Cynthia Bailey is an American model, actress and television personality. She became a household name after appearing on Real Housewives of Atlanta. She introduced an exciting dynamic to the cast, being a well-known model and actress. The show follows her founding and running the Bailey School of Fashion, and the ups and downs of her engagement and wedding plans with Mike Hill.

Prior to appearing on Real Housewives, Cynthia was an established model. Born and raised in Tuscumba, Alabama, she moved to New York at 18, and signed a five-year contract with Wilhelmina Models. She earned many successes, appearing in campaigns with supermodels Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell and Chanel Iman. She has spoken out on the difficulties she faced at the beginning of her career. A common obstacle was the lack of diversity within the modelling agencies. Nevertheless, she was able to have a successful career, due to her self-belief and strong ambitions.

Alongside her modelling career, Cynthia has appeared on a variety of different media – in music videos, films and television. She starred in the films Without You I’m Nothing and For Love Nor Money. She has also amassed several acting credits, most recently starring in the shows Tales and Star. She continues to model herself, whilst mentoring and educating other aspiring models. A keen entrepreneur, she established a wine bar in Atlanta: The Bailey Wine Cellar.