SHANNA MOAKLER

Shanna Lynn Moakler is an American model, actress, reality television personality, and former beauty pageant titleholder. Born on March 28, 1975, in Providence, Rhode Island, she has built a multifaceted career in the entertainment industry, gaining recognition for her work in modeling, acting, and television hosting.

Early Life and Background

Shanna Moakler was born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. She is of German, Irish, Portuguese, and Polish descent. Growing up, she spent weekends on her grandfather's farm, where she enjoyed outdoor activities and developed a tomboyish demeanor. Moakler was a competitive roller skater for 12 years, participating in competitions akin to ice skating events. She attended Barrington High School, where she was voted "best dressed" and dated the football team's captain. After high school, she moved to Miami to pursue modeling, later relocating to New York City and Los Angeles to further her career. ​

Pageantry and Modeling Career

Moakler began her pageantry career at 17, representing Rhode Island in the Miss Teen USA 1992 pageant, where she placed seventh overall. She won the Miss Teen All American title in 1993. In 1995, she was crowned Miss New York USA and became the first runner-up at Miss USA. When Chelsi Smith won Miss Universe 1995, Moakler succeeded her as Miss USA. She began modeling at 15, appearing in magazines like Cosmopolitan and Brentwood. In December 2001, she was named Playboy's Playmate of the Month. 

Acting and Television Career

Transitioning into acting, Moakler appeared in films such as "Poison Ivy: The New Seduction" (1997), "The Wedding Singer" (1998), and "Big Momma's House 2" (2006). She was a regular on the USA Network series "Pacific Blue" from 1998 to 2000. In 2005, she starred in the MTV reality series "Meet the Barkers" alongside her then-husband, Travis Barker. Moakler also hosted E!'s "Bridalplasty" in 2010 and joined the cast of VH1's "Hollywood Exes" in 2014. ​

Pageant Directing and Advocacy

Moakler has served as the executive producer of the Miss Nevada USA pageant since 2012 and acquired the Miss Utah USA franchise in 2018. She is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and animal rights, participating in PETA campaigns promoting vegetarianism and opposing fur use in fashion. ​

Personal Life

Moakler has three children: Atiana De La Hoya with ex-fiancé Oscar De La Hoya, and Landon and Alabama Barker with ex-husband Travis Barker. Her personal life has been subject to media attention, particularly her relationships and family dynamics. In recent years, she has focused on personal growth, health, and her career, emphasizing her independence and resilience. ​

Shanna Moakler's diverse career and personal experiences reflect her adaptability and determination in the entertainment industry. From pageantry to television, she continues to engage audiences with her multifaceted talents and advocacy work.