Jeffree Star is among the biggest names in the YouTube and beauty world today. Jeffree has built a multimillion-dollar empire through his online fame, with over 15 million subscribers on his YouTube channel and a cosmetics brand valued at $150 million. But how did the former MySpace celebrity become the beauty mogul he is today?
Jeffree’s Early Life and Career Beginnings
Jeffree Star was born Jeffrey Lynn Steininger Jr. in Orange County, California. He had a difficult childhood, with his father tragically committing suicide at a young age. Jeffree has been open about his struggles with depression and self-harm during his school years.
After graduating high school, Jeffree moved to Los Angeles and began doing makeup for celebrities. He also started pursuing a music career, releasing his debut studio album in 2006 when he was the most followed person on MySpace. Although his music did not see mainstream success, his makeup artistry and online fame were just the beginnings of his now-massive success.
The Launch of Jeffree Star Cosmetics
In 2014, Jeffree launched his own cosmetics company, Jeffree Star Cosmetics. The brand was an immediate hit, appealing to Jeffree’s already-established online fanbase. Jeffree’s first product launch sold out within minutes, proving that his social media presence could sell makeup just as well as established brands.
Jeffree’s makeup line stood out for its trendy, edgy aesthetic and emphasis on highly pigmented, vivid colors. His products resonated with young, internet-savvy audiences who wanted makeup to express themselves. Jeffree wasn’t afraid to stir up controversy with product names like “Drug Lord” and “Abused.” This built his reputation as an unapologetic, uncensored internet celebrity.
Jeffree’s Sources of Income and Growing Empire
While Jeffree Star Cosmetics may be Jeffree’s most famous endeavor, the YouTuber has diversified his income through other business ventures. He owns a merchandise company and a shipping and fulfillment center and has invested in cannabis and real estate.
In 2019, it was reported that Jeffree Star Cosmetics was valued at $150 million. Combined with Jeffree’s other assets and income streams, his net worth is between $50-$75 million. However, many fans speculate his value is much higher, considering his makeup company alone is worth over $100 million.
Highs and Lows: Theft, Feuds, and Controversies
Jeffree’s success has come with difficulties. In 2019, $2.5 million of Jeffree’s makeup was stolen in a robbery planned by black market makeup dealers. This led to an FBI investigation into the theft and operation.
Jeffree has also been part of various online dramas and feuds as an uncensored internet star. He had public fallingouts with YouTubers like James Charles and pore strip brand Khloé Kardashian. Jeffree has been criticized for his past inappropriate comments but remains one of YouTube’s most popular and profitable stars.
Jeffree’s Personal Life and Relationships
Jeffree met his current boyfriend, Nathan Schwandt, on Instagram in 2015. Their relationship fascinated fans, as Nathan identified as straight before dating Jeffree. But their connection defied labels; they have been together for over four years.
Nathan has supported Jeffree through the ups and downs of his career, including the loss of Jeffree’s beloved dog, Diamond. Jeffree also reconnected with his birth mother on his channel, having been estranged from her for many years. His fans have gotten an inside look at his struggles through his honest and raw videos.
The Future of Jeffree’s Empire
As Jeffree Star Cosmetics continues expanding into stores across the world, Jeffree is on track to become a billionaire. Jeffree is among the most complex working influencers today, with new makeup products released almost monthly, a questions-and-answer show on YouTube, and even rumors of a reality show.
Jeffree went from internet-famous to one of the most successful beauty entrepreneurs and YouTubers. His unique style and business savvy built him an empire by catering to audiences neglected by the mainstream makeup industry. Jeffree has paved the way for influencer-owned cosmetics brands and shown the power of social media success.
