Reggie Wells Net Worth: Renowned celebrity makeup artist Reggie Wells has sadly passed away at the age of 76. Reggie Wells served as Oprah Winfrey’s makeup artist for three decades.
Reggie Wells worn on December 2, 1947, in Baltimore, Maryland, to his parents, John Wells and Ada Wells.
He completed his high school education at City College High School in 1965. Later, he pursued his academic journey at the Maryland Institute College of Art, earning his B.F.A. degree in 1971 and his M.A. degree in art education in 1975.
In 1968, Reggie Wells initiated his career in education, teaching art in the Baltimore Public School system.
His professional journey took a turn in 1976 when he relocated to New York City, initially working at makeup counters in department stores. Wells transitioned into the entertainment industry, making a mark as a makeup artist for a Jordache jeans advertising campaign.
Throughout his illustrious career, Wells collaborated with prominent publications such as Essence magazine, O Magazine, Glamour Magazine, Time, Life, Harper’s Bazaar, and Mademoiselle.
Reggie’s expertise extended to working with numerous celebrities, including Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Halle Berry, Natalie Cole, Aretha Franklin, Leontyne Price, Joan Rivers, and former first lady Michelle Obama.
Notably, Wells was known for formulating his own makeup products to cater to the unique needs of darker skin tones among his clients.
You Can Read About Trace Lysette Net Worth: How Rich Is The Trans Actress? Takes A Shot At Dave Chappelle
Reggie Wells Net Worth: Oprah Makeup Artist Passed Away At 76
Reggie Wells Net Worth: Upon his arrival in New York City, Reggie Wells honed his skills by working at makeup counters, eventually capturing the notice of a fashion editor.
This breakthrough paved the way for his involvement with renowned publications such as Glamour, Life, and Harper’s Bazaar magazines.
Notably, his tenure at Essence magazine marked a significant chapter in his career, where he contributed to over 100 covers featuring models and celebrities.
It was Wells' impactful work at Essence that brought him to the attention of prominent figures like Oprah Winfrey and other A-list Black female entertainers. His association with Oprah began in the mid-1990s, and his talent garnered him the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Makeup in 1995. This recognition was followed by four additional Emmy nominations in the subsequent years, solidifying his status as a distinguished makeup artist in the industry.
Their professional association extended globally as Wells accompanied Winfrey to events in South Africa, Australia, and the Middle East.
Additionally, he hosted a segment on The Oprah Winfrey Show titled “Make-Up 101.” Wells actively contributed to the show’s production by collaborating with lighting technicians to develop specialized techniques for enhancing darker skin tones on camera.
In the year 2000, Wells authored the book “Face Painting: African American Beauty Techniques from an Emmy Award-Winning Makeup Artist.”
Later on, in 2011, he took on the role of international creative director for Hissyfit, an Australian cosmetics company.
Reggie Wells: A Philanthropist
Reggie Wells Net Worth: Reggie Wells earned acclaim for his exceptional work on The Oprah Winfrey Show, receiving the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Makeup in 1995.
His talent continued to be recognized with subsequent Emmy nominations in the years 2003, 2004, and 2005.
In addition to his contributions to the field of makeup artistry, Wells dedicated his time and expertise as a board member and trustee for the Maryland Institute College of Art, serving in this capacity from 2010 to 2016.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Wells dedicated his time to volunteer work in senior citizen communities in Baltimore.
His philanthropic efforts included providing makeovers to residents and organizing photo shoots.
Additionally, he engaged in educational activities by traveling to makeup shows across the country, where he conducted master classes and day of beauty seminars.
On Monday, January 8, Fox Baltimore reporter Keith Daniels shared the somber news in a heartfelt Twitter post that Reggie Wells, the Emmy-winning Makeup Artist, had passed away.
The family of the renowned makeup artist later confirmed that Wells had succumbed to a long-term illness at his home in Baltimore on that morning.
Reggie Wells was an artist who used his palette of talent to create beauty no matter the canvas.
– Oprah Winfrey
You May Also Be Interested In Brian Barczyk Net Worth 2024: Cancer, Death Rumors, Wife & Son
