Toya Wright, also known as Toya Johnson-Rushing, is a woman who has worn many hats in her career. From reality star to author and entrepreneur, Toya Wright’s life has been a compelling mix of triumphs and trials that have captivated audiences for years. In this blog, we’ll explore her journey to success, her enduring strength, and the factors that have shaped her into the resilient figure she is today.
Table of Contents:
- From New Orleans Streets to Reality TV: Toya Wright’s Rise
- Beyond the Screen: Author, Entrepreneur, and Community Champion
- Facing Tragedy, Finding Love: Toya Wright’s Strength in Adversity
- To Toya Wright’s Journey
- FAQs About Toya Wright
- Conclusion
From New Orleans Streets to Reality TV: Toya Wright’s Rise
Born and raised in New Orleans, Toya Wright first entered the public eye through her marriage to rapper Lil Wayne when they were both young. Her early life in the city heavily influenced her strength and independent spirit, traits she carried throughout her evolving career.
Reality TV Beginnings
Toya Johnson’s debut into the world of reality television was alongside her best friend Tiny Harris in the aptly named show, “Tiny and Toya,” which premiered in 2009. It was a big hit, drawing in three million viewers, as reported by CelebrityNetWorth. This not only made it the highest-rated series debut in BET history but also launched Toya into a whole new sphere of influence and recognition.
Following “Tiny and Toya,” Toya starred in her own series, “Toya: A Family Affair,” offering an even more personal glimpse into her world. This series provided a glimpse into the complex dynamics of her family.
A Screen Star’s Evolution
Since those early reality TV days, Toya Wright has graced our screens in several other series including “Growing Up Hip Hop: Atlanta”, “Marriage Boot Camp: Bridezillas”, “T.I. & Tiny: Friends and Family Hustle”, and most recently “Toya & Reginae”. Toya hasn’t just starred in these shows, but also delved into producing, demonstrating her keen business acumen. She even made an appearance as an actress in the heartwarming “Hip Hop Family Christmas Wedding.”
Beyond the Screen: Author, Entrepreneur, and Community Champion
But Toya Johnson’s journey didn’t stop with reality television. It was just one avenue she chose to explore, never allowing it to limit her ambitions or define her completely.
Wordsmith: Toya’s Literary Pursuits
Her books provide further insight into Toya’s life journey and motivations. With titles like “Priceless Inspirations,” “How to Lose a Husband” (published under the name Toya Wright), and “In My Own WORDS…MY Real Reality,” she opens up to readers, sharing lessons learned from both success and hardship. What I found interesting was the book “You Just Don’t Get It”, which Toya Johnson co-wrote with her daughter Reginae Carter. It’s such a great example of family collaboration, showcasing their unique mother-daughter bond.
Beyond Clothing: Toya Johnson’s Diverse Business Ventures
Ever the savvy businesswoman, Toya Johnson also established herself as a brand owner. In 2010, she partnered with singer Kandi Burruss and rapper Rasheeda to open her clothing store “G.A.R.B.” in New Orleans. Its success allowed her to expand her entrepreneurial footprint, eventually leading to the opening of her second location, a shoe store named “GARB Shoetique,” in 2012 in Smyrna, Georgia. You can tell Toya knows how to diversify her interests.
She didn’t just stop at fashion though. With Robert “Red” Rushing, her fiancé at the time, they co-founded “Weight No More”, promoting a healthier lifestyle within the community.
More Than a Reality Star
Toya has even shared insights on how they tackle “Weight No More” according to a 2022 article from Revolt. “We’re about to be a huge brand,” Red enthused, revealing how their vision goes far beyond just fitness. “It’s going on a level I couldn’t even have thought of,” he said. Together, they have organized several fitness events across different states, selling athletic apparel and other fitness items. Toya’s efforts with Weight No More are commendable, not just for encouraging health but also for strengthening community bonds through shared activities.
Facing Tragedy, Finding Love: Toya Wright’s Strength in Adversity
Life hasn’t been without challenges for Toya Wright. One can’t help but feel for Toya, especially after she went through the unimaginable pain of losing her two younger brothers. Tragically, both were shot to death in New Orleans back in July 2016, according to a Yahoo. News article that reported on the tragic incident.
Navigating Heartbreak
To make matters even harder for Toya Wright, this all happened shortly after she had separated from her second husband. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE in 2016, Toya described how former husband, Lil Wayne, was a rock during that time. He was there to support his daughter, Reginae, and their whole family through the unthinkable. Despite their separation in 2006, it’s clear that Toya and Lil Wayne have maintained a healthy and respectful relationship that puts family first, which I find admirable.
The Unwavering Support of ‘Red’
As heartbreaking as it was to lose her brothers, the tragedy brought into focus a love that had quietly blossomed amid adversity. Red recounted on a 2022 episode of “Big Facts” how supporting Toya during that period helped him realize that “that’s the one.” Her fiance, Robert “Red” Rushing, stepped in as a pillar of support during her grief. What struck Toya was not just his support for her but also for her extended family, especially for Joshua’s daughter, Jashae, whom Toya took in after her brother’s death.
Finding Light in Darkness
“The way he stepped up for my niece,” she recalled in that same “Big Facts” interview . Toya was truly moved by Red’s willingness to take on that responsibility. “He do everything for my niece like it’s his — and Reginae,” she explained. “It takes a village,” she acknowledged, emphasizing the value of their close-knit dynamic.
Red, ever attentive and caring, sought to help her heal and rebuild. His consistent effort and thoughtfulness cemented a lasting bond between them. Their engagement was announced on Instagram in 2019, followed by their beautiful wedding celebration on October 15, 2022. And of course, Toya and Red didn’t just stop there.
To Toya Wright’s Journey
Toya Wright’s path hasn’t always been easy. She has dealt with heartache and immense loss, and navigated both marriage and divorce with grace. It seems her journey serves as a reminder to us all about embracing life’s curveballs, building a family network you can lean on, and continuously reaching for new goals. Through it all, Toya has stayed true to her entrepreneurial spirit, working hard to carve out a path as an author and reality star. With each chapter, her story continues to resonate, encouraging fans everywhere to chase their dreams while keeping family at the core of their lives.
FAQs About Toya Wright
How Many Husbands Has Toya Had?
Toya Johnson has been married three times. Her first husband was rapper Lil Wayne, her second was music executive Memphitz, and her third, and current, husband is entrepreneur Robert “Red” Rushing.
Did Toya Wright Have A Baby?
Yes, Toya Johnson has two daughters. Her oldest daughter, Reginae Carter, is with her first husband, Lil Wayne. Her second daughter, Reign Ryan Rushing, is with her current husband, Robert Rushing.
What Happened To Toya Wright And Memphitz?
Toya Wright’s marriage to Memphitz, real name Mickey Wright, lasted five years, from 2011 to 2016. The reason for their separation isn’t definitively known, as Toya generally avoids discussing this publicly.
What Happened To Toya Wright’s Brother?
Toya Wright’s brothers, Ryan “Rudy” and Joshua “Fish” Johnson, were shot and killed on July 31, 2016, in New Orleans.
Conclusion
Toya Wright’s life is a powerful example of how success isn’t always linear and how strength can emerge from the toughest challenges. It’s also clear that toya wright has built a solid career for herself. It’s inspiring to see her navigate the limelight of reality television and then turn those experiences into ventures as an author, entrepreneur, and advocate for health and wellness. Ultimately, it is Toya Wright’s resilience and commitment to family that make her story so impactful for fans everywhere.
Related posts:
The Untold Truth: Wesley Snipes’ Legacy, Triumphs & Comebacks
Barry Gibbs: The Enduring Legacy of a Music Legend Net Worth VIP
Urijah Faber: The California Kid’s Rise To MMA Fame Net Worth VIP
From Dallas Star to Business Icon: Unmasking Victoria Principal
Tyson Chandler: An In-Depth Look at the NBA Champion’s Career and Impact
The Story of Twista: Beyond the Fastest Rapper Title