Nicole Murphy is a talented model, entrepreneur, and reality TV star who has captured attention with her grace and determination. Best known for her high-profile marriage to comedian Eddie Murphy and her work in fashion, she has built a life full of achievements. In this Nicole Murphy biography and net worth overview, you’ll learn about her journey from a young girl in California to a successful businesswoman with a fortune earned through hard work and smart choices.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nicole Ronnette Mitchell Murphy |
| Nickname / Stage Name | Nicole Murphy, Niki Murphy |
| Date of Birth | January 5, 1968 |
| Age | 57 (as of early 2026) |
| Birthplace | Sacramento, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Model, Entrepreneur, Television Personality, Producer |
| Known For | International modeling career, star of “Hollywood Exes,” ex-wife of Eddie Murphy, skincare and jewelry businesses |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) |
| Family / Spouse | Ex-husband: Eddie Murphy (married 1993-2006); Children: Bria (born 1989), Myles (born 1992), Shayne (born 1994), Zola (born 1999), Bella (born 2002); Previously engaged to Michael Strahan; Currently dating Marcus Jordan |
| Education | Limited public information available; began modeling career at age 13 |
| Social Media Followers | Approximately 1 million on Instagram (@nikimurphy) |
| Estimated Net Worth | $10 million |
Early Life & Background
Nicole Murphy grew up in Sacramento, California, in a family that blended cultures and experiences. Her mother, Ellen, was a British homemaker, while her father, Eddie “Mitch” Mitchell, served as an African American pilot in the United States Air Force. Her parents separated when she was young, leaving her mother to raise Nicole and her three brothers mostly on her own. Later, her parents reunited, bringing some stability back to the family.
From a young age, Nicole showed a spark for the spotlight. At just 13, she entered and won an international modeling competition, which opened doors to a contract with the prestigious Ford Models agency. This early win set her on a path toward fame, as she moved to Europe to pursue modeling full-time. Her childhood interests in fashion and beauty shaped her future, turning what could have been a tough upbringing into a launchpad for success.
Career Journey & Achievements
Nicole’s career took off in her teens when she signed with Ford Models and headed to Paris to work with Glamour Models. For seven years, she walked runways and appeared in print ads for top designers like Chanel, Valentino, Yves Saint Laurent, and Ungaro. These experiences built her reputation as a sought-after model in Europe, where she honed her skills and gained international exposure.
Breaking into Television and Reality TV
In the 2010s, Nicole transitioned to television. From 2012 to 2014, she starred in and produced the VH1 reality series “Hollywood Exes,” which followed the lives of women who had been married to famous men. The show gave viewers a glimpse into her world after her divorce, showcasing her strength and personality. She also appeared on “Global Beauty Masters” and took on small acting roles in independent films like “Shut the Fuck Up” (2009) and “Just Love” (2016).
Business Ventures
Nicole didn’t stop at modeling and TV. She launched her own jewelry line, FLP by Nicole Murphy, in 2009, offering stylish pieces that reflected her elegant taste. In 2018, she introduced ZOBELA, an anti-aging skincare line, which she later evolved into YFOY, focusing on products that promote youthful skin. She partnered with Red Styxx Beverage to create a premium Moscato wine line, expanding her brand into lifestyle products. These ventures highlight her entrepreneurial spirit and ability to turn passions into profitable businesses.
Her biggest career turning point came after overcoming financial setbacks, including a major investment loss. She rebuilt by focusing on what she loved: beauty, fashion, and sharing her story, proving resilience in a competitive industry.
Personal Life & Relationships
Nicole’s personal life has often made headlines, starting with her marriage to Eddie Murphy. They met at the 1988 NAACP Image Awards and tied the knot in 1993. Together, they had five children: daughters Bria, Shayne, Zola, and Bella, and son Myles. The couple divorced in 2005 due to irreconcilable differences, but Nicole received a $15 million settlement.
After the divorce, she dated NFL star Michael Strahan from 2007 to 2014, even getting engaged and buying a $16 million mansion together in Los Angeles. They split amicably due to busy schedules. Nicole has also been linked to figures like Nick Cannon, basketball player Jimmy Jackson, and rapper Drake. In 2019, she made news for a kiss with married director Antoine Fuqua during a trip to Italy. More recently, at 57, she’s been spotted dating 33-year-old Marcus Jordan, son of basketball legend Michael Jordan, showing her embrace of life’s joys.
Beyond relationships, Nicole focuses on fitness and wellness. She shares tips on staying youthful through mindset, laughter, and skincare routines on social media. Her hobbies include traveling, spending time with family, and promoting a positive, elegant lifestyle.
Net Worth & Financial Overview
Nicole Murphy’s estimated net worth stands at $10 million, though some sources suggest it could be between $10 million and $11 million as of 2025. Keep in mind, these figures are estimates based on public data from sites like CelebrityNetWorth, as exact details are private.
Her wealth comes from multiple sources. Early modeling contracts with top brands provided a strong foundation. The $15 million divorce settlement from Eddie Murphy was significant, but she lost about $7 million in a 2006 investment fraud scheme involving a childhood friend. Despite this setback and other financial challenges in 2010, like owing money on a mortgage and to the IRS, she bounced back.
Today, her income streams include earnings from “Hollywood Exes,” her jewelry line FLP, skincare brand YFOY, and wine partnerships. Endorsements, appearances, and social media influence add to her fortune. Nicole’s story shows how she turned obstacles into opportunities, building wealth through creativity and persistence.
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Nicole started modeling at 13 after winning a competition, kickstarting a career that took her across Europe.
- She produced “Hollywood Exes,” giving her a behind-the-scenes role in reality TV.
- In 2010, she faced tough financial times but recovered by launching successful businesses.
- She’s a fitness enthusiast who credits her youthful look to a positive mindset and anti-aging products.
- Nicole has appeared in indie films, showing her range beyond modeling.
- Her family ties run deep: Her daughter Bria is an actress and model, following in her footsteps.
Impact & Legacy
Nicole Murphy matters because she represents resilience in the face of public scrutiny. As a model, she broke barriers by working with elite brands at a young age, inspiring women in fashion. Through “Hollywood Exes,” she showed the real side of life after fame, helping others navigate divorce and reinvention.
Her influence extends to entrepreneurship, where her beauty and lifestyle brands empower women to embrace aging gracefully. In culture, she sparks conversations about blended families, relationships, and personal growth. Fans admire her for staying elegant and positive, proving that a true legacy comes from overcoming challenges and living authentically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nicole Murphy’s net worth is estimated at $10 million, primarily from modeling, TV, business ventures, and her divorce settlement. Figures are approximations from public sources.
She rose to fame as a model in her teens, working with top designers in Europe. Her marriage to Eddie Murphy and role on “Hollywood Exes” boosted her visibility.
Her achievements include a successful modeling career, producing and starring in “Hollywood Exes,” launching brands like FLP jewelry and YFOY skincare, and raising five children while rebuilding after financial losses.
As of 2025, Nicole is focusing on her skincare business, YFOY, and sharing wellness tips on social media. She’s dating Marcus Jordan and enjoying a vibrant, active lifestyle.
Yes, she owns FLP jewelry, YFOY skincare, and has a wine line with Red Styxx Beverage.
She has five children with ex-husband Eddie Murphy: Bria, Myles, Shayne, Zola, and Bella.
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