Chrissy Teigen, 39, has become one of the most recognizable faces in entertainment, carving out a career that blends modeling, television, authorship, and influencer fame. With a net worth estimated at $75 million, Teigen’s rise has been powered by smart brand endorsements, successful media ventures, and her marriage to Grammy-winning artist John Legend, with whom she forms one of the wealthiest celebrity couples in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born Christine Diane Teigen on November 30, 1985, in Delta, Utah, Chrissy comes from a multicultural background. Her mother, Vilailuck Teigen, is originally from Thailand, while her father, Ron Teigen Sr., is of Norwegian descent. Early in her childhood, the family moved to Snohomish, Washington, where her parents operated a tavern.
By age 15, Teigen’s life took a turn when her mother moved back to Thailand, and her father relocated them to California. It was there, while working at a surf shop, that she was discovered by a photographer—her unexpected gateway into modeling. This chance encounter led her to sign with IMG Models, eventually launching a career that would span global fashion campaigns and mainstream television.
A Modeling Career That Opened Doors
Teigen’s big break came in 2010 when she debuted in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, earning the title of “Rookie of the Year.” She gained further recognition when she appeared on the magazine’s 50th-anniversary cover, alongside Nina Agdal and Lily Aldridge. These high-profile appearances paved the way for endorsements with brands like Gillette, Olay, and Nike, adding significantly to her income.
She also had a stint as a briefcase model on NBC’s Deal or No Deal, giving her early exposure on television, and later went on to host the reality competition show Model Employee on VH1. Her modeling success, combined with her outspoken and relatable online presence, helped Teigen become more than just a face in fashion—she became a brand.
Television and Media Influence
Teigen has made a successful pivot into television. One of her most recognized roles was co-hosting Lip Sync Battle on Paramount Network (formerly Spike) alongside LL Cool J. Her charisma and comedic timing on the show earned her praise and expanded her fan base beyond modeling audiences.
From 2015 to 2016, she also served as a food stylist and panelist on FABLife, a daytime talk show produced by Tyra Banks. Chrissy’s on-screen appeal has led to appearances in various other shows, including America’s Next Top Model, Ellen’s Game of Games, and her own series Chrissy’s Court, which premiered in 2020 on the streaming platform Quibi and later shifted to Roku.
She has even made animated appearances, lending her voice to the 2021 film The Mitchells vs. the Machines and guest-starring in the sitcom Mr. Mayor the same year.
A Social Media Powerhouse and Influencer
With millions of followers on Instagram and Twitter, Chrissy Teigen is a major force in digital media. Her candid, humorous, and often unfiltered takes on life, motherhood, and pop culture have cultivated a loyal audience that brands are eager to tap into. Teigen has used her online platform to promote everything from cookware to cosmetics and has secured numerous lucrative influencer deals.
Her partnership projects with husband John Legend have included joint endorsements that capitalize on their public image as a relatable, loving couple. These collaborations have brought in millions in shared income and brand value.
Author and Culinary Creator
In addition to modeling and television, Teigen has developed a strong presence in the food and publishing world. She authored the best-selling cookbook “Cravings”, followed by its sequel and a third book, further establishing her brand around lifestyle and family cooking. The cookbooks, along with her “Cravings” website and kitchen product line, have generated millions in revenue.
Her kitchenware line, featuring tools, cookware, and accessories, is sold through major retailers like Target and Cravings by Chrissy Teigen online, blending her love for food with her entrepreneurial instincts.
Personal Life and Family
Chrissy Teigen married John Legend on September 14, 2013, after first meeting him in 2006 during the music video shoot for his song “Stereo”, where she portrayed his love interest. The couple tied the knot in Lake Como, Italy, and have since built a life filled with both professional success and personal milestones.
They are parents to four children: Luna Simone Stephens (born 2016), Miles Theodore Stephens (born 2018), and two more children added in 2022 and 2023, respectively—following a difficult miscarriage in 2020. Teigen has been open about her family journey, frequently sharing her experiences with fertility, loss, and motherhood on social media.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Teigen has earned several accolades, including the Shorty Award for Best Celebrity on Social Media, the Glamour Award for Influencer, and a Goodreads Choice Award for her writing. Her blend of authenticity and media savvy continues to make her one of the most influential personalities in entertainment.