Sheldon Souray Net Worth 2024: Career, Earnings & Biography

Early Life and Background

Born on July 13, 1976, in the small town of Elk Point, Alberta, Canada, Sheldon Souray grew up in a family that valued both athletics and heritage. He is of Métis ancestry and was raised alongside his older sister by his parents, Lillian and Richard Souray. His formative years were spent in Edmonton, where he attended Archbishop O'Leary Catholic High School, laying the groundwork for what would become a distinguished professional hockey career.

Career and Breakthrough

Souray's journey to the NHL began in junior leagues, where he played for several Western Hockey League teams including the Tri-City Americans, Prince George Cougars, and Kelowna Rockets, as well as time with the Albany River Rats in the AHL. The New Jersey Devils selected him with the 71st overall pick in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft, and he made his NHL debut with the team during the 1997-98 season. His career took a significant turn when he was traded to the Montreal Canadiens midway through the 1999-2000 season, where he developed into one of the league's most formidable defensemen, known for his thunderous slapshot and physical presence. The 2006-07 season marked his breakout year, as he set an NHL record with 19 power-play goals by a defenseman and recorded career highs of 26 goals and 64 points. This exceptional performance made him one of the most sought-after free agents, leading to a lucrative five-year, $27 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers in 2007. Despite high expectations in Edmonton, injuries and management conflicts plagued his tenure, eventually resulting in a contract buyout in 2011. Souray then revitalized his career with the Dallas Stars, signing a one-year "show me" contract and demonstrating he still had value as an NHL defenseman. His comeback earned him a three-year, $11 million deal with the Anaheim Ducks in 2012, where he continued to contribute until a severe wrist injury ended his playing career. Throughout his 14-season NHL career spanning from 1997 to 2013, Souray played for five teams and accumulated approximately 300 career points. He also represented Canada internationally, earning a silver medal at the 2005 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship during the NHL lockout.

Personal Life

Souray has been married three times, with each marriage reflecting different chapters of his life. He first wed actress and model Angelica Bridges in 2002, with whom he had two daughters, Valentina and Scarlett, before their divorce in 2007. In 2011, he began a relationship with model and professional wrestler Barbie Blank, better known by her WWE ring name Kelly Kelly. They married in 2016 but divorced the following year. Souray found lasting happiness with his third wife, model Tess Annique, whom he married in 2021. Together, they have a son named Oliver and currently reside in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Net Worth and Income Sources

Sheldon Souray has accumulated an estimated net worth of $16 million through his successful NHL career and subsequent ventures. His total career earnings from salaries, signing bonuses, and contract buyouts reached approximately $36.5 million over 14 professional seasons. His most lucrative contract came in 2007 when he signed a five-year, $27 million deal with the Edmonton Oilers, which at the time made him one of the highest-paid defensemen in the league. Additional income has likely come from endorsement deals, appearances, and his post-hockey activities. His financial portfolio is complemented by real estate investments and business ventures that have helped maintain his wealth following his retirement from professional hockey in 2015.