Shamea Morton, a familiar face to fans of Bravo’s hit reality series The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA), has built an impressive career that spans cheerleading, acting, hosting, and reality television. With an estimated net worth of $12 million as of 2025, Morton has solidified her place as one of Atlanta’s notable socialites and businesswomen. Known for her candid personality and loyalty to her friends, especially her close bond with RHOA star Porsha Williams, Morton has managed to balance fame, family, and business ventures with remarkable poise. In this article, we delve into Shamea Morton’s journey, exploring her early life, career, family, and the sources behind her substantial net worth.
Early Life and Passion for Performance
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Shamea Morton displayed a natural flair for performance from a young age. Now 41 years old, she cultivated her talents early on, focusing on dance, cheerleading, and music. Although Morton has kept much of her early childhood private, her enthusiasm for the arts was evident through her involvement in cheerleading. This passion eventually led her to professional cheerleading roles with two of Atlanta’s major sports teams—the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks. Performing in front of large crowds honed her charisma and stage presence, skills that would later prove invaluable in her television career.
During her time as a cheerleader, Morton also explored her musical talents, performing in various local events and occasionally singing the national anthem at sports games. Her versatility in both dance and music set the stage for her future in the entertainment industry, paving the way for her transition to television and radio.
A Breakthrough in Reality Television
Shamea Morton’s journey into reality TV began around 2015 when she made her debut on The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Though not a full-time housewife, her role as a “Friend of the Housewives” quickly gained traction. Her straightforward nature, combined with her loyalty to her friends, made her a fan favorite. Morton’s close friendship with Porsha Williams became a central theme on the show, often bringing both drama and comic relief to various episodes.
Morton’s time on RHOA was marked by memorable moments, from navigating complex friendships to addressing personal challenges. Her ability to hold her own amidst the show’s notorious conflicts showcased her confidence and authenticity. This relatability resonated with viewers, significantly boosting her popularity and influence.
Aside from her reality TV career, Morton explored opportunities in radio. She served as a radio personality for Atlanta’s V-103, where her engaging personality and familiarity with Atlanta’s social scene made her a hit with listeners. This diversification of her media presence helped strengthen her brand, contributing significantly to her net worth.
The Fortune Behind Shamea Morton’s Net Worth
As of 2025, Shamea Morton’s net worth is estimated to be $12 million. A significant portion of her wealth comes from her television appearances and endorsement deals. Her recurring role on RHOA, though not as lucrative as that of full-time cast members, still provided a substantial income due to the show’s high ratings and Morton’s ability to negotiate favorable contracts. Additionally, her exposure on the show opened doors to various business opportunities and partnerships.
Morton’s earnings are also bolstered by her investments in real estate. In May 2022, Shamea and her husband, Gerald Mwangi, made headlines with the purchase of a sprawling 21,000-square-foot mansion in Atlanta for $9 million. This impressive property, featuring state-of-the-art amenities and luxurious finishes, not only reflects her financial success but also serves as a potential investment asset.
Furthermore, Morton has explored other business ventures, including endorsements on social media, which have become a lucrative revenue stream. Her active presence on Instagram, where she shares glimpses of her family life and professional endeavors, has attracted numerous brand partnerships.
Marriage and Family Life
Shamea Morton’s personal life took center stage in July 2017 when she married Gerald Mwangi, a Kenyan businessman. Their wedding, which beautifully blended American and Kenyan traditions, was featured on RHOA, giving fans an inside look at their intercultural love story. Mwangi, known for his successful business ventures in the construction and real estate sectors, has an impressive net worth of his own, which has further elevated their financial standing.
The couple’s family expanded in 2018 with the birth of their daughter, Shya Nyambura Mwangi. Morton’s social media often highlights her life as a mother, showcasing a blend of family moments and her career pursuits. She has been candid about the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood with her career, resonating with many of her followers.
Morton’s marriage has also offered her a deeper connection to Kenyan culture, which she occasionally incorporates into her social media and RHOA appearances. Her efforts to embrace and share this cultural heritage have endeared her to a broader audience, enhancing her public appeal.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Beyond her professional achievements, Shamea Morton is committed to giving back to the community. She has participated in numerous charitable events across Atlanta, supporting causes related to education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Morton’s involvement in charity work has not only expanded her influence but also reinforced her image as a relatable and compassionate public figure.
In addition to fundraising and charity events, Morton has used her platform to address social issues and advocate for greater representation of Black women in media. Her willingness to speak out on important topics has garnered respect from fans and peers alike.