Tanya Hijazi is an accomplished American actress and Hollywood costume designer, widely recognized for her creative contributions in film and fashion. Born in 1972, she gained public attention as the ex-wife of legendary musician Rick James, navigating a unique personal and professional journey that blends the glamour of Hollywood with her own artistic achievements.
Beyond her high-profile marriage, Tanya has built a respected career in costume and fashion design, working on notable projects like the 2005 film “The Unseen”. Her story reflects resilience, creativity, and reinvention, making her a notable figure in the entertainment and fashion industries, inspiring aspiring designers and actors alike.
Key Fact
| Key Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tanya Anne Hijazi |
| Date of Birth | 1972 |
| Age | 53 years (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Weight | 121 lbs (55 kg) |
Early Life of Tanya Hijazi
Tanya Hijazi was born in 1972 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, to her mother Marta Margarita Mueses, growing up with a mixed ethnic background that shaped her diverse cultural perspective. From an early age, Tanya displayed a keen interest in arts and performance, laying the foundation for her future career in acting and fashion design.
Raised in the United States, Tanya developed a sense of independence and creativity, which later guided her path into Hollywood’s entertainment industry. Her formative years were marked by both ambition and adaptability, qualities that helped her navigate the challenges of fame and personal growth in her adult life.
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Full name/Real name:
Tanya Anne Hijazi
Birth date/Birth place:
Born in 1972, United States of America
Family background:
- Mother: Suzzane Shapiro
- Father: Unknown
- Has a younger sister named Tashia
Career Journey of Tanya Hijazi
Tanya Hijazi began her professional journey as an actress, gaining public attention through her relationship with iconic musician Rick James. Her breakthrough came in the early 1990s, when she navigated the challenges of fame while balancing her personal life and motherhood, eventually marrying Rick James in 1997. This period of her life brought her into the spotlight, intertwining her personal story with the legacy of a music legend.
During her peak years, Tanya transitioned into a successful career as a fashion and costume designer, showcasing her creative talents behind the scenes in Hollywood. Notable works include her costume design for the 2005 film “The Unseen”, as well as appearances in documentaries and television programs related to Rick James, such as “I’m Rick James” and “Unsung”. Tanya’s career evolution highlights her versatility and resilience, establishing her as a respected figure in both entertainment and fashion industries.
Physical Appearance of Tanya Hijazi
Age:
53 years old (as of 2025)
Height:
5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
Weight:
121 lbs (55 kg)
Physical attributes:
- Hair Color: Brown
- Eye Color: Brown
- Ethnicity: Mixed
Major Achievements of Tanya Hijazi
Tanya Hijazi is recognized for her remarkable contributions to both the entertainment and fashion industries. She gained widespread attention through her association with Rick James, navigating the public eye while raising their son, Tazman James, and establishing her personal identity. Her resilience and ability to maintain professionalism during challenging times have made her a notable figure in Hollywood circles.
Beyond her public recognition, Tanya has achieved success as a fashion and costume designer, with notable work including the 2005 film “The Unseen”. She has also contributed to television programs and documentaries about Rick James, such as “I’m Rick James” and “Unsung”, showcasing her creative vision and versatility. These achievements reflect her ability to reinvent herself and leave a lasting impact in both creative design and entertainment.
Personal Life of Tanya Hijazi
Family:
- Mother: Suzzane Shapiro
- Has a younger sister named Tashia
- Son: Tazman James (with late musician Rick James)
Nationality:
American
Religion:
Christianity
Ethnicity:
Mixed
Marital status/Relationship:
Divorced from musician Rick James (married 1997–2002)
Net worth:
Estimated between $4 million and $5 million as of 2025
Social media presence:
Not active or publicly known to have significant presence on major social media platforms
| Platform | Account Handle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| @tanyahijazi | Active, content not very frequent | |
| Tanya Hijazi | Profile available | |
| No verified/main account found | ||
| TikTok | No verified account found |
Interesting Facts About Tanya Hijazi
- Early Marriage: Tanya met Rick James at 17, with a 24-year age difference between them.
- Motherhood: She is the mother of Tazman James, born in 1993.
- Legal Challenges: Tanya served 15 months for assault during legal issues in the early 1990s.
- Costume Design: She worked as a costume designer for the 2005 film “The Unseen.”
- Multitalented Career: Tanya transitioned from actress to fashion and costume designer, establishing her own creative path in Hollywood.
Conclusion of Tanya Hijazi
Tanya Hijazi has navigated a life marked by both personal challenges and professional reinvention, evolving from her early years as the wife of music legend Rick James to a respected actress and Hollywood costume designer. Her journey highlights resilience, creativity, and the ability to redefine oneself despite public scrutiny and legal hurdles. Through her work in films like “The Unseen” and appearances in documentaries about Rick James, Tanya has carved a distinct identity in the entertainment industry.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Tanya’s story reflects her commitment to personal growth and creative expression. As a mother to Tazman James, she balances family responsibilities while continuing to influence the fashion and costume design world. Her legacy is a testament to the power of adaptation, artistry, and perseverance, inspiring others to embrace both challenges and opportunities in their personal and professional lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tanya Hijazi
1. Who is Tanya Hijazi?
Tanya Hijazi is an American actress and Hollywood costume designer, known as the ex-wife of musician Rick James.
2. When and where was Tanya Hijazi born?
She was born in 1972 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and is now an American national.
3. What are Tanya Hijazi’s notable achievements?
She worked as a costume designer on the film “The Unseen” (2005) and appeared in documentaries about Rick James.
4. Who are Tanya Hijazi’s family members?
Tanya has a son, Tazman James, with Rick James and was married to him from 1997 to 2002.
5. What is Tanya Hijazi’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is $4–5 million, earned through acting, costume design, and personal assets.
