Melanie Brown, famously known as Mel B or “Scary Spice,” has lived a life filled with music, fame, struggle, and resilience. Best recognized as a member of the Spice Girls, one of the best-selling girl groups in music history, Mel B has remained a prominent name in the entertainment world for over two decades. From topping global charts to dealing with personal financial setbacks, her journey is both inspiring and cautionary. As of 2025, Mel B’s estimated net worth is $6 million, reflecting both her career highs and her personal setbacks.
How Old Is Mel B and Where Did It All Start?
Born on May 29, 1975, in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England, Mel B is now 50 years old. Her full name is Melanie Janine Brown. She grew up in Leeds and attended Intake High School, where she studied performing arts. Her love for dance came first, and she initially worked as a professional dancer before turning to music.
Mel joined a group called Touch early in her career, which later evolved into the Spice Girls. The band included Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton, Geri Halliwell, and Melanie Chisholm. Each of them adopted a nickname. Melanie became “Scary Spice” because of her loud, bold, and unapologetic personality—something fans quickly adored.
The Rise of the Spice Girls and Global Fame
In 1996, the Spice Girls released their first single, “Wannabe”, which turned them into instant global stars. The song hit No. 1 in more than 30 countries. Their debut album, Spice, sold over 28 million copies worldwide, becoming the best-selling album by a female group in history.
Mel B’s fierce stage presence, unique fashion sense, and signature curly hair made her a standout in the group. With chart-topping albums like Spiceworld (1997) and Forever (2000), the group cemented their place in pop culture. Despite their eventual hiatus, their popularity has never truly faded.
Mel B’s Solo Music and TV Career
After the Spice Girls stepped away from the spotlight, Mel B started her solo music career. Her debut single “I Want You Back” with Missy Elliott reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart. In 2000, she released her first album, Hot, followed by L.A. State of Mind in 2005. Though her solo music didn’t match the group’s commercial success, it helped her maintain visibility in the music world.
Her transition into television proved even more successful. Mel became a regular face on major shows such as America’s Got Talent, where she earned $240,000 a month at her peak. She also judged The X Factor UK and appeared on Dancing with the Stars Australia and other popular formats, becoming a familiar presence in both UK and US households.
Financial Ups and Downs: Mel B’s Divorce and Debt Struggles
While her career remained active, Mel B faced serious financial challenges. Her divorce from Stephen Belafonte in 2017 revealed shocking details about her money troubles. Court documents showed that Mel had burned through nearly all of her Spice Girls-era earnings—at one point estimated at over $30 million.
She was ordered to pay Belafonte $40,000 per month in spousal support. That same year, legal filings revealed she had less than $1,300 in her checking account, and owed $800,000 in tax debt. She also had $100,000 in credit card debt and had spent nearly $1.7 million on legal and accounting fees. Her 2017 net income was reported as -$3.2 million.
In 2018, she paid Stephen Belafonte $422,000 in spousal support. She also received $250,000 that year from actor Eddie Murphy, who is the father of her daughter, Angel. Despite the setbacks, Mel still owns 20% of the Spice Girls’ business entity, giving her a financial stake in future music, merchandise, or reunion earnings.
Mel B’s Family Life
Mel B is a mother of three daughters. Her eldest, Phoenix Chi, was born in 1999 from her marriage to dancer Jimmy Gulzar. Her second daughter, Angel Iris Murphy Brown, was born in 2007, fathered by Eddie Murphy. Her youngest, Madison Brown Belafonte, was born in 2011 during her marriage to Stephen Belafonte.
Mel B has been very open about her personal struggles, including domestic abuse, which she detailed in her 2018 autobiography, “Brutally Honest.” The book became a bestseller and earned praise for its raw storytelling and emotional truth.
Where Does Mel B Live Now?
Mel B had to sell her $6.5 million Hollywood home following her divorce, which had a $3 million mortgage on it. Since then, she’s lived a more modest lifestyle, splitting her time between the UK and Los Angeles, depending on work and family needs. She keeps her current living situation private, but she has spoken openly about downsizing and regaining control over her finances.
Acting, Modeling, and Advocacy
Mel B has also appeared in a few films and stage performances. Her acting roles include appearances in “LD 50 Lethal Dose,” “Telling Lies,” and the Broadway musical “Chicago”, where she played Roxie Hart. She also dabbled in modeling and appeared in campaigns that celebrated body positivity and diversity.
In recent years, she’s become an advocate for mental health and domestic violence survivors. Using her platform, she continues to speak at events and interviews, raising awareness and encouraging others to speak out.
Final Look at Mel B’s Journey
At 50, Mel B’s life has been a whirlwind of highs and lows. From pop superstardom to financial ruin, and back to rebuilding her career, she’s shown resilience and strength every step of the way. With a net worth of $6 million in 2025, her legacy goes beyond money. She’s a fighter, a mother, a performer, and a voice for those going through tough times.
