LuAnn de Lesseps is an American television personality, former model, author, cabaret performer, and entrepreneur who has an estimated net worth of $25 million. Best known for her long-running role on Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York City, LuAnn has built her wealth through reality television salaries, music releases, book sales, cabaret tours, and real estate investments.
Often referred to as “The Countess,” LuAnn became one of the most recognizable and enduring figures in the Real Housewives franchise, successfully transforming her on-screen persona into a multi-faceted entertainment and business career.
| LuAnn de Lesseps Net Worth | $25 Million |
| Date of Birth | May 17, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Berlin, Connecticut |
Early Life
LuAnn de Lesseps was born LuAnn Nadeau on May 17, 1965, in Berlin, Connecticut. She grew up in a large family with six siblings. Her father owned a construction company, which instilled in her an early understanding of business, discipline, and hard work.
Before fame, LuAnn pursued a career in healthcare and became a licensed practical nurse, working in a nursing home caring for elderly patients. She has often credited her nursing background for teaching her interpersonal skills and emotional resilience—qualities that later helped her navigate the pressures of public life and reality television.
Modeling Career
After leaving nursing, LuAnn transitioned into modeling and was signed with Wilhelmina Models, launching a successful international modeling career. Her life took a dramatic turn in 1993 when she married Count Alexandre de Lesseps, a French aristocrat and diplomat.
Through this marriage, LuAnn gained the noble title that would define her public image: “The Countess.” The couple had two children, Victoria and Noel, before divorcing in 2009 following Alexandre’s infidelity. Despite the divorce, LuAnn retained her iconic Countess persona, which later became a central part of her brand.
The Real Housewives of New York City
LuAnn joined the original cast of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York City when the show premiered in 2008. She quickly stood out for her refined demeanor, etiquette-focused advice, and unapologetic confidence.
With the exception of Season 6, when she appeared as a “Friend of the Housewives,” LuAnn remained a full-time cast member for most of the show’s run. Her evolution—from aristocratic socialite to openly flawed, self-aware reality star—made her one of the most compelling figures on the series.
At her peak, LuAnn reportedly earned hundreds of thousands of dollars per season, significantly contributing to her overall net worth.
Music, Cabaret, and Entertainment Ventures
LuAnn successfully leveraged her reality TV fame into a music and live performance career. In 2010, she released her debut single, “Money Can’t Buy You Class,” which became a cult favorite among Bravo fans. She followed it with:
- “Chic, C’est La Vie” (2011)
- “Girl Code” (2015)
Her music career later evolved into a successful cabaret act, headlining shows such as #CountessAndFriends, which debuted in 2018 at Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York City. The show sold out and led to a national tour, generating substantial income and solidifying LuAnn as a live performer beyond reality television.
Author
In addition to performing, LuAnn expanded her brand through publishing and acting. In 2009, she released her book:
“Class with the Countess: How to Live with Elegance and Flair”
The book offered lifestyle advice and capitalized on her RHONY image.
LuAnn also made guest appearances on television, including an episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and appeared in the film “Movie of All Secrets” (2020), filmed in Bermuda.
Legal Issues
In December 2017, LuAnn was arrested in Palm Beach, Florida, on multiple charges including disorderly intoxication, resisting arrest, and battery of a police officer. The incident became a major storyline on RHONY.
Following the arrest, LuAnn entered rehabilitation for alcohol abuse. In 2018, she pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges, completed community service, attended Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, and agreed to abstain from alcohol for one year.
After a probation violation in 2019, she briefly returned to custody but later completed her probation. Since then, LuAnn has publicly embraced sobriety and mental health advocacy.
LuAnn de Lesseps Relationships
LuAnn has been married twice. After divorcing Count Alexandre de Lesseps in 2009, she married Tom D’Agostino Jr. on December 31, 2016. Their marriage lasted less than a year, ending in divorce in 2017.
She shares a close relationship with her two children, Victoria and Noel, both of whom have appeared on RHONY over the years.
Real Estate
Real estate has played a major role in LuAnn de Lesseps’ net worth.
- In 2013, she purchased a Sag Harbor, New York home for $3.1 million
- She listed the property for $6.25 million in 2018 but later removed it from the market
- The home is now rented during peak summer months for $90,000–$100,000 per month
The property alone represents a significant portion of her overall wealth and continues to generate strong rental income.
LuAnn de Lesseps Net Worth
LuAnn de Lesseps net worth is estimated to be $25 million.
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