Amber Portwood became a household name through reality television, but her story goes far beyond MTV fame. Born on May 14, 1990, in Anderson, Indiana, Amber is now 35 years old and still making headlines. While her journey has been marked by fame, emotional highs, and deeply personal struggles, her current net worth sits at only $10,000, a striking figure for someone who once starred on one of the most-watched reality shows on TV.
Early Life in Indiana: A Tough Start
Amber’s life didn’t begin in the limelight. Raised in a working-class family in Indiana, she faced challenges from an early age. Her father, Shawn Portwood Sr., was a military man, and her mother, Tonya, worked in the medical field. The family lived a modest life, and Amber’s teenage years were marked by rebellion and emotional turbulence.
She dropped out of high school after becoming pregnant at a young age. Her decision set the tone for the path she’d walk—one filled with struggle, emotional breakdowns, and national attention. But it also opened the door to an unexpected opportunity: reality TV.
Fame Through “16 & Pregnant” and “Teen Mom”
Amber’s big break came in 2009 when she appeared on MTV’s “16 & Pregnant.” The show followed her journey into motherhood with her then-boyfriend, Gary Shirley, and their daughter Leah, born in 2008. Her raw, often chaotic portrayal struck a chord with viewers and led her to be cast in “Teen Mom,” a spin-off that followed her life after childbirth.
Amber quickly became one of the most talked-about cast members. Her scenes were filled with real emotional tension, arguments, and heartbreak. But the fame came with a heavy price. As cameras rolled, Amber’s life spiraled—exposing a level of volatility and violence that shocked audiences.
Legal Troubles and Jail Time
Amber’s relationship with Gary Shirley turned toxic. Their on-camera fights escalated beyond verbal arguments. In 2010, she was arrested for domestic violence, with footage from the show being used as part of the case. This made her one of the first reality TV stars to be charged using video evidence from a program.
Things got worse. Authorities later found marijuana and crack cocaine in her possession. Struggling with addiction and mental health issues, she attempted suicide in 2011, an event that marked one of the darkest chapters in her life.
Later that year, Amber violated her probation and was given a choice: complete a rehab program or serve a five-year prison sentence. She initially chose rehab but failed to follow through and was ultimately sentenced to prison. She served 17 months at the Rockville Correctional Facility in Indiana before being released in 2013 for good behavior.
Financial Situation: A Reality Star With Just $10,000
Despite her years on national television, Amber Portwood’s net worth is estimated at just $10,000 as of 2025. For someone who once commanded thousands of dollars per episode, this figure is jarring. Legal fees, court-ordered rehabilitation, and a lifestyle strained by addiction all contributed to her financial downturn.
Additionally, unstable income from reality TV—often dependent on season renewals and public image—meant her earnings were inconsistent. She also had to pay for legal representation, drug treatment, and child support, further draining her finances.
Amber’s case is a strong example of how reality fame does not guarantee financial security, especially when it comes with personal turmoil and legal battles.
Attempts at Recovery and Redemption
Since her release from prison, Amber has attempted to reshape her narrative. She rejoined “Teen Mom OG,” using the platform to speak about her struggles with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. These admissions helped reframe the public’s perception of her, showing vulnerability and growth.
She has also published a book titled “Never Too Late,” offering a candid look at her past mistakes and her journey toward healing. The memoir reflects her desire to move past her troubled past and advocate for mental health awareness.
Amber has since had another child, a son named James, with ex-boyfriend Andrew Glennon. Their relationship has also been controversial, with allegations of domestic abuse and another custody battle that made headlines.
Family Ties and Support Systems
Amber’s relationship with her daughter Leah has been rocky, largely due to her absence during incarceration and ongoing legal issues. Leah currently lives with her father Gary and his wife, Kristina. The co-parenting dynamic has often played out in public, sometimes uncomfortably so.
Despite everything, Amber has expressed regret and made public efforts to rebuild bridges with her children. She’s talked about her intention to be a better mother, take accountability, and break the cycle of dysfunction that defined her past.
Where Is Amber Portwood Now?
Today, Amber is still part of the MTV universe, appearing in specials and reunion episodes. But her presence is more subdued. She’s no longer the fiery center of conflict she once was but instead presents herself as someone working to change.
Amber has also shown interest in off-camera projects, including mental health advocacy and addiction recovery talks. She continues to speak openly about her diagnoses, hoping her honesty can help others in similar situations.
Her finances remain limited, and with a modest net worth of $10,000, it’s clear that Amber’s wealth never matched her fame. But money isn’t the only measure of recovery. For Amber Portwood, the story is still being written—one day, one decision at a time.
