Maria Menounos

Maria Menounos is a versatile American-Greek television personality, journalist, actress, producer, author, and entrepreneur whose career spans network broadcasting, digital media, and wellness advocacy. Born on June 8, 1978, in Medford, Massachusetts, she was raised by Greek immigrant parents, Costas and Litsa Menounos, who worked as janitors to support the family. From a young age, Maria was deeply connected to her cultural roots and community, attending the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Somerville.

She began her media journey at Emerson College, where she studied broadcast journalism and launched her early reporting career. Her strong work ethic, storytelling talent, and charismatic presence helped her rise quickly—leading to major roles across television, film, and digital platforms. Maria’s personal story is one of persistence and range: she has seamlessly balanced mainstream Hollywood success with independent entrepreneurial ventures and health advocacy, building a reputation as one of entertainment’s most multifaceted figures.... Show More

Maria Menounos is a versatile American-Greek television personality, journalist, actress, producer, author, and entrepreneur whose career spans network broadcasting, digital media, and wellness advocacy. Born on June 8, 1978, in Medford, Massachusetts, she was raised by Greek immigrant parents, Costas and Litsa Menounos, who worked as janitors to support the family. From a young age, Maria was deeply connected to her cultural roots and community, attending the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Somerville.

She began her media journey at Emerson College, where she studied broadcast journalism and launched her early reporting career. Her strong work ethic, storytelling talent, and charismatic presence helped her rise quickly—leading to major roles across television, film, and digital platforms. Maria’s personal story is one of persistence and range: she has seamlessly balanced mainstream Hollywood success with independent entrepreneurial ventures and health advocacy, building a reputation as one of entertainment’s most multifaceted figures.

Career in Media and Entertainment

Maria’s television career includes hosting and correspondent roles for:

• Extra
• E! News
• Access Hollywood
• Today

She co-hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 2006 and made appearances on shows like The Challenge and Dancing with the Stars. As an actress, she’s had roles in Fantastic Four, Entourage, Kickin’ It Old Skool, and One Tree Hill.

Entrepreneurship and Digital Media

In partnership with her husband, Keven Undergaro, Maria co-founded AfterBuzz TV—an online network producing after-shows for hundreds of television series. At its peak, the platform featured more than 250 hosts and reached over 20 million viewers globally, cementing her role as a pioneer in the world of digital content creation.

She’s also authored several lifestyle and wellness books:

• The EveryGirl’s Guide to Life
• The EveryGirl’s Guide to Diet and Fitness
• The EveryGirl’s Guide to Cooking
• Better Together

These titles reflect her focus on practical, empowering advice for women navigating modern life.

Health Advocacy and Personal Life

Maria has spoken openly about her health battles—including a benign brain tumor diagnosis in 2017 and stage II pancreatic cancer in 2023. After successful surgeries, she became a vocal advocate for wellness and early detection. Her podcast, Heal Squad x Maria Menounos, centers on personal growth, holistic health, and mindful living.

She married Keven Undergaro in a televised ceremony officiated by Steve Harvey on December 31, 2017. In June 2023, the couple welcomed their daughter, Athena Alexandra, via surrogate.

Ongoing Legacy

Today, Maria Menounos continues to inspire through her work across entertainment, wellness, and entrepreneurship. Her journey—from modest beginnings to media mogul—reflects a rare combination of ambition, authenticity, and resilience. Whether on screen or behind the scenes, she remains a powerful voice in both the entertainment industry and the health advocacy space.