When it comes to celebrity couples, many partners of famous musicians or actors live under the constant glare of the spotlight. Yet, Evelyn Melendez, the wife of Jordan Knight from New Kids on the Block, has built a life that is both fascinating and private. While most fans recognize her name through her connection to the pop icon, Evelyn’s own achievements and quiet strength make her story worth telling.
Who Is Evelyn Melendez?
Evelyn Melendez was born on May 17, 1970, in the United States. Now 55 years old, she stands tall at 5 feet 9 inches, with striking dark brown eyes and jet-black hair. Known for her elegance and poise, Evelyn first gained recognition in the 1990s and early 2000s through a thriving modeling career.
Unlike many celebrity spouses who actively embrace the limelight, Evelyn has always chosen a different path. She rarely gives interviews or attends public events, preferring to focus on her family and personal life. This quiet approach has only added to her intrigue among fans of Jordan Knight and New Kids on the Block.
Modeling Career and Achievements
Before becoming widely known as Jordan Knight’s partner, Evelyn was a respected name in the fashion industry. She began modeling in the 1990s, a period when the industry was booming with iconic designers and high-profile campaigns. Evelyn’s natural beauty, combined with her professionalism, quickly set her apart.
She walked runways for prestigious fashion houses such as Versace, Dior, and Chanel. Her face also graced the covers of world-renowned magazines, including Vogue and Elle. In addition, she starred in ad campaigns for leading brands like Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. Maintaining a modeling career that spanned over 20 years is no small feat, especially in an industry known for its constant turnover.
Evelyn’s success came not only from her looks but also from her disciplined approach to work. Those who collaborated with her remember her as reliable, graceful, and easy to work with—qualities that made her a favorite among top photographers and designers.
A Love Story with Jordan Knight
Evelyn met Jordan Knight in the late 1990s, shortly after New Kids on the Block went on hiatus and Jordan embarked on his solo career. Though the details of their first meeting remain private, it is believed they were introduced through mutual friends.
During that time, Jordan was dealing with personal struggles, including battles with alcohol. Evelyn’s steady presence and unwavering support played an important role in helping him navigate these challenges. Unlike many celebrity couples, they built their relationship away from the cameras, focusing on trust and understanding rather than publicity.
Marriage and Family Life
After several years of dating, Evelyn and Jordan Knight tied the knot on September 12, 2004. Their wedding was a private affair attended by close family and friends. One of the few details revealed about the ceremony is Jordan singing “I’ll Be Loving You (Forever)” to Evelyn, creating a moment that guests described as heartfelt and unforgettable.
The couple shares two children:
- Dante Knight, born in 1999.
- Eric Knight, born in 2007.
Even before their marriage, Evelyn and Jordan were already focused on giving Dante a stable and grounded upbringing. Their parenting style reflects their shared values of privacy, normalcy, and family over fame.
In 2020, the Knight family moved to Milton, Massachusetts, a quiet town that perfectly matches their desire for a peaceful and private life.
Handling Rumors with Grace
Life as the spouse of a famous musician can invite speculation, and Evelyn has had her fair share of public rumors. In 2012, tabloids circulated stories of potential separation and infidelity, but the couple never addressed these rumors publicly. Instead, they chose to focus on their relationship and family life, proving that they value personal integrity over gossip.
Jordan has openly spoken about how important Evelyn is to him, crediting her with helping him stay grounded despite the pressures of fame. Their approach to challenges—keeping matters private and supporting one another—has allowed them to maintain a strong marriage.
Evelyn Melendez’s Net Worth and Independence
Evelyn’s estimated net worth ranges between $100,000 and $1 million, largely accumulated during her successful modeling career and through personal ventures. While her wealth may be modest compared to Jordan Knight’s estimated $18 million net worth, it reflects her independence and hard work.
Evelyn never relied solely on Jordan’s success to define her life or achievements. Instead, she created a stable financial foundation of her own, proving that she is more than just the wife of a pop star.
Legacy in the Fashion Industry
Although Evelyn Melendez is no longer active in the modeling industry, her career left a lasting impression. She is remembered not only for her physical beauty but also for her professionalism and dedication. For aspiring models, her career path serves as an example of how to build a successful and meaningful career without compromising personal values.