Jordan Knight, the legendary lead vocalist of New Kids on the Block (NKOTB), remains a pop culture icon decades after his initial rise to fame. While fans know his music and career achievements, many are curious about his personal life, particularly his relationship with Evelyn Melendez. Behind the glitz and glamor, Jordan’s journey is deeply intertwined with Evelyn, Jordan Knight Wife, partner, and biggest supporter. This blog dives into their love story, family, and how Evelyn helps balance fame and normalcy.
You’ll also discover detailed insights into Jordan’s career, net worth, and personal attributes like his height, weight, and more.
Quick Bio
Jordan Knight is an accomplished artist with a life steeped in both fame and family. Born May 17, 1970, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Jordan grew up in a large family with six siblings, including Jonathan Knight, his fellow NKOTB bandmate. Standing tall at 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) and weighing approximately 165 lbs (75 kg), Jordan maintains an active lifestyle.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Jordan Nathaniel Marcel Knight |
Birthdate | May 17, 1970 |
Birthplace | Worcester, Massachusetts, USA |
Wife | Evelyn Melendez (married since 2004) |
Children | Dante Jordan Knight (b. August 25, 1999), Eric Jacob Knight (b. February 21, 2007) |
Net Worth | Approx. $18 million (2024) |
Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
Weight | Approx. 165 lbs (75 kg) |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Eye Color | Brown |
Ethnicity | Mixed (English, Canadian, French-Canadian descent) |
Notable Career | Member of New Kids on the Block, Solo Artist |
Top Hits with NKOTB | “Step by Step,” “Hangin’ Tough,” “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” |
Solo Hit | “Give It to You” (1999) |
Business Venture | Co-owner of Novara (Italian restaurant) |
Other Ventures | Associated with Retro Fitness expansion |
Reunion | New Kids on the Block reunited in 2007 and remain active |
Latest Album | Still Kids (2024) |
Jordan’s ethnicity reflects a blend of English, Canadian, and French-Canadian descent, which adds to his distinctive features. Known for his soulful voice and youthful energy, Jordan’s presence has made a lasting mark on the music industry.
Who Is Jordan Knight?
Jordan Knight became a global sensation in the late 1980s and early 1990s as the lead singer of New Kids on the Block. His vocal range, especially his signature falsetto, became the hallmark of NKOTB’s chart-topping hits like “Step by Step” and “Hangin’ Tough.”
The group sold over 70 million albums worldwide, earning critical and commercial success. In addition to his NKOTB fame, Jordan carved out a solo career. His debut single, “Give It to You” (1999), peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Jordan also made waves on television, appearing on shows like The Surreal Life and serving as a judge on American Juniors.
Who Is Jordan Knight wife Evelyn Melendez?
Evelyn Melendez is Jordan Knight’s wife and the anchor of his personal life. She is known for her privacy, keeping her life out of the limelight despite her husband’s celebrity status. Evelyn prefers focusing on her family and personal growth rather than seeking the public eye.
Her role in Jordan’s life is vital, offering support and stability amid his demanding career. While she has no public social media presence, Evelyn’s quiet strength has helped Jordan balance fame with family. Her commitment to maintaining a low profile has allowed their relationship to flourish, away from the prying eyes of the media.
The Love Story of Jordan Knight and Evelyn Melendez
Meeting and Early Relationship
Jordan and Evelyn first met in the late 1990s, during a pivotal time in his career. After NKOTB’s initial breakup in 1994, Jordan was rebuilding his career as a solo artist. Evelyn brought warmth and stability into his life, becoming a pillar of support. Their connection was immediate, and their relationship blossomed quickly.
Jordan often speaks of Evelyn’s grounding presence, which helped him navigate the pressures of fame. While the details of their early courtship remain private, their bond grew stronger as they faced challenges together, including Jordan’s intense schedule and media scrutiny.
Marriage and Family Life
The couple tied the knot on September 12, 2004, in a private ceremony surrounded by loved ones. Their wedding was a reflection of their relationship intimate, heartfelt, and far from the extravagance of celebrity norms.
Over the years, their marriage has stood the test of time, with Evelyn supporting Jordan through career highs and lows. Together, they’ve built a home focused on love, trust, and family values. Evelyn’s commitment to their relationship shines through her ability to maintain a strong family unit while respecting Jordan’s public obligations.
Family Life
Children
Jordan and Evelyn are the proud parents of two sons:
- Dante Jordan Knight (born August 25, 1999)
- Eric Jacob Knight (born February 21, 2007)
Dante, their firstborn, has a natural inclination toward the arts, possibly influenced by his father’s musical legacy. Eric, their younger son, is described as curious and adventurous, enjoying activities like sports and travel. Both children are raised with strong family values, thanks to Evelyn’s nurturing efforts.
Balancing Fame and Family
Despite Jordan’s hectic touring schedule, Evelyn ensures their home remains a sanctuary. The couple prioritizes family time, often engaging in activities like vacations or quiet evenings at home. Jordan credits Evelyn for creating a loving environment that allows him to recharge and focus on his family.
Evelyn Melendez’s Contribution to Jordan’s Career
Evelyn plays a pivotal role behind the scenes of Jordan’s success. While fans only see the glamour of his performances, Evelyn handles the complexities of their private life. She provides emotional support and stability, especially during challenging periods like grueling tour schedules or media pressure.
Jordan has often expressed gratitude for Evelyn’s unwavering belief in his talents. Her presence has been instrumental in helping him maintain focus and motivation, ensuring his longevity in the competitive music industry.
Life on Tour and Public Appearances
Being the wife of an international pop star like Jordan Knight means stepping into a life that’s anything but ordinary. For Evelyn Melendez, this dynamic lifestyle brought unique experiences and challenges, ranging from constant travel to navigating the spotlight all while keeping their family grounded. Over the years, Evelyn has played an integral role in supporting Jordan through the highs and lows of his career while maintaining her own sense of balance.
Life on Tour
The touring lifestyle is synonymous with the music industry, and Jordan Knight’s career with New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) ensured he spent considerable time on the road. Whether it was a worldwide tour or a string of local performances, the schedule demanded long absences from home.
For Evelyn, this meant assuming the role of the anchor at home, ensuring that their children, Dante Jordan Knight and Eric Jacob Knight, grew up with stability despite their father’s demanding career. Evelyn often joined Jordan for select tour stops, especially during milestone events or major performances.
These experiences allowed her to witness the passion and dedication Jordan pours into his craft, while also offering moral support during grueling schedules. Life on tour, however, was not without its challenges. Managing the demands of family life alongside the pressures of being in the public eye required constant communication and mutual understanding. Evelyn’s ability to adapt to this unconventional lifestyle has been a cornerstone of their relationship.
Public Appearances
While Evelyn prefers to maintain a low profile, she has occasionally accompanied Jordan to high-profile events, including red-carpet appearances, charity galas, and NKOTB anniversaries.
These moments showcase their strong partnership, with Evelyn’s poise and elegance complementing Jordan’s charismatic persona. Their joint appearances often draw admiration from fans, who appreciate the couple’s enduring bond.
Despite their celebrity status, Evelyn and Jordan have been intentional about shielding their private lives from excessive media attention. By choosing carefully when and where to appear publicly, they’ve struck a delicate balance between sharing moments with fans and preserving their family’s privacy.
Evelyn Melendez’s Personal Interests and Hobbies
Beyond her role as Jordan Knight’s wife, Evelyn Melendez leads a life enriched by her personal interests and hobbies. These activities not only reflect her personality but also provide her with a sense of fulfillment and joy.
Hobbies
Evelyn’s hobbies reveal her grounded and nurturing nature. She’s known for her love of cooking, often preparing meals that bring the family together. In interviews, Jordan has shared anecdotes about Evelyn’s culinary skills, highlighting how she uses food to create cherished memories. Whether it’s trying out new recipes or perfecting family favorites, Evelyn’s kitchen is a place of warmth and creativity.
Reading is another passion that keeps Evelyn engaged and informed. She enjoys exploring diverse genres, from contemporary fiction to self-help books, using reading as a way to unwind and gain fresh perspectives. This habit also allows her to stay intellectually curious and connected to the world beyond celebrity life.
Evelyn also loves traveling, often accompanying her family on vacations or tagging along during Jordan’s tours. These experiences have allowed her to explore different cultures, cuisines, and traditions, broadening her horizons while strengthening family bonds.
Philanthropy
While Evelyn doesn’t often speak publicly about her charitable work, her contributions to various causes reflect her compassionate spirit. She’s particularly passionate about initiatives related to children’s education, animal welfare, and healthcare. Her philanthropic efforts align with the values she shares with Jordan, emphasizing giving back to the community.
Evelyn’s quiet dedication to these causes demonstrates her belief in making a difference without seeking recognition. By focusing on impactful work, she’s created a legacy of kindness that resonates with those who know her personally.
Challenges and Triumphs
No relationship is without its hurdles, and Jordan Knight and Evelyn Melendez’s marriage has been no exception. From navigating the pressures of fame to handling personal struggles, the couple has faced their challenges head-on, emerging stronger with each test.
Public Scrutiny
Living in the public eye comes with its share of scrutiny. Over the years, tabloids and gossip columns have speculated about the couple’s relationship, often exaggerating or misrepresenting their lives. For Evelyn, maintaining a sense of normalcy amid these distractions has been a top priority. Her preference for privacy has allowed the family to avoid much of the drama that often accompanies celebrity marriages.
Jordan has been vocal about how Evelyn’s grounded approach helps him navigate the demands of fame. “She’s my rock,” he’s shared in interviews, emphasizing how her unwavering support has been instrumental in his personal and professional life.
Overcoming Difficulties
Like any couple, Jordan and Evelyn have faced their share of difficulties, including career transitions, family pressures, and personal struggles. One of their most significant challenges was balancing Jordan’s demanding schedule with the need to prioritize family time.
By fostering open communication and mutual understanding, they’ve managed to maintain a strong partnership despite the obstacles.
Their ability to overcome these challenges serves as a testament to their resilience. Together, they’ve built a life founded on trust, love, and shared values qualities that have helped them weather the ups and downs of their journey.
Maintaining Privacy in a Public Life
In an era where social media dominates the narrative, Evelyn Melendez stands out for her commitment to privacy. Unlike many celebrity spouses, she’s chosen to stay out of the limelight, focusing instead on her family and personal life.
Close Friendships
Evelyn’s inner circle consists of a tight-knit group of trusted friends. These relationships provide her with a sense of security and normalcy, allowing her to share her joys and challenges without fear of judgment.
By prioritizing quality over quantity in her social connections, Evelyn has cultivated a network of support that enriches her life.
Family Traditions
Family traditions are central to Evelyn’s approach to life. From holiday celebrations to weekly family dinners, these rituals create a sense of continuity and togetherness.
For their children, Dante and Eric, these traditions offer stability and fond memories, even amidst the unpredictability of their father’s career.
By maintaining a balance between public appearances and private moments, Evelyn ensures that her family’s personal life remains a sanctuary a place of peace and connection away from the spotlight.
Conclusion
The relationship between Jordan Knight and Evelyn Melendez is a testament to the power of love, partnership, and perseverance. Their story isn’t just about fame or public appearances it’s about the balance they’ve found between the demands of a high-profile career and the quiet strength of a devoted family life.
Evelyn’s role as a supportive wife and nurturing mother is pivotal in Jordan’s success, both professionally and personally. Whether managing the home front during grueling tours or standing proudly by Jordan’s side at public events, Evelyn has been a steady presence.
Her ability to maintain privacy in a world that thrives on exposure speaks volumes about her character and priorities. Their story is far from over, and as they embark on future chapters, one thing is clear: Jordan Knight and Evelyn Melendez’s enduring bond will always be the heart of their incredible journey.
FAQs
Who is Jordan Knight’s wife?
Jordan Knight’s wife is Evelyn Melendez, whom he married in 2004. They have been together for nearly two decades.
What is Jordan Knight’s net worth?
Jordan Knight’s estimated net worth is around $18 million, earned through his music, acting, and business ventures.
Are Jordan Knight and Evelyn Melendez still married?
Yes, Jordan Knight and Evelyn Melendez have been married since 2004 and share two sons together.
Who are Jordan Knight’s kids?
Jordan Knight has two sons: Dante Jordan, born in 1999, and Eric Jacob, born in 2007.
Does Jordan Knight still perform?
Yes, Jordan Knight continues to perform and has upcoming live tour dates for 2024-2025.
Does Jordan Knight still own a gym?
Jordan Knight remains involved in the Retro Fitness brand, which plans to expand across major U.S. markets.
Is Jordan Knight still with NKOTB?
Yes, Jordan Knight is still an active member of New Kids on the Block, which reunited in 2007 and released a new album in 2024.
Who is the richest New Kid on the Block?
Donnie Wahlberg and Joey McIntyre are tied as the richest NKOTB members, each with a net worth of $25 million.
What company does Jordan Knight own?
Jordan Knight co-owns Novara, a restaurant specializing in Northern Italian cuisine, located in Milton, Massachusetts.