Jonathan Knight Net Worth

Jonathan Knight: From NKOTB Heartthrob to HGTV Star – A Look at His Net Worth and Life

What is Jonathan Knight’s Net Worth?

Jonathan Knight, the iconic singer and former member of the globally successful boy band New Kids on the Block (NKOTB), has amassed a net worth of $14 million. This figure reflects his successful career in music, as well as his ventures in real estate development and television.

New Kids on the Block, known for their catchy pop tunes and energetic performances, dominated the music scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The group’s debut album went triple platinum in the United States, and they sold over 70 million albums worldwide, solidifying their place in pop music history. Knight’s time with NKOTB, however, was cut short when he left the band during their “Face the Music” tour in 1994.

Following his departure from the entertainment industry, Knight transitioned into a successful career in real estate development. In 2021, he expanded his professional profile by becoming the host of HGTV’s “Farmhouse Fixer,” showcasing his passion for renovating and restoring historic homes.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, on November 29, 1968, Jonathan Knight’s early life was marked by a large family and a strong connection to his community. He was the fifth of six children born to Marlene and Allan Knight, who had roots in Ontario, Canada. Growing up, Knight regularly attended the local Episcopal church, where he sang in the choir. It was during this time that his natural talent for singing was discovered, alongside his younger brother, Jordan.

The Formation of New Kids on the Block

Jonathan Knight’s journey with NKOTB began at the age of 16, when his younger brother, Jordan, was invited to join the group by Donnie Wahlberg. Wahlberg himself had been discovered by talent agent Mary Alford, who was tasked by producer Maurice Starr to assemble the next big boy band. Starr had previously found success with groups like New Edition.

The original lineup consisted of Wahlberg, the Knight brothers, Wahlberg’s younger brother, Mark, and friends Jamie Kelly and Danny Wood. However, Mark and Jamie soon left the group. Joey McIntyre, who was just 12 years old at the time, was added to complete the final quintet that would become New Kids on the Block.

Under Starr’s guidance, the band rehearsed after school and on weekends, originally going by the name Nynuk. Columbia Records, who signed the band, insisted on the name change to New Kids on the Block. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1986, initially didn’t achieve significant success despite Starr’s efforts.

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NKOTB’s Rise to Fame and Jonathan’s Departure

The band members took a more active role in shaping the sound of their second album, seeking to move away from Starr’s bubblegum-pop style. The release of their single “Please Don’t Go Girl” in 1988 marked a turning point, climbing to No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. This success fueled the popularity of their second album, “Hangin’ Tough,” which gained momentum through extensive touring and increased airplay on MTV.

The early 1990s were a period of unprecedented success for NKOTB. They released their third album, “Step by Step,” in 1990, featuring more songs written by the band. The group embarked on tours across the United States, Europe, and Asia, solidifying their global fanbase. However, during the “Face the Music” tour, Knight began experiencing heightened anxiety, ultimately leading to his decision to leave the group.

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Other Professional Pursuits: Real Estate and HGTV

After leaving NKOTB, Knight chose to explore opportunities outside of the entertainment industry. While some of his bandmates pursued acting or solo music careers, Knight focused on the business world. He found success in real estate, primarily in his home state of Massachusetts.

Knight’s passion for renovating homes, particularly historic farmhouses, led him to expand into property renovation. His skill and enthusiasm caught the attention of HGTV, resulting in the launch of “Farmhouse Fixer” in March 2021. The show follows Knight as he renovates farmhouses in the New England area, showcasing his expertise and love for preserving historical properties.

The NKOTB Reunion and Continued Success

After a couple of earlier attempts at reuniting failed, Knight and the other members of NKOTB announced their reunion in 2008. They released “The Block,” their first album in 14 years, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums Chart. This was followed by an extensive tour throughout the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe. The tour featured support from major artists like Lady Gaga and Natasha Bedingfield.

The band continued to tour internationally, supported by various prominent artists including the Backstreet Boys, Jordin Sparks, 98 Degrees, Boyz II Men, TLC, and Nelly. In 2014, NKOTB was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to their enduring impact on popular culture.

In 2019, NKOTB released a new music video for “Boys in the Band (Boy Band Anthem).” The video paid tribute to various popular boy bands throughout history, with cameos from members of New Edition, N-Sync, and Naughty by Nature, among others.

Personal Life, Anxiety Struggles, and Relationships

Several years after leaving NKOTB, Knight spoke openly about his struggles with anxiety and panic attacks during his time with the band. In 2000, he revealed that he suffered from generalized anxiety disorder, exacerbated by the band’s rigorous touring schedule and constant public scrutiny.

In 2009, a National Enquirer article revealed that Knight was gay, a fact he had not publicly confirmed at the time. In 2011, Tiffany, with whom Knight had been rumored to have dated years prior, also revealed his sexual orientation. Knight confirmed this later that year. He has stated that he never intentionally hid his sexuality but chose not to publicly announce it.

Since 2008, Knight has been in a relationship with Harley Rodriguez, a personal trainer. In 2015, the couple participated in the reality show “The Amazing Race,” finishing in 9th place. In 2016, while vacationing in Africa, Knight proposed to Rodriguez, and the couple has been engaged since. They reside together in Knight’s farmhouse in Massachusetts.

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Conclusion

Jonathan Knight’s life is a testament to his adaptability and resilience. From his early days as a teen idol in NKOTB to his successful ventures in real estate and television, he has consistently reinvented himself. His journey reflects a blend of musical talent, business acumen, and personal growth, making him an inspiring figure for fans and entrepreneurs alike.