Juanita Jordan, formerly known as Juanita Vanoy, is a prominent figure in the world of former models and celebrities, best known for her marriage to NBA legend Michael Jordan. Her net worth, personal life, and post-divorce ventures have often sparked public interest. As of now, Juanita Jordan’s net worth is estimated to be around $200 million. This impressive figure primarily stems from her divorce settlement with Michael Jordan, which remains one of the largest in celebrity history.
Early Life and Career
Juanita Vanoy was born on June 13, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois. Raised on the south side of Chicago by her parents John and Dorothy Vanoy, Juanita grew up with five siblings: Gwendolyn Hicks, Jacqueline Rogers, Rhonda Armstrong, Bernetta B. Vanoy, and Margaret Vanoy. She attended Christian Fenger High School and later pursued higher education at American University.
Before her high-profile marriage, Juanita worked successfully as a model and secretary. She was also employed as a loan officer while continuing her studies. Her life took a significant turn when she met Michael Jordan at a Chicago Bennigan’s restaurant in 1984. Their meeting, facilitated by a mutual friend, marked the beginning of a relationship that would eventually lead to marriage and significant public attention.
Marriage to Michael Jordan
Juanita and Michael’s relationship began in the mid-1980s, a period when Michael was an emerging NBA rookie with the Chicago Bulls. After a brief courtship, Michael proposed to Juanita in 1987 at Nick’s Fish Market in Chicago. Despite a temporary breakup, the couple rekindled their relationship and married on September 2, 1989, at the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada. By the time of their wedding, they were already parents to their first child, Jeffrey.
Their marriage produced three children: Jeffrey Michael Jordan (born 1988), Marcus James Jordan (born 1990), and Jasmine Jordan (born 1992). Jeffrey and Marcus both pursued college basketball careers but did not enter the NBA. Jeffrey now works for the Jordan Brand’s digital team, while Marcus founded a boutique store called the Trophy Room. Jasmine Jordan, who once worked for the Charlotte Hornets, is now an executive at Nike. She and her husband, NBA player Rakeem Christmas, welcomed a son in 2019, making Juanita and Michael grandparents.
Divorce Settlement
The couple’s relationship saw its share of turbulence. Juanita filed for divorce in 2002 but withdrew the petition after a brief reconciliation. In 2006, they announced their final separation, leading to a divorce that would make headlines due to its substantial settlement. Juanita received a divorce settlement worth $168 million, which included a mix of cash and assets. Adjusted for inflation, this amount is equivalent to approximately $260 million today. This settlement set a record at the time for the largest celebrity divorce settlement, though it has since been surpassed.
Among the assets she received was a seven-acre Lake Shore Drive Penthouse, which she later sold for $3.2 million in 2014. Michael Jordan retained ownership of their custom-built 56,000-square-foot home in suburban Chicago, a property he has unsuccessfully tried to sell, even after reducing the asking price significantly.
Post-Divorce Ventures and Philanthropy
Following her high-profile divorce, Juanita Jordan retreated from the public eye to focus on her children and philanthropic endeavors. She is an avid art collector, with a particular interest in African American artists. Juanita also serves on the board of Reel Beauty Inc., a Chicago-based non-profit organization that mentors young girls. Additionally, she co-founded the Michael and Juanita Endowment Fund, a charity organization.
Juanita’s contributions to society extend beyond her philanthropic work. She has appeared in television series such as “ESPN SportsCentury” in 2000 and “E! True Hollywood Story” in 2006, further cementing her place in the public eye.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of now, Juanita Jordan’s net worth stands at an estimated $200 million. This wealth is largely attributed to the substantial divorce settlement she received. However, her earnings are not solely from her marriage to Michael Jordan. Juanita has made astute investments in real estate and other ventures, ensuring her financial stability and growth.
Despite the divorce, Juanita has maintained a relatively low profile, focusing on her personal interests and philanthropic activities. Her life story is a testament to her resilience and ability to thrive independently, even after a highly publicized marriage and divorce.
Conclusion
Juanita Jordan’s journey from a model and secretary to a wealthy and influential figure is marked by significant life events, including her marriage to and divorce from Michael Jordan. With a net worth of $200 million, she has managed to maintain her financial independence and continue her philanthropic efforts. Her story is a blend of personal triumphs and challenges, reflecting her strength and determination. As she continues to lead a life away from the limelight, Juanita Jordan remains an inspiring figure for many.
