Tawny Kitaen Net Worth

What Was Tawny Kitaen’s Net Worth? A Look at Her Career and Life

Tawny Kitaen, a name synonymous with 1980s glam rock and a prominent figure in television and film, left behind a legacy that continues to fascinate fans. At the time of her passing on May 7, 2021, she had an estimated net worth of $500,000. This article delves into the life and career of Tawny Kitaen, exploring her rise to fame, her significant relationships, and the challenges she faced.

Early Life

Born Julie Kitaen on August 5, 1961, in San Diego, California, Tawny Kitaen’s early life set the stage for her future in the entertainment industry. Her parents were Linda Kitaen, a homemaker, and Terry Kitaen, who worked in the neon sign business. Raised with her two younger siblings in the Jewish faith, she later adopted the nickname “Tawny” at the age of 12, a name she preferred. Growing up, she struggled with dyslexia, which impacted her academic performance. Kitaen’s formative years included a pivotal moment at a Peter Frampton concert, where she witnessed the preferential treatment given to the musician’s girlfriend. This experience fueled her ambition to achieve a similar status.

Career

Kitaen’s career began with modeling and television commercials. She appeared in ads for Jack LaLanne’s European Health Spas in the early 1980s, which she later credited with solidifying her desire to pursue acting. Her image graced the cover of Ratt’s debut EP, “Ratt,” in the early 80s and later, the band’s first album, “Out of the Cellar” in 1984. During this time, she was romantically involved with the band’s guitarist, Robbin Crosby.

Her film debut included a small role in the television movie “Malibu” (1983). The following year, she starred as the title character in the erotic adventure film, “The Perils of Gwendoline in the Land of the Yik-Yak.” Her role as the bride-to-be in the popular comedy “Bachelor Party” (1984), alongside Tom Hanks, brought her more widespread recognition. Kitaen continued to work steadily, appearing in films such as “Witchboard,” “White Hot,” and “Dead Tides.”

However, Kitaen achieved her breakthrough with her appearances in several music videos for the rock band Whitesnake. She starred in the iconic videos for “Here I Go Again,” “Still of the Night,” “Is This Love,” and “The Deeper the Love.” Her energetic presence and striking looks in these videos made her a staple of the MTV generation. She also appeared in the music video “Back for More” by the band Ratt.

Kitaen’s acting career continued into the late 1980s and early 1990s with roles in television. She played Lisa DiNapoli in the daytime soap opera “Santa Barbara” in 1989, followed by a guest appearance on “Seinfeld” as Jerry’s girlfriend in 1991. She played Mona Loveland in “The New WKRP in Cincinnati” from 1991 to 1993. Additionally, she had recurring roles in “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys.” Kitaen also co-hosted the show “America’s Funniest People” from 1992 to 1994.

Personal Life

Kitaen’s personal life was as captivating as her career. During high school, she dated Robbin Crosby, the future guitarist of the band Ratt, and they continued their relationship after graduation. In 1989, she married David Coverdale, the lead singer of Whitesnake. Their marriage ended in 1991. During that time, it was also revealed that Kitaen had a year-long affair with O.J. Simpson while he was married to Nicole Brown Simpson, which only became public during Simpson’s 1997 trial.

In 1997, she married baseball player Chuck Finley, but they divorced in 2002. They had two daughters, Wynter and Raine. During their marriage, Kitaen faced legal troubles, including a charge of domestic violence. She entered a spousal battery counseling program and was instructed to avoid contact with Finley.

Kitaen battled substance abuse for much of her adult life. She faced a cocaine possession charge in 2006 and entered a six-month drug rehabilitation program. She was arrested for driving under the influence in 2009 and again in 2019, leading to legal proceedings. Tragically, Tawny Kitaen died at her home in Newport Beach in May 2021 at the age of 59. An autopsy revealed the cause of death as dilated cardiomyopathy, a common form of heart disease.

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Legacy and Final Years

Kitaen’s later years included appearances on reality television. She joined the cast of the sixth season of VH1’s “The Surreal Life” in 2006 and later participated in the second season of “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew” in 2008. These shows offered viewers a glimpse into her struggles with addiction and her efforts toward recovery.

Tawny Kitaen’s legacy is multifaceted. She will be remembered not only for her roles in popular music videos and films but also for her impact on popular culture. Her life, filled with both triumphs and struggles, provides a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences even today. She remains a symbol of 1980s glamour and a reminder of the complexities of fame.

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