Melanie Janine Brown, widely recognized as Mel B or “Scary Spice,” is a British singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality. Born on May 29, 1975, in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England, she has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry over the past three decades.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Mel B was born to an English mother, Andrea, and a Nevisian father, Martin. She grew up in the Burley area of Leeds and attended Intake High School, where she studied performing arts. Her passion for music and performance led her to audition for a girl group in 1994, which eventually became the Spice Girls.
As a member of the Spice Girls, Mel B was dubbed “Scary Spice” due to her bold personality and distinctive style. The group achieved global success with hits like “Wannabe,” “Say You’ll Be There,” and “2 Become 1,” becoming one of the best-selling female groups of all time. Their debut album, “Spice,” topped charts in over 17 countries and was certified multi-platinum in 27 countries.
Solo Career and Television Ventures
Following the Spice Girls’ initial disbandment, Mel B pursued a solo music career. Her debut album, “Hot” (2000), featured the successful singles “Tell Me” and “Feels So Good.” She continued her musical endeavors with the release of “L.A. State of Mind” in 2005 and the single “For Once in My Life” in 2013, which peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs chart.
Mel B also established herself as a prominent television personality. She participated in the fifth season of “Dancing with the Stars” in 2007, finishing in second place. She served as a judge on various talent shows, including “The X Factor” (UK and Australia), “America’s Got Talent,” “The Voice Kids Australia,” and “The Masked Singer Australia.” In 2025, she returned as a judge for the 20th season of “America’s Got Talent.”
Personal Life and Advocacy
Mel B has three daughters: Phoenix, Angel, and Madison. She was previously married to Jimmy Gulzar and later to Stephen Belafonte. Her marriage to Belafonte ended in divorce in 2017, during which she accused him of emotional and physical abuse. This experience led her to become an advocate for domestic violence survivors. In recognition of her charitable work, she was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2022 New Year Honours.
In 2022, Mel B announced her engagement to Rory McPhee, a professional hairdresser. The couple is planning to marry at London’s exclusive St Paul’s Cathedral, a privilege granted due to her MBE honor.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Mel B’s estimated net worth is approximately $6 million. Her earnings stem from her music career, television appearances, book sales, and various endorsements.
Recent Endeavors
Mel B continues to engage with her fans through various projects. She has hinted at a potential Spice Girls reunion tour in 2026 to mark the 30th anniversary of their debut single “Wannabe.” Additionally, she has been involved in television projects across different continents and remains active in her advocacy work.
Mel B’s journey from a young girl in Leeds to an international pop icon and advocate showcases her resilience, talent, and dedication to making a positive impact both in the entertainment industry and beyond.
(FAQs) about Mel B:
1. Who is Mel B?
Mel B, also known as Melanie Brown or Scary Spice, is a British singer, actress, television personality, and author. She rose to fame as a member of the Spice Girls, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time.
2. What is Mel B’s full name?
Her full name is Melanie Janine Brown.
3. How old is Mel B?
Mel B was born on May 29, 1975, making her 50 years old as of 2025.
4. Why is she called “Scary Spice”?
She was nicknamed Scary Spice because of her bold, energetic personality and fierce style when she was part of the Spice Girls.
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5. What is Mel B’s net worth?
As of 2023, Mel B’s estimated net worth is approximately $6 million.
6. Is Mel B married?
Mel B is currently engaged to hairdresser Rory McPhee. She was previously married to Jimmy Gulzar and Stephen Belafonte.
7. How many children does Mel B have?
Mel B has three daughters:
- Phoenix Chi Gulzar (with Jimmy Gulzar)
- Angel Iris Murphy Brown (with Eddie Murphy)
- Madison Brown Belafonte (with Stephen Belafonte)
8. What TV shows has Mel B been on?
Mel B has appeared as a judge or contestant on:
- America’s Got Talent
- The X Factor (UK and Australia)
- Dancing with the Stars (U.S.)
- The Masked Singer Australia
- The Voice Kids Australia
9. Has Mel B written a book?
Yes, Mel B released a memoir titled “Brutally Honest” in 2018, which details her life, career, and personal struggles, including her experiences with abuse.
10. What awards or honors has Mel B received?
Mel B was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2022 for her services to charitable causes and support for domestic violence victims.