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Who is Joey Buttafuoco?
Hey there! If you’ve ever been intrigued by tabloid tales and real-life scandals, the name Joey Buttafuoco might ring a bell. Born on March 11, 1956, in Massapequa, NY, Joey is an American auto body shop owner who found himself in the eye of a media storm in the early ’90s. His notoriety stems from a scandalous affair with a minor, Amy Fisher, which led to a tragic incident involving his then-wife, Mary Jo Buttafuoco. But today, we’re diving into a different aspect of his life—his net worth. How does someone with such a controversial past fare financially? Let’s find out.
| Name | Joey Buttafuoco |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Auto Body Shop Owner |
| Date of Birth | March 11, 1956 |
| Birth Place | Massapequa, NY |
| Country | United States |
| Net Worth | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Source of Income | Auto Body Shop, Media Appearances |
| Height | 5’10" |
| Weight | 180 lbs |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Spouse | Evanka Franjko (m. 2005), Mary Jo Buttafuoco (m. 1977–2003) |
| Children | Jessica Buttafuoco |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Joey Buttafuoco grew up in Massapequa, a suburban town in New York. His early life was relatively unremarkable, filled with the usual ups and downs of suburban living. He eventually took over his family’s auto body shop, a business that would later become both his livelihood and a backdrop for his infamous scandal.
The Auto Body Shop Business
Running an auto body shop in a bustling town like Massapequa can be quite lucrative. Joey’s shop specialized in car repairs and customizations, attracting a steady stream of customers. This business venture provided him with a stable income and a comfortable lifestyle, at least until his life took a dramatic turn.
The Scandal: A Turning Point
In 1992, Joey Buttafuoco’s life changed forever. He was convicted of statutory rape involving 17-year-old Amy Fisher. The affair became public knowledge after Fisher shot Joey’s wife, Mary Jo, in the face. The media frenzy that followed was relentless, labeling Fisher as the "Long Island Lolita."
Legal Troubles and Financial Impact
The scandal had a significant impact on Joey’s finances. Legal fees, settlements, and the loss of business due to his tarnished reputation took a toll. However, the media attention also brought him a different kind of financial opportunity.
Post-Scandal Ventures
Believe it or not, Joey Buttafuoco managed to turn his infamy into a source of income. He appeared on numerous talk shows and even participated in reality TV. While these ventures were often met with public disdain, they did contribute to his net worth.
Writing and Speaking Engagements
Joey also penned a book and engaged in public speaking, sharing his side of the story. These activities, though controversial, added to his financial portfolio.
Personal Life: Marriages and Family
Joey has been married twice. His first marriage to Mary Jo Buttafuoco lasted from 1977 to 2003. Despite the scandal, Mary Jo stood by him for a long time before they eventually divorced. In 2005, Joey married Evanka Franjko, and they have been together since.
Children
Joey has at least one known child, Jessica Buttafuoco. The scandal undoubtedly affected his family life, but they have managed to maintain a semblance of normalcy over the years.
Joey Buttafuoco’s Net Worth
So, what’s Joey Buttafuoco’s net worth? Estimates vary, but it’s believed to be around $20,000 to $50,000. This figure might seem modest, especially considering his media presence, but it’s important to remember the financial setbacks he faced due to legal issues and a damaged reputation.
Sources of Income
- Auto Body Shop: Despite the scandal, Joey continued to run his auto body shop, which remains a primary source of income.
- Media Appearances: Talk shows, reality TV, and interviews have provided additional revenue streams.
- Book Sales and Speaking Engagements: His book and public speaking gigs, though controversial, have also contributed to his net worth.
Current Life and Activities
Joey and his second wife, Evanka Franjko, live a relatively low-profile life compared to the media frenzy of the ’90s. They have managed to stay out of the limelight, focusing on their personal lives.
Ongoing Business Ventures
Joey continues to run his auto body shop, albeit with less fanfare. The business remains a steady source of income, allowing him to maintain a modest lifestyle.
Wrap-Up: The Legacy of Joey Buttafuoco
Joey Buttafuoco’s life is a testament to the unpredictable twists and turns that can shape one’s financial and personal journey. From a suburban auto body shop owner to a tabloid sensation, his story is as complex as it is fascinating. While his net worth may not be astronomical, it reflects a life marked by both scandal and resilience.
