Shanna Lynn Moakler, born on March 28, 1975, in Providence, Rhode Island, is an American actress, model, and beauty pageant titleholder.
Of German, Irish, Portuguese, and Polish descent, she grew up in a lively household that shaped her spirited personality.
Moakler’s early years were marked by a tomboyish charm, with weekends spent at her grandfather’s farm fostering a love for outdoor activities.
A competitive roller skater for 12 years, she participated in competitions akin to ice skating, showcasing her drive and discipline.
At Barrington High School, she initially felt like an outsider but eventually found her footing, dating the football team captain and earning the title of best dressed.
Moakler’s journey into the spotlight began at 15 with modeling, leading her to move to Miami, New York City, and later Los Angeles to pursue her career.
Siblings
Shanna grew up with three siblings, two older brothers, John W. Moakler IV and Kirk Moakler, and an older half-sister, Michelle Tucker, who tragically passed away in 2012.
John W. Moakler IV and Kirk, both mentioned in tributes by Shanna, were part of her close-knit family, sharing memories that she has publicly cherished, such as a 2016 Siblings Day post where she recalled the last time they were all together.
Michelle Tucker, described as Shanna’s half-sister, lost her battle with lung and lymph node cancer in November 2012 in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, leaving behind a husband and a daughter named Brittany.
Shanna organized a fundraiser in Rhode Island to support Michelle’s treatment, reflecting the deep bond they shared.
In a heartfelt 2014 Instagram post for Siblings Day, Shanna honored Michelle alongside her best friend Mason, noting how much she missed them.
The loss of Michelle, followed by the deaths of their parents, Gail in January 2023 and John W. Moakler III in August 2023, profoundly impacted Shanna.
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Career
Moakler’s career spans modeling, pageantry, acting, and reality television, reflecting her versatility and resilience.
She began modeling at 15, appearing in publications like Cosmopolitan and Brentwood, and later became Playboy’s Playmate of the Month in December 2001.
Her pageantry career took off at 17 when she represented Rhode Island in the Miss Teen USA 1992 pageant, finishing seventh overall, and won the Miss Teen All American title in 1993.
In 1995, she clinched the Miss New York USA title and became Miss USA after the original winner, Chelsi Smith, won Miss Universe.
Moakler’s acting career kicked off with guest roles in 1996 on shows like Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman and Due South.
She gained prominence as Officer Monica Harper on the USA Network’s Pacific Blue from 1998 to 2000.
Her film roles include The Wedding Singer (1998), Love Stinks (1999), and Big Momma’s House 2 (2006).
In 2005, she starred in the MTV reality series Meet the Barkers alongside then-husband Travis Barker, offering a glimpse into their family life.
Moakler hosted E!’s Bridalplasty in 2010-2011 and joined VH1’s Hollywood Exes in 2014.
Since 2012, she has served as executive producer of the Miss Nevada USA pageant and acquired the Miss Utah USA franchise in 2018, solidifying her influence in the pageant world.
Accolades
Moakler’s crowning as Miss New York USA in 1995 and subsequent ascension to Miss USA after Chelsi Smith’s Miss Universe win marked significant milestones in her pageant career.
She also earned the Miss Teen All American title in 1993, showcasing her early prowess in national competitions.
As a model, being named Playboy’s Playmate of the Month in December 2001 added to her visibility in the industry.
Her acting roles, particularly as a series regular on Pacific Blue and appearances in films like The Wedding Singer, earned her recognition in Hollywood.
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