Mary Lee Harvey, born October 20, 1960, is widely recognized as the ex-wife of Steve Harvey, the renowned American comedian, TV host, and producer. At 64 years old, she has lived a life marked by both public attention and personal challenges, primarily due to her high-profile marriage and contentious divorce from Steve Harvey. While her net worth is estimated at $500,000, her story extends beyond her association with the celebrity, encompassing her career as a makeup artist, her role as a mother, and her resilience in navigating a turbulent post-divorce life. This article delves into Mary Lee Harvey’s biography, net worth, age, married life, salary, height, weight, and dating status, offering fresh insights and a human perspective on her journey.
Early Life and Background of Mary Lee Harvey
Born in Arlington, Texas, Mary Lee Harvey grew up in a large family of ten siblings, facing challenges that shaped her resilience. Little is known about her early education, but she attended Delhi High School in Louisiana, where her passion for art and beauty emerged. This interest led her to pursue a career as a professional makeup artist, a field where she honed her skills before meeting Steve Harvey. Her height of 5 feet 7 inches and weight of approximately 143 pounds complement her poised presence, though she has always maintained a low profile compared to her ex-husband’s fame.
Mary’s early life was marked by a desire to create beauty, a passion that translated into her professional endeavors. Her work as a makeup artist allowed her to connect with clients on a personal level, enhancing their confidence through her craft. This career choice reflects her creative spirit, which remains a lesser-known aspect of her identity, overshadowed by her association with Steve Harvey.
Marriage to Steve Harvey: A High-Profile Union
Mary Lee Harvey met Steve Harvey in 1989 at a comedy club in Arlington, Texas, where he was performing as a stand-up comedian. Their connection was immediate, leading to a marriage in 1996 after several years of dating. During their nine-year marriage, they welcomed their son, Wynton Harvey, born on July 18, 1997. Mary supported Steve during the early stages of his career, a period when he was transitioning from stand-up comedy to television stardom with shows like The Steve Harvey Show.
However, their marriage faced significant challenges. Mary alleged infidelity on Steve’s part, claiming he began a relationship with Marjorie Bridges, his current wife, during their marriage. These allegations contributed to their divorce in 2005, which was finalized in Texas District Court. The divorce was highly publicized, drawing media attention due to Mary’s claims and the subsequent legal battles. Despite the controversy, Mary received a settlement including three properties, $40,000 monthly alimony until March 2009, and a $1.5 million lump sum.
“The divorce was a turning point, not just for my personal life but for how I viewed resilience and self-worth,” Mary reportedly shared in a rare interview, highlighting the emotional toll of the split.
Post-Divorce Challenges and Legal Battles
The aftermath of the divorce was tumultuous for Mary Lee Harvey. A custody battle over their son, Wynton, resulted in Steve gaining primary custody in 2011, when Wynton was eight years old. Mary’s public statements about the divorce, including YouTube videos in 2011, violated a court-imposed gag order, leading to her 30-day imprisonment for contempt of court in 2013. She also filed a $60 million lawsuit against Steve in 2018, alleging emotional distress and “soul murder,” but the case was dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
These legal battles painted Mary as a polarizing figure, with some viewing her as a victim of a high-profile divorce and others labeling her actions as vindictive. From a fresh perspective, Mary’s outspokenness can be seen as an attempt to reclaim her narrative in a media landscape dominated by Steve Harvey’s success. Her struggles highlight the challenges faced by ex-spouses of celebrities, who often navigate public scrutiny and financial disparities post-divorce.
Mary Lee Harvey’s Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Mary Lee Harvey’s net worth is estimated at $500,000, derived from her career as a makeup artist, her divorce settlement, and potential personal ventures. While her salary as a makeup artist is not publicly detailed, industry standards suggest an average annual income of $60,000–$70,000 for professionals in her field. The divorce settlement significantly bolstered her wealth, with $40,000 monthly payments and a $1.5 million lump sum providing financial stability. However, her net worth pales in comparison to Steve Harvey’s estimated $200 million, highlighting the economic disparity post-divorce.
Mary’s financial journey underscores the importance of long-term planning for individuals transitioning out of high-profile marriages. Her ability to maintain a modest net worth despite legal and personal challenges demonstrates resilience, though her financial status remains a point of public curiosity.
Current Life: Age, Dating, and Personal Growth
At 64 years old, Mary Lee Harvey resides in Texas, leading a private life away from the media spotlight. There is no confirmed information about her dating status or whether she has remarried, though unverified reports suggest a possible marriage to a man named Vaughn. Mary’s focus appears to be on personal growth and her role as a mother to Wynton, who has pursued a career in photography and fashion at the Savannah College of Art and Design.
Mary’s hobbies, including reading, cooking, photography, yoga, and walking, reflect a commitment to self-care and creativity. These activities offer a glimpse into her life beyond the headlines, showcasing a woman who has sought balance and fulfillment despite past turmoil. Her story resonates with many who face the challenge of rebuilding their identity after a high-profile relationship.
Mary Lee Harvey Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mary Lee Shackelford Harvey |
| Date of Birth | October 20, 1960 |
| Age | 64 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Arlington, Texas, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches |
| Weight | 143 pounds |
| Profession | Makeup Artist |
| Net Worth | $500,000 |
| Salary | Estimated $60,000–$70,000 annually (makeup artist industry average) |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Steve Harvey, 1996–2005); possibly remarried (unconfirmed) |
| Children | Wynton Harvey (born July 18, 1997) |
| Education | Delhi High School, Louisiana |
| Known For | Ex-wife of Steve Harvey, makeup artist |
| Hobbies | Reading, cooking, photography, yoga, walking |
| Current Residence | Texas, USA |
| Social Media Presence | None (maintains a private life) |
Unique Insights and Perspective
Mary Lee Harvey’s story is more than a celebrity divorce narrative; it’s a case study in resilience and the complexities of public life. Her experience highlights the emotional and financial toll of high-profile divorces, particularly for women who may lose social and economic status post-separation. Unlike Steve Harvey, who leveraged his fame to build a $200 million empire, Mary faced significant setbacks, including legal battles and public criticism. Her journey underscores the need for mental health support and legal protections for individuals navigating similar circumstances.
A unique angle is Mary’s role as a makeup artist, a profession that requires creativity and empathy. This career choice reflects her desire to empower others, a quality that deserves more recognition. Additionally, her son Wynton’s success as a photographer and fashion enthusiast suggests a family legacy of creativity, which Mary likely nurtured during his early years.
Conclusion
Mary Lee Harvey, at 64 years old, remains a figure of intrigue due to her past marriage to Steve Harvey and her resilience in the face of adversity. With a net worth of $500,000, a career as a makeup artist, and a life dedicated to personal growth, she has carved a path distinct from her ex-husband’s spotlight. Her story serves as a reminder of the strength required to rebuild after public and personal challenges. For more on her ex-husband’s career, visit Steve Harvey’s Wikipedia page or follow him on Instagram. For insights into her son’s work, check Wynton Harvey’s photography portfolio.
