Vanessa Jean Simmons, an American television personality and actress, was born on August 5, 1983, in Laie, Hawaii.
She rose to fame through her family's MTV reality show, Run's House, and has appeared in various films such as Boogie Town, Dysfunctional Friends, and Speed Dating.
Simmons is also recognized as a designer for the shoe brand Pastry, which she co-owns with her sister Angela Simmons.
She shares a daughter with her long-term boyfriend, Michael Wayans.
Simmons is not only an actress and television personality but also an entrepreneur with a focus on empowering women and girls through her business endeavors.
She has been highlighted in CNN Underscored, where she discusses her beauty and wellness essentials, as well as her dedication to enhancing health from within.
Siblings
Vanessa has five siblings, namely Angela Simmons, Joseph “Jojo” Simmons Jr, Daniel “Diggy” Simmons III, Russell “Russy” Simmons II and Miley Justine Simmons.
Angela and Joseph are engaged in the fashion and entertainment sectors, while Daniel pursues careers as both a rapper and actor.
As for Russell and Miley, their professions are unspecified in publicly available information.
Angela Simmons
Angela has gained fame as a reality TV star, notably recognized for her role on the show Growing Up Hip Hop.
Additionally, she has established herself as a fashion designer and entrepreneur, launching her own line of shoes and clothing.
Angela has shared openly about her personal journey on the show, including the challenges of being a single mother following the passing of her ex-fiance, Sutton Tennyson, in 2018.
Angela has bravely addressed the challenge of explaining her ex-fiance Sutton Tennyson's passing to their young son, Sutton Jr. Simmons has also courageously shared her own experience with domestic violence, utilizing her platform to advocate against it.
She has openly discussed her journey of breaking free from an abusive relationship, emphasizing the significance of seeking assistance and finding a supportive network.
Career
Vanessa rose to prominence via her family's MTV reality show, Run's House, and has subsequently showcased her acting talents in diverse films and TV series like Boogie Town, Dysfunctional Friends, and Games People Play.
Beyond her entertainment career, she's a thriving entrepreneur, having co-founded the shoe brand Pastry alongside her sister Angela. Vanessa has also engaged in collaborations with esteemed fashion brands and actively supports initiatives aimed at enhancing access to quality education.
Vanessa is deeply committed to mental health advocacy, frequently addressing the topic and urging others to prioritize their well-being.
She maintains a YouTube channel where she candidly shares her own experiences, offers advice, and delivers inspiring messages.
Currently, Vanessa can be seen in the series Monogamy and is set to appear in My Ex's Christmas alongside Shawna.
Personal life
Vanessa welcomed a baby girl with her boyfriend, Mike Wayans, son of comedic actor Damon Wayans, in 2014.
Since they began dating in 2005, the couple has opted to maintain privacy regarding their relationship, prioritizing their careers and raising their daughter away from media scrutiny.
While Simmons is known as a businesswoman and devoted mother who has openly discussed her struggles with weight loss, details about her romantic partnership are kept off-camera.
Wayans' Instagram account is set to private, possibly where the couple shares family photos. Despite this privacy, they remain together and their bond continues to thrive.
