting female entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, inspiring them to feel empowered and successful. She has long been recognized for her commitment to issues concerning the welfare of women and children. In 2011, she collaborated with singer Brandy to host a charity shopping event on the red carpet at Louis Vuitton on Rodeo Drive, attended by several celebrities, with proceeds going to a foundation she established for underprivileged children. Additionally, in 2012, Shaunie was present at the Habitat for Humanity gala held in Los Angeles.