| Real Name: | Melanie Leis |
| Birthday: | July 9, 1967 |
| Net Worth | $600,000 |
| Height: | 160 cm |
| Occupation: | American Sales Executive, Business Owner, Ex-Wife of Kelly McGillis |
Melanie Leis, a sales executive and theater artist from the United States, is perhaps best known for her relationship with acclaimed actress Kelly McGillis. Born in 1967, Leis gained widespread attention due to her association with the Top Gun actress, which thrust her into the public eye.
Kelly McGillis, born on July 9, 1957, made a name for herself with her iconic roles in films such as Witness, Top Gun, and The Accused. McGillis eventually came out as a lesbian in 2009, which led to her public relationship with Melanie Leis. The couple made headlines when they entered into a civil union in 2010.
While their relationship was relatively short-lived, ending in 2011, the period in which McGillis and Leis were together is an important chapter in the lives of both women. Today, Melanie Leis resides in Philadelphia, where she continues her work in sales and theater.
Content Compass
Personal Life
Early Life and Education
Melanie Leis was born in 1967 and is currently 55 years old. Not much is known about her formative years, as she came into the limelight after being associated with Kelly McGillis. Melanie grew up in Mohnton, Pennsylvania, where she attended high school. She later pursued higher education at the Berklee College of Music, graduating with a degree in Arts, Music Production, and Performance.
Relationship with Kelly McGillis
Melanie Leis first met Kelly McGillis, a renowned Hollywood actress known for her roles in movies like Top Gun and Witness, while working as a bartender in Key West, Florida. The two later developed a romantic relationship, and their love story was made public in a New York Times profile.
In 2010, Melanie and Kelly entered into a civil union in New Jersey, with Melanie becoming Kelly’s second wife after her previous marriage to Fred Tillman. The couple had a private wedding ceremony where close friends and family members were present.
During their time together, Kelly shared custody of her two children from her previous marriage, Sonora Ashley and Kelsey Laure, with Melanie. However, the couple’s relationship eventually ended, and they separated in 2011.
Melanie’s relationship with Kelly was a significant turning point in her personal life, as it brought her into the public eye. Despite the breakup, Melanie has continued her professional journey, working as a sales executive in Philadelphia and more recently becoming the vice president of Tappit, a global cashless payment and data ecosystem for live events.
Professional Career
Melanie Leis as a Sales Executive
Melanie Leis has had an extensive career in sales, working with various companies throughout her professional journey. She started out as a retail manager for Cingular Wireless (AT&T) from September 2001 to July 2003. During her time with AT&T, she was responsible for managing sales and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Later, she joined PC Management as a District Sales Manager from February 2004 to January 2008, where she supervised a team of sales professionals and facilitated business growth. Melanie also gained experience at companies like Sovereign Bank, where she served as a Portfolio Specialist, and Broadview Networks as a Sales Executive.
In addition to her sales positions, Melanie has had roles in other industries as well. She worked with All Covered Inc, PD Corp, Simply Wireless/Mobile Now, and Retail Business Development, which helped further expand her knowledge and expertise in various fields.
Restaurant Business
Alongside her sales career, Melanie Leis has also had a passion for the restaurant industry. In 2010, she opened a restaurant called The Pop Shop in Collingswood, New Jersey. This venture showcased her entrepreneurial spirit and allowed her to combine her professional experience with her interest in the culinary world.
The Pop Shop in Collingswood quickly gained recognition for its delicious menu and inviting atmosphere, demonstrating Melanie’s skill as a business owner. The success of her restaurant highlights her diverse experience and commitment to excellence in both the sales and hospitality sectors.
In conclusion, Melanie Leis’s professional career is marked by her dedication, expertise, and passion for both sales and restaurant management. Her experiences across a range of industries make her a highly skilled and knowledgeable professional, with a strong commitment to excellence in her various endeavors.
Public Image
Melanie Leis made headlines when she became involved with Hollywood star Kelly McGillis, who is best known for her roles in films such as “Top Gun,” “Witness,” and “Made in Heaven.” Not much is known about Leis’ biography before her relationship with McGillis. However, it is established that she is a theater artist and was working as a sales executive and bartender.
Media Appearances
Leis’ relationship with McGillis brought her into the limelight, leading to several media appearances. This includes an article in the New York Times, where the couple publicly discussed their relationship. They became more vocal about their life together over time, and their openly gay partnership caught the attention of various media platforms.
While Melanie Leis may not be a television star like her ex-partner, she has been connected to the industry through McGillis’ appearances in popular shows like “The L Word.” Moreover, the couple’s public declarations of love on social media platforms like Facebook helped fans keep up with their lives and their relationship.
Personal Interests
Melanie Leis, a sales executive and theater artist, has diverse personal interests that contribute to her pursuits in life. Her appreciation for the arts is clearly evident in her background and career choices.
One of Melanie’s passions is music, specifically playing the piano and drums. She is known for her talents in these instruments, which enable her to express herself creatively and connect with others through the universal language of music. These skills not only enrich her personal life but also contribute to her work in the world of theater.
Beyond music, Melanie has a deep interest in performance art. Her theater background highlights her love for the stage and the stories that can unfold in front of an audience. As both a performer and an audience member, she appreciates the power of live performance to communicate emotions, ideas, and create memorable experiences.
Finally, Melanie’s appreciation for various forms of art further enriches her life and creative pursuits. From visual arts to literature, Melanie finds inspiration and enjoyment in different mediums. This continued appreciation for art is crucial in staying driven and engaged in her career and personal life.