Sharise Ruddell: The Untold Story Of Vince Neil’s Ex-Wife, Her Career, Tragedy & Life Today

Sharise Ruddell remains one of the most unforgettable figures connected to the glam metal era, not simply because she was the ex-wife of Mötley Crüe frontman Vince Neil, but because her life captures the glamour, tragedy, excess, resilience and evolution that defined the 1980s Hollywood rock scene. As a former model, mud wrestler, ring girl, fashion designer, and later a businesswoman, her journey reflects both the wild energy of the era and the emotional strength required to rebuild after heartbreak. She first rose to fame during the peak of glam metal culture, when her appearances at the Hollywood Tropicana Club and in major rock music videos made her a familiar face in the entertainment world. Today, people continue to search for her because of her turbulent marriage to Vince Neil, the tragic loss of their daughter Skylar Lynnae, her role in the infamous Vince Neil–Axl Rose rock feud, and her later appearances on Ex-Wives of Rock. Beyond the headlines, Sharise’s transformation from a glamorous party-scene star to a grounded entrepreneur and devoted mother is compelling. This article explores her early life, her rise in Los Angeles, her marriage, Skylar’s tragedy, her business ventures, her son Colt, her relationships, and her life today, offering a complete and respectful look at her fascinating story.

Profile Bio: Sharise Ruddell

Who Is Sharise Ruddell?

Sharise Lee Anne Ruddell, born in 1964, is known publicly as the former wife of Mötley Crüe vocalist Vince Neil, but her identity stretches far beyond that association. She built a dual reputation in Hollywood: a bold, confident mud wrestler and model in her early years, and later, a respected fashion designer, entrepreneur, and television personality. During the 1980s, she became an iconic figure within the glam metal world, admired for her distinctive looks, daring personality, and magnetic connections with high-profile rock stars. Over time, she evolved into a woman recognized not only for her glamorous past but also for her emotional resilience, creativity, and ability to reinvent herself after devastating personal loss. Fans see her as both a symbol of the wild Sunset Strip era and a survivor who rebuilt her life through business ventures and motherhood. Her television presence on Ex-Wives of Rock further cemented her public image as a strong, outspoken woman who lived through one of rock history’s most chaotic periods.

Early Life & Background — Growing Up in Huntington Beach, California

Sharise Ruddell was born into a comfortable and loving middle-class family in Orange County, California, where she grew up surrounded by sunshine, privilege, and opportunity. Raised by her parents Gary and Shirley Ruddell, she grew up alongside her siblings—Gary Lee, Greg, and Shanae—forming a close family bond that grounded her long before fame transformed her life. Huntington Beach, known for its wealth, surf culture, and scenic surroundings, shaped her early personality and interests. From a young age, she gravitated toward beauty, fashion, and performance, often expressing herself through style and creativity. She attended Whittier Christian High School, where she developed confidence and a desire for adventure beyond her quiet suburban upbringing. Her dream of modeling and being part of the entertainment world pushed her toward Los Angeles, where she hoped to build a life far different from the one she had known. This ambition set the foundation for her entry into the Hollywood nightlife scene and ultimately led her toward the moments that made her a recognizable figure in the glam metal era.

Starting Out in Los Angeles — Ring Girl, Mud Wrestler & Early Modeling Work

When Sharise moved to Los Angeles in her late teens, she entered a world of bright lights, opportunities, and temptation. To support herself and gain visibility, she worked at the Hollywood Tropicana Club—a legendary hotspot known for its neon lights, loud music, and infamous mud-wrestling shows that attracted celebrities, athletes, and rock stars. As a ring girl and mud wrestler, Sharise quickly became one of the club’s standout performers, captivating regulars with her beauty, athleticism, and charisma. Her presence did not go unnoticed, and soon she began receiving modeling offers, appearing in swimsuit shoots and magazines such as Blast!. She also began appearing in music videos during a time when MTV made stars overnight. Sharise featured in Autograph’s “Loud and Clear” and “Dance All Night,” as well as Mötley Crüe’s “Girls, Girls, Girls,” cementing her place in the rock entertainment scene. Her early years in Hollywood were fast-paced, glamorous, and often chaotic, but they also opened doors that would change her life forever.

Meeting Vince Neil — A Love Story Born in Hollywood’s Chaos

Sharise’s life changed dramatically in 1986 when Vince Neil hired Tropicana performers to entertain guests at one of his house parties. Among the women present was Sharise, whose presence immediately captivated the famous frontman. Vince became instantly infatuated with her, and their chemistry quickly grew into a passionate romance. In a famously romantic gesture, he even tattooed the imprint of her lips and her signature on his shoulder. Their love story unfolded against the backdrop of Hollywood’s wildest era, filled with luxury, constant media attention, and the extravagant lifestyle of a rock star at his peak. Surrounded by celebrities, parties, and cameras, the couple’s relationship progressed quickly, leading to their engagement and a lavish wedding in April 1988. For fans, their pairing seemed glamorous and electric, but behind the scenes, deeper complexities were already forming.

Married Life With Vince Neil — Glamour, Turmoil & Emotional Conflict

Life with Vince Neil brought Sharise into the heart of Mötley Crüe’s chaotic world, where fame, wealth, and heavy partying shaped daily existence. She later described Vince as having two personalities—the loving, generous husband she adored and the intoxicated, unpredictable rock star whose behavior often frightened her. The couple’s life was filled with highs, lavish gifts, and moments of passion, but also with explosive arguments and periods of emotional instability. Sharise spoke openly about trying to protect Vince from overdoses, often flushing drugs to keep him safe. The pressures of rock-star fame made their home life tumultuous, and although Vince frequently tried to win her back with extravagant gifts—including a surprise Porsche—the emotional toll became overwhelming. Their marriage became a cycle of reconciliation and conflict, mirroring the instability of the era itself. Despite the deep connection they once shared, the darker side of fame ultimately placed distance between them.

Motherhood & Tragedy — The Story of Skylar Lynnae Neil

On March 26, 1991, Sharise and Vince welcomed their daughter, Skylar Lynnae Neil, a moment that transformed Sharise’s world and brought stability and joy to her life. Motherhood softened her, grounding her amidst the turbulence of rock-star life. However, in 1995, tragedy struck when Skylar began experiencing abdominal pain, initially misdiagnosed as appendicitis. Doctors soon discovered she was suffering from Wilms’ tumor, a rare childhood kidney cancer. Skylar underwent multiple surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy, with her parents constantly by her side. Despite intense treatment and months of emotional struggle, Skylar passed away on August 15, 1995, at just four years old. The loss devastated Sharise, who later described the depth of her grief as unimaginable. She fell into depression and spent long periods isolated, relying on the slow passage of time and her loved ones to heal. Skylar’s memory remains one of the most defining and heartbreaking chapters of Sharise’s life.

Divorce From Vince Neil — The End of a Tumultuous Marriage

Sharise filed for divorce in 1993, before Skylar’s illness, marking the end of a marriage shaped by passion, fame, emotional turmoil, and constant instability. Their divorce was finalized in June 1993, with Sharise receiving an estimated settlement of around $100,000. Co-parenting after their split came with its own set of challenges, especially as they navigated the heartbreaking reality of Skylar’s diagnosis and eventual passing. Although the bitterness of their breakup occasionally resurfaced, the shared loss of their daughter created a unique emotional bond that would follow them for years. After the divorce, Sharise began pursuing her own life path, stepping away from the shadows of her rock-star marriage and focusing on rebuilding herself.

The Infamous Rock Feud — Sharise’s Role in the Vince Neil vs. Axl Rose Conflict

One of the most memorable rock feuds of the late 1980s indirectly centered around Sharise. In 1988, Guns N’ Roses guitarist Izzy Stradlin allegedly harassed and physically assaulted her at a club, an incident that left Sharise shaken and furious. When Izzy appeared at the 1989 MTV Video Music Awards, Vince Neil confronted him and punched him in the face, sparking a dramatic feud between Mötley Crüe and Guns N’ Roses. Axl Rose publicly challenged Vince to a fight, Vince accepted, and for months the media fueled anticipation, yet the showdown never happened. This feud became part of rock legend, and Sharise unintentionally found herself at the center of one of music history’s most famous conflicts.

Sharise Ruddell’s Career After Divorce — Designer, Entrepreneur & Reality Star

After stepping away from her marriage, Sharise reinvented herself as a fashion designer and later as a home renovation specialist. She designed stage outfits for celebrities and created pieces featured in Rolling Stone magazine. She launched her own clothing line, NA-NA, which gained popularity with its bold, rock-inspired style. Alongside designer Kirk Seigel, she developed the “Pink Polka Dot” brand, which grew internationally. She also designed swimsuits for Kandy Wrappers. In later years, Sharise appeared on Ex-Wives of Rock, VH1 Behind the Music specials, and E! True Hollywood Story, giving viewers insight into her life beyond the glam metal world. She eventually expanded into interior design, launching Home Sweet Home Remodel & Design in 2017. She also works as a casting producer for Renegade83 LLC, proving her versatility and long-standing creativity.

Personal Life After Vince — Relationships, New Beginnings & Parenthood

Following her divorce, Sharise entered a relationship with designer Kirk Seigel, with whom she welcomed a son, Colt Seigel, on November 3, 2002. Their relationship ended in 2006, but they continued co-parenting. Over the years, Sharise was also rumored to have dated several celebrities, including Tupac Shakur, Taime Downe, Judd Nelson, and Kelly Nickels. On the reality series Ex-Wives of Rock, she dated Brandon, whose storyline became part of the show. Her most recent known partner is Steve Kinninger, although the current status of their relationship remains unclear. Despite these ups and downs, Sharise has consistently focused on raising her children, healing from past trauma, and staying grounded.

Where Is Sharise Ruddell Now? — Her Life in 2026

Today, Sharise lives in California, where she continues her work in design and home renovation while enjoying a quieter, more balanced lifestyle. She remains close to her son Colt, who is now an adult and building his own career. Sharise frequently shares glimpses of her life on social media, showcasing renovation projects, travel moments, and her personal healing journey. After decades of public scrutiny, she has built a life defined by independence, creativity, and emotional resilience. Her estimated net worth of around $1 million reflects her years of entrepreneurship and television work. She remains admired for her ability to rise above tragedy and transform her experiences into personal strength.

Public Image, Controversies & Cultural Impact

Sharise Ruddell’s public image is a unique blend of glamour, controversy, and empowerment. Fans of glam metal remember her as a symbol of the wild, unapologetic energy of the 80s rock scene, while modern audiences appreciate her transparency, emotional honesty, and reinvention. Over the decades, she has been portrayed in magazines, documentaries, gossip columns, and reality television, each version showing a different fragment of who she is. Despite controversies, breakups, rumors, and tragedy, Sharise has emerged as a resilient woman whose life story reflects the highs and lows of rock culture. Her influence continues in fashion, pop culture, and the memories of an era that defined music history.

Conclusion 

Sharise Ruddell’s life reflects a remarkable journey through fame, heartbreak, reinvention, and strength. From her beginnings as a mud wrestler in Hollywood to the heights of glam rock celebrity, and later the unimaginable loss of her daughter Skylar, she has lived through experiences that shaped her into a resilient and grounded woman. Her transition into fashion design, entrepreneurship, and home renovation shows her determination to redefine herself beyond her past. Today, Sharise stands as a modern example of personal growth, surviving the storms of rock-star life while carving her own path. Her story continues to fascinate fans because it captures both the wildness of an unforgettable era and the enduring power of a woman who refused to be defeated by circumstance.

FAQs About Sharise Ruddell

1. Who is Sharise Ruddell?

Sharise Ruddell is an American former model, mud wrestler, fashion designer, entrepreneur, and reality TV personality. She is best known as the ex-wife of Mötley Crüe singer Vince Neil and as a cast member of Ex-Wives of Rock.

2. How old is Sharise Ruddell?

Sharise Ruddell was born on October 27, 1964. As of 2026, she is 61 years old.

3. What happened to Sharise Ruddell’s daughter, Skylar Neil?

Sharise’s daughter, Skylar Lynnae Neil, died on August 15, 1995, at age four after battling Wilms’ tumor, a rare childhood kidney cancer. Her death remains one of the most tragic chapters of Sharise’s life.

4. What does Sharise Ruddell do now?

Sharise Ruddell currently works as a designer and businesswoman. She owns Home Sweet Home Remodel & Design and also works as a casting producer for Renegade83 LLC. She continues to live in California.

5. Did Sharise Ruddell remarry after divorcing Vince Neil?

Sharise did not remarry after her divorce from Vince Neil. She later had a long-term relationship with designer Kirk Seigel, with whom she shares a son, Colt Seigel. She has also been linked to several public figures over the years.

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