Kelly Cutrone has long been a monumental figure in the worlds of fashion, public relations, and reality television. A multifaceted entrepreneur, author, and TV personality, she is the founder and owner of the iconic PR firm People’s Revolution. Kelly’s success stems from her unparalleled work ethic and sharp business acumen, making her an industry leader for decades. Her dynamic personality and unfiltered approach to life have earned her a reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
With an estimated Kelly Cutrone net worth of around $10 million as of 2023, her career spans multiple industries with significant achievements. This article dives into Kelly’s early life, rise to prominence, milestones, income sources, and how she overcame challenges to achieve financial independence and widespread success.
Early Life and Family
Kelly Cutrone was born Kelly Blanding circa 1965 in Camillus, New York, where she spent her early years in a middle-class household. Though much about her family life remains private, it is evident that her upbringing gave her the resilience and independence she became known for. Her family played an essential role in shaping her determined spirit.
From an early age, Kelly possessed a no-nonsense attitude and a mind for exploration. Fueled by a passion for communication and connection, she pursued higher education, attending Syracuse University, where she graduated in 1986. This academic foundation would later serve her well in the competitive field of public relations.
The Foundations of Kelly’s Career
Immediately after graduating, Kelly moved to New York City to immerse herself in the excitement and fast-paced environment of the professional world. She started her career under Susan Blond, a renowned publicist, gaining invaluable insights into PR and media dynamics. Following this, she became the director of communications for Spin Magazine, working for mogul Bob Guccione.
By her mid-twenties, Kelly took a bold step in launching her first PR agency, Cutrone & Weinberg, alongside Jason Weinberg, another Susan Blond alum. They rapidly gained an impressive roster of clients, including Eartha Kitt and Mark Ronson. Her innovative approach to public relations quickly set her apart, laying the groundwork for future success.
Founding People’s Revolution
Having briefly stepped away from PR to explore tarot reading, Kelly returned to the industry in 1996 with the founding of People’s Revolution, a company that would become one of fashion’s most influential PR agencies. Known for shaking up the industry, People’s Revolution earned a reputation for representing avant-garde designers, hosting trailblazing fashion shows, and cultivating bold media campaigns.
By 2002, the firm broke records at New York Fashion Week, producing the most shows in a single day—an unsurpassable feat that underscored Kelly’s indomitable work ethic and creative genius.
Television Fame and Expanded Influence
Beyond public relations, Kelly Cutrone ventured into television, becoming a household name through her appearances on MTV’s The Hills and The City. She was a mentor to rising stars like Whitney Port and Lauren Conrad, helping them not just professionally but also personally as they navigated their lives in the fashion space.
Kelly later launched her reality series, Kell on Earth, which aired on Bravo in 2010. The show offered viewers an unfiltered glimpse into the chaos of running a PR empire and managing motherhood all at once.
Over the years, Kelly also served as a panel judge on America’s Next Top Model (Seasons 18–22) and became a contributor to The Dr. Phil Show. These roles further solidified her status as a cultural icon and cemented her influence far beyond the world of PR.
Financial Achievements and Kelly Cutrone Net Worth
Through her wide-ranging ventures, Kelly Cutrone has amassed an estimated net worth of $10 million. Her wealth comes from diverse income sources, including PR firm profits, TV appearances, book sales, and public speaking engagements.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $10 million |
| Company Ownership | People’s Revolution |
| Television Earnings | Appearances on multiple shows |
| Books Published | 2x New York Times Best Sellers |
| Public Speaking Fees | TED Talks and motivational keynotes |
Books and Literary Success
Kelly authored two groundbreaking memoirs, both of which became New York Times bestsellers. Her first book, “If You Have to Cry, Go Outside”, published in 2010, offered tough-love advice that resonated with readers, particularly women navigating competitive industries. Her second book, “Normal Gets You Nowhere”, followed in 2011, encouraging readers to question conformity and discover their unique paths.
The success of these books brought Kelly both critical acclaim and financial gain, playing a key role in building her net worth.
Personal Struggles and Resilience
While Kelly Cutrone’s career achievements are remarkable, her personal life has not been without its challenges. She endured two divorces, marrying artist Ronnie Cutrone at the age of 21 and later actor Jeff Kober. Both relationships ultimately ended, pushing Kelly to focus on her career and independence.
Despite her professional triumphs, Kelly has not shied away from discussing the difficulties of balancing her role as a single mother to her daughter, Ava, born in 2002, with her demanding career. This openness has helped her connect with audiences worldwide, presenting her as a relatable and resilient figure.
Career Highlights
Among her numerous accomplishments, some highlights include:
- Founder and CEO of People’s Revolution, an industry-defining PR firm representing brands like Longchamp and Jeremy Scott.
- Host and executive producer of Kell on Earth, which gave an inside look at PR life.
- Judging America’s Next Top Model, where her industry expertise stood out.
- Keynote speaker for events such as TEDxOxford, where she shared inspiring insights on redefining success.
Awards and Recognition
Although Kelly Cutrone has not been the recipient of formal industry awards, her contributions to public relations and fashion remain highly regarded. Her work has consistently broken boundaries, earning her a legacy as a disruptive yet inspiring figure in the industry.
Final Thoughts on Kelly Cutrone Net Worth
Kelly Cutrone’s life epitomizes resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. From humble beginnings in Camillus, New York, to building a thriving PR empire and becoming a recognizable face on television, her story is one of determination and breaking barriers.
Kelly Cutrone net worth, valued at $10 million, reflects her multi-faceted career and determination to succeed against all odds. Whether through her books, her TV appearances, or her PR innovations, Kelly continues to inspire countless individuals worldwide.
