Kelly Dodd is a well-known reality TV personality, businesswoman, and social media influencer. She gained widespread fame through The Real Housewives of Orange County (RHOC), where her bold personality and unfiltered opinions made her a standout figure. Over the years, she has been involved in controversies, business ventures, and public debates, making her a frequently discussed celebrity.
Quick Bio of Kelly Dodd
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kelly Dodd (née Meza) |
| Date of Birth | September 26, 1975 |
| Age | 48 years old (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Scottsdale, Arizona, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | TV Personality, Businesswoman |
| Famous For | The Real Housewives of Orange County |
| Marital Status | Married to Rick Leventhal (2020 – Present) |
| Children | One daughter, Jolie |
| Social Media | Instagram, Twitter, YouTube |
Early Life & Background
Kelly Dodd was born in Scottsdale, Arizona, on September 26, 1975. She grew up in a Mexican-American family with strong cultural values. During her early years, Kelly lived in Arizona and California, where she developed a love for fashion and entertainment. Her upbringing was relatively modest, but she always had an outspoken and ambitious personality.
Kelly has a younger brother, Eric Meza, and has often shared that her family played a big role in shaping her strong-willed character. Before stepping into the world of reality TV, she led a private life, balancing her family and professional aspirations.
Age & Physical Appearance
As of 2024, Kelly Dodd is 48 years old, but she continues to look glamorous and stylish. Standing at 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm), Kelly has an athletic build and is known for her bold fashion choices.
She often sports long, brunette hair and prefers trendy and high-end fashion. Over the years, Kelly has maintained her youthful appearance with fitness routines and beauty treatments. Her fans admire her confidence and unapologetic style, making her a fashion inspiration for many.
Career Beginnings
Before becoming a household name, Kelly Dodd had a career in sales and business development. She worked for companies in the beauty and fashion industry, where she developed her sharp business acumen.
Her career took a turn when she decided to step into the entertainment industry, looking for opportunities in television. Although she wasn’t initially famous, her charismatic and outspoken nature eventually paved the way for her breakthrough moment.
Breakthrough with The Real Housewives of Orange County
Kelly Dodd joined Bravo’s reality show The Real Housewives of Orange County (RHOC) in Season 11 (2016). Her fiery personality, blunt honesty, and dramatic confrontations quickly made her a fan-favorite.
On RHOC, she became known for:
Her unfiltered opinions and outspoken nature
Feuds with fellow housewives, including Shannon Beador and Vicki Gunvalson
Her humor and sarcasm, which entertained audiences
Her personal struggles and relationship ups and downs
Kelly’s time on the show was filled with high-profile conflicts, but it also showcased her personal growth and resilience. However, after several seasons, she exited RHOC in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of dramatic and entertaining moments.
Business Ventures & Other Projects
Outside of reality TV, Kelly Dodd has pursued business opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures. Some of her key projects include:
Co-owning a beverage brand – She launched Positive Beverage, a health-focused drink company. However, she later parted ways with the brand due to public controversies.
Brand endorsements – Kelly has collaborated with fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands, leveraging her strong social media presence.
YouTube and podcasting – She and her husband, Rick Leventhal, started a YouTube channel where they discuss entertainment, news, and personal opinions.
Her business ventures have helped her build an independent financial empire, proving she is more than just a reality TV star.
Personal Life & Relationships
Kelly Dodd’s personal life has been highly publicized, especially her romantic relationships and marriages.
First marriage to Michael Dodd (2006-2018) – They had a tumultuous relationship, which was documented on RHOC. They share one daughter, Jolie Dodd.
Marriage to Rick Leventhal (2020 – Present) – After divorcing Michael, Kelly married Rick Leventhal, a former Fox News journalist. Their relationship has been filled with media attention, but they appear to be happy and supportive of each other.
Kelly is also known for her close relationship with her daughter, Jolie, and frequently shares mother-daughter moments on social media.
Controversies & Public Image
Over the years, Kelly Dodd has been at the center of several controversies:
COVID-19 remarks – She faced backlash for making controversial statements about the pandemic.
Feuds with RHOC cast members – Her intense arguments with other housewives have often made headlines.
Political and social comments – She has been involved in several social media debates, which have led to public criticism.
Despite the controversies, Kelly remains outspoken and unapologetic, gaining a mix of loyal supporters and critics.
Social Media Presence
Kelly Dodd has a strong social media presence, where she engages with fans and shares her daily life.
Instagram (@kellyddodd) – Over 750k followers, where she posts lifestyle, fashion, and family moments.
Twitter (@kellydleventhal) – Known for her direct opinions and interactions with fans.
YouTube (Rick & Kelly Show) – Features discussions on current events and entertainment.
Her social media influence plays a significant role in her continued popularity.
Net Worth & Lifestyle
As of 2024, Kelly Dodd’s estimated net worth is $10 million. She has earned wealth from:
RHOC salary – Estimated to be $500K per season
Business ventures and endorsements
Real estate investments
Kelly enjoys a luxurious lifestyle, often traveling, dining at high-end restaurants, and living in a beautiful California home.
Recent News & What She’s Doing Now
Currently, Kelly Dodd remains active in media and business. She continues to:
Run her YouTube show with Rick Leventhal
Explore new business opportunities
Engage with fans through social media
Although she is no longer on RHOC, she still remains a controversial and talked-about celebrity.
Fun Facts About Kelly Dodd
She has Mexican roots and speaks Spanish fluently.
She loves designer fashion and frequently shares her outfits online.
She is an advocate for anti-aging treatments and wellness.
She enjoys golfing and outdoor activities.
Conclusion
Kelly Dodd has had an eventful journey, from reality TV fame to business ventures and public controversies. While she remains a polarizing figure, her impact on RHOC and the entertainment industry is undeniable. Love her or hate her, Kelly continues to be a major talking point in reality television and pop culture.
FAQs About Kelly Dodd
Who is Kelly Dodd?
Kelly Dodd is a TV personality, entrepreneur, and social media influencer, best known for starring in The Real Housewives of Orange County (RHOC).
How old is Kelly Dodd?
Kelly Dodd was born on September 26, 1975, making her 48 years old as of 2024.
What is Kelly Dodd famous for?
She gained fame through RHOC due to her outspoken personality, dramatic feuds, and bold opinions.
Is Kelly Dodd married?
Yes, Kelly Dodd is married to Rick Leventhal, a former Fox News journalist. They tied the knot in 2020.
Does Kelly Dodd have children?
Yes, she has one daughter, Jolie Dodd, from her previous marriage to Michael Dodd.
What is Kelly Dodd’s net worth?
As of 2024, Kelly Dodd’s estimated net worth is $10 million, earned through TV, business ventures, and endorsements.
Why did Kelly Dodd leave RHOC?
She exited RHOC in 2021, reportedly due to controversies and cast reshuffling by Bravo.
What businesses does Kelly Dodd own?
She was involved in Positive Beverage and now focuses on social media projects, endorsements, and YouTube content.
Has Kelly Dodd been involved in controversies?
Yes, she has faced backlash for controversial remarks on COVID-19, political opinions, and feuds with fellow RHOC stars.
Where can I follow Kelly Dodd on social media?
She is active on Instagram (@kellyddodd), Twitter (@kellydleventhal), and YouTube (Rick & Kelly Show), sharing updates on her life.
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