Is Julie Chen Still Married to Les Moonves? Who is Julie Chen Moonves?

Is Julie Chen still married to Les Moonves? Read here about the married life and husband of the popular American television personality Julie Chen Moonves.

by Aishwarya R

Updated May 25, 2023

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Is Julie Chen Still Married to Les Moonves? Who is Julie Chen Moonves?
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Who is Julie Chen Moonves?

Julie Suzanne changed her name to Julie Suzanne Chen Moonves after her marriage to a man who is 20 years older than her. She is a remarkable American television personality, who exudes an electrifying presence that captivates audiences around the nation. With her magnetic charm, she has etched her name into the annals of broadcasting history as an esteemed news anchor, producer, and host for the prestigious CBS network.

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Since the exhilarating debut of the American version of the renowned reality television program Big Brother in July 2000, Julie Chen Moonves has held the reins as its beloved host, guiding viewers through exhilarating twists and turns in the captivating game of strategy and human dynamics. During her illustrious career, Julie Chen Moonves has showcased her exceptional talents in various roles.

From 2002 to 2010, she graced the television screens as a co-anchor of the esteemed CBS morning show, The Early Show. Her eloquence and professionalism shone brightly, earning her the admiration and respect of audiences nationwide. In a fateful turn of destiny, Julie Chen Moonves found love with CBS executive Les Moonves, tying the knot in 2004. Their union was not just a personal milestone but also a testament to Julie's unwavering commitment to her craft and the network she cherished.

In 2010, Julie Chen Moonves embarked on a new venture as a co-host and the esteemed moderator of the dynamic CBS Daytime talk show, The Talk. Her intellect and wit breathed life into thought-provoking discussions, captivating viewers with her insight and charisma. However, as fate would have it, unforeseen circumstances shook her world. In 2018, faced with disturbing allegations against her beloved husband Les Moonves, Julie Chen Moonves made the brave decision to step away from The Talk.

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The indomitable spirit within her refused to be silenced, and she rose above the storm with grace and resilience. Reinventing herself yet again, Julie Chen Moonves boldly embraced her married name, forever altering her signature sign-off during the September 13, 2018 episode of Big Brother. With a poignant declaration of "I'm Julie Chen Moonves, goodnight," she fearlessly owned her truth and demonstrated her unwavering support for her husband, despite the challenges they faced.

In addition to her illustrious television career, Julie Chen Moonves expanded her creative prowess into the realm of children's literature. In 2018, she authored her first enchanting book, When I Grow Up, a heartfelt dedication to her cherished son, Charlie. Through the power of storytelling, Julie Chen Moonves nurtures young minds and instills dreams in the hearts of children, inspiring them to embrace their limitless potential.

Julie Chen Moonves stands as an embodiment of strength, resilience, and unwavering loyalty. Her magnetic presence, exceptional talents, and unyielding determination have solidified her as an influential figure in the realm of broadcasting. With each new chapter, she continues to inspire and captivate audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of American television.

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Is Julie Chen Still Married to Les Moonves?

Yes, Julie Chen is still married to Les Moonves. She has been married to Les Moonves for nearly two decades. Their love story began in 2004, shortly after Les finalized his divorce from his first wife. At the time, Julie was already four years into her role as the host of the iconic reality series Big Brother, which originated from a Dutch show. As the CEO of CBS, Les Moonves played a prominent role in the network where Julie worked.

In 2018, Les Moonves faced a series of serious allegations of sexual harassment, which ultimately led to his resignation as chairman and CEO of CBS. However, prior to his departure, Julie made a significant decision that surprised viewers. During a September 2018 episode of Big Brother, she spontaneously signed off using her married name, Julie Chen Moonves, instead of her maiden name. This unexpected change marked a turning point in her public identity.

Julie later revealed that she had not informed anyone in advance about her decision to use her married name on the show. In a moment of spontaneity, her heart racing, she made the choice to embrace her husband's last name. This impulsive act became a defining moment for her, symbolizing her unwavering support for her husband during a challenging time.

Following the episode, CBS acknowledged Julie Chen Moonves' name change in a press release for the second season of Celebrity Big Brother. From that point forward, she continued to use her married name professionally, cementing her commitment to her husband and their enduring partnership.

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Julie Chen Moonves and Les Moonves exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony held in Mexico in December 2004. Their love story further blossomed with the arrival of their son Charlie in September 2009. Les also has three children from his previous marriage.

In the face of the allegations against her husband, Julie stood by him staunchly. Taking to social media, she publicly defended Les, emphasizing her longstanding connection with him and expressing her belief in his character and integrity. She portrayed him as a good man, a loving father, a devoted husband, and an inspiring corporate leader. Her unwavering support echoed her deep-rooted conviction about his kindness, decency, and moral compass.

Through the trials and challenges they have faced, Julie Chen Moonves and Les Moonves have remained a united force, their bond strengthened by love and resilience. Their journey, intertwined with the intricacies of the television industry, serves as a testament to their enduring commitment and shared pursuit of success.

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All About Julie Chen Husband

Les Moonves, born on October 6, 1949, grew up in the vibrant neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, surrounded by his Jewish family and three siblings. After completing his education at Bucknell University, where he pursued studies in pre-med and Spanish, he embarked on an unexpected journey, deciding to venture into the world of acting.

Following his college years, Les honed his craft at the esteemed Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre. He made his initial mark with minor roles in television series such as "Barbary Coast," "Cannon," and "The Six Million Dollar Man." However, his true passion lay behind the scenes, prompting him to transition into the realm of television production.

In 1985, Les found his creative home at Lorimar Television, assuming the role of overseeing the company's movies and miniseries. His talent and acumen propelled him to the position of president of Lorimar in 1990, where he left an indelible mark during his three-year tenure. Following the acquisition of Lorimar by Warner Bros., Les ascended to the prestigious positions of President and CEO of Warner Bros. Television in 1993.

During his time at Warner Bros. Television, Les Moonves made pivotal decisions that shaped the landscape of television entertainment. Greenlighting groundbreaking shows such as "Friends" and "ER," he showcased his exceptional instincts for recognizing creative brilliance. This period marked a golden era of success for the network, solidifying Les Moonves' reputation as a visionary leader. His achievements did not go unnoticed, as he was featured on the cover of New York magazine, aptly hailed as "Mr. TV," alongside esteemed stars Jennifer Aniston, Teri Hatcher, and George Clooney.

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In his personal life, Les married Nancy Wiesenfeld in 1978, and together they welcomed three children into the world. However, the marriage encountered challenges, leading to their decision to file for divorce in 2003. Around this tumultuous period, a new chapter unfolded in Les Moonves' life when he embarked on a romance with Julie Chen. Only 13 days after the finalization of his divorce on December 10, 2004, Les and Julie exchanged vows in a picturesque ceremony held in Acapulco, Mexico. The union of their hearts and souls was blessed with the arrival of their son, Charlie, in 2009.

Amidst his illustrious career, Les Moonves faced significant upheaval as allegations of sexual harassment emerged. In light of these accusations, he made the difficult decision to step down from his position at CBS. This marked a profound turning point in his personal and professional life, prompting reflection and introspection.

Les Moonves' journey is a testament to his multifaceted talents and relentless pursuit of excellence. From his humble beginnings as an aspiring actor to his influential roles as a television executive, he left an indelible mark on the industry. Though his path encountered obstacles, his legacy remains intertwined with the transformative shows he championed and the impact he made on the world of television.

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Julie Chen Moonves Net Worth

Julie Chen has garnered her income through various sources related to her successful career in the television industry. As a prominent television personality, news anchor, and producer, she has been able to secure substantial earnings from her work. It is need to sais that her husband Les Moonves has a net worth of $400 million.  One of the primary sources of Julie Chen's income is her role as the host of the American version of the CBS reality-television program Big Brother.

She has been the face of the show since its debut in July 2000, and her captivating presence and hosting skills have undoubtedly contributed to her financial success. In addition to her hosting duties on Big Brother, Julie Chen has held notable positions on other CBS programs. From 2002 to 2010, she served as a co-anchor on The Early Show, further establishing her presence and expertise in the broadcasting industry. Her contributions to these programs would have contributed to her overall income.

Julie Chen's involvement in the CBS Daytime talk show The Talk, as a co-host and moderator until 2018, also played a significant role in her earnings. However, it's important to note that she left the show following her husband Les Moonves' sexual assault and sexual harassment allegations that came to light during that time. Beyond her on-screen roles, Julie Chen has explored her creative talents as a producer, further expanding her income streams. While specific projects and productions she has been involved in are not mentioned, her experience and connections within the industry likely provided opportunities for producing ventures.

Additionally, Julie Chen's endeavors as an author have contributed to her income. In 2018, she published her first children's book, titled "When I Grow Up," which she dedicated to her son, Charlie. Book sales and related royalties could serve as another income source for her. Furthermore, Julie Chen has had endorsement deals and brand partnerships throughout her career, which could provide additional financial benefits. These collaborations may include sponsored content, product endorsements, or promotional campaigns.

While the exact breakdown of Julie Chen's income is not publicly available, it is evident that her multifaceted career, encompassing hosting, producing, and writing, has enabled her to secure a substantial income and establish herself as a successful figure in the television industry.

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Julie Chen Moonves Net Worth

Name

Julie Chen Moonves 

Net Worth 2023

$30 Million

Profession

Presenter, anchor and producer

Source of Income

Through her Television career

Age

53

Julie Chen Moonves Family

Julie Chen, a truly remarkable woman, hails from an extraordinary heritage. As the daughter of Chinese immigrants, her story is infused with cultural richness and the power of resilience. She was brought into this world in the vibrant borough of Queens, New York City, adding a touch of enchantment to the bustling metropolis.

Julie's mother, Wang Ling Chen, carries a captivating backstory of her own, having grown up in the enchanting city of Rangoon, Burma. Meanwhile, her father, David Chen, embarked on a courageous journey, fleeing China to seek refuge in Taiwan during the turbulent times of the Chinese Civil War. Their collective experiences are a testament to the indomitable spirit that runs through Julie's veins.

The tapestry of Julie Chen's ancestry is interwoven with tales of her maternal grandfather, Lou Gaw Tong. Rising from humble beginnings in the rural village of Penglai in Fujian province, China, he transformed his life, amassing wealth through a chain of grocery stores. His astounding success even led him to become a polygamist, with a large family consisting of nine wives and eleven children. Such stories of triumph over adversity inspire a deep sense of awe and admiration.

Julie cherishes her familial bonds, with two loving and supportive older sisters, Gladys and Victoria, by her side. Their shared experiences and enduring sisterhood undoubtedly add warmth and love to Julie's life.

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During her formative years, Julie attended junior high school in the delightful Whitestone area of Queens. It was here that she began to blossom, nourished by the vibrant community around her. Her educational journey continued at St. Francis Preparatory School, where she graduated in 1987, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.

Driven by her passion for storytelling and communication, Julie pursued her dreams at the esteemed University of Southern California. With a twinkle in her eye, she immersed herself in the world of broadcast journalism and English, savoring every moment of her education. Her time at USC served as a transformative period, nurturing her talents and igniting the spark of her remarkable career.

Julie Chen's remarkable heritage, filled with tales of resilience, love, and triumph, has shaped her into the extraordinary woman we know and adore. Her journey from the multicultural streets of Queens to the pinnacle of the broadcasting industry is a testament to her unwavering spirit and the power of dreams. Julie's lovable nature and magnetic personality captivate audiences worldwide, allowing us to share in her joy and celebrate the extraordinary tapestry of her life.

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Is Julie Chen Still Married to Les Moonves - FAQs

1. When did Julie Chen start hosting Big Brother?  

Julie Chen began hosting the American version of the CBS reality-television program Big Brother since its debut in July 2000.

 

2. What led Julie Chen to start using her married name, Julie Chen Moonves?

Julie Chen started using her married name, Julie Chen Moonves, after her husband, Les Moonves, resigned from his position as chairman and CEO of CBS in September 2018 following multiple allegations of sexual harassment. She made the decision to change her on-air name during a live episode of Big Brother in September 2018.

3. What is Julie Chen's background?

Julie Chen is the daughter of Chinese immigrants. Her mother, Wang Ling Chen, grew up in Rangoon, Burma, while her father, David Chen, was born in China and fled to Taiwan after the Chinese Civil War. Julie has two older sisters, Gladys and Victoria.

4. What were Les Moonves' contributions to the television industry?

Les Moonves made significant contributions to the television industry throughout his career. As President and CEO of Warner Bros. Television, he greenlit popular shows like "Friends" and "ER." Later, as president of CBS Entertainment, he played a pivotal role in the success of the network, earning the nickname "Mr. TV."

 

5. What book did Julie Chen author, and who was it dedicated to?  

Julie Chen authored her first children's book titled "When I Grow Up." The book is dedicated to her son, Charlie, reflecting her love and dedication as a mother.

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