Alexis Gilbert Stewart, born on September 27, 1965, in New York City, is known not only as the only daughter of lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart but also for making her own mark in the world of television and radio. Now 59, Alexis has built a career and family while often speaking candidly about her unique relationship with her famous mother. While her current net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, Alexis remains known for her personal journey and independence, raising two children as a single mother. This article explores Alexis Stewart’s life, from her upbringing to her career, relationships, and family life.
Early Life and Education
Born into a life of prominence, Alexis Stewart grew up splitting her time between Manhattan and the family home in the Berkshires. Her parents, Martha and Andrew Stewart, married young and were together for 29 years before their eventual separation. Growing up, Alexis attended boarding school in Vermont before pursuing a degree in English from Barnard College, the same institution her mother attended. Despite her privileged background, Alexis has openly described her childhood as complicated and occasionally difficult.
In her 2011 memoir, Whateverland: Learning to Live Here, co-written with Jennifer Koppelman Hutt, Alexis revealed that her relationship with her mother was both close and challenging. She shared a unique insight into Martha Stewart’s parenting style, saying she “grew up with a glue gun pointed at my head,” a humorous, albeit pointed, observation on her mother’s perfectionism.
The Complicated Parent-Child Bond
Although Alexis and her mother have a deep bond, their relationship has had its share of ups and downs. Martha herself admitted that they have a “difficult mother-daughter relationship” but emphasized that they would “do anything for each other.” Alexis echoed this sentiment, explaining that their strong opinions occasionally lead to animated debates, but they remain close and supportive.
In Whateverland, Alexis shared anecdotes of her mother’s demanding nature. Holidays were devoid of traditional activities; for example, Halloween was marked by turning off the lights rather than dressing up in costumes. While Alexis’s portrayal of her upbringing was unfiltered, she dedicated the book to her mother, who also contributed to it, reflecting the respect and closeness that underpins their sometimes tumultuous relationship.
Career in TV and Radio
Much like her mother, Alexis pursued a career in media. In 2005, she co-hosted a radio show titled Whatever with Alexis and Jennifer alongside Jennifer Koppelman Hutt on SiriusXM’s Martha Stewart Living Radio channel. The duo shared insights on lifestyle topics and personal experiences, striking a chord with listeners. Their success led to a TV show, Whatever, Martha, in which they humorously critiqued old episodes of Martha Stewart Living. The show ran for two seasons, and Alexis demonstrated her ability to carve her own path while still embracing the Stewart legacy.
Marriage and Divorce
In 1997, Alexis married lawyer John Cuti in a quiet New York City ceremony attended by only a handful of guests. The marriage, however, did not last. The couple separated in 2003 and finalized their divorce a year later. During this period, Cuti served as a trial lawyer in Martha Stewart’s high-profile insider trading case, underscoring the complexities in the Stewart family’s public life. While Alexis and Cuti did not have children together, Alexis continued to prioritize her desire to become a mother, which ultimately led to her fertility journey.
Fertility Journey and Motherhood
Determined to become a parent, Alexis undertook fertility treatments for several years, a challenging journey she openly discussed in a 2007 appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Alexis revealed the emotional and financial toll of undergoing IVF, at times spending up to $27,000 a month. Throughout the process, she had the unwavering support of her mother, who encouraged her to persevere.
In 2011, after years of dedication, Alexis welcomed her first child, a daughter named Jude, via gestational surrogate at age 45. A year later, she welcomed a son, Truman, also via surrogacy. Alexis has shared that although her journey to motherhood was difficult, she feels incredibly fortunate to have Jude and Truman in her life. Martha, now a proud grandmother, has shared moments with her grandchildren on social media, including a recent post celebrating Jude’s 12th birthday.
A Strong Bond Despite Differences
Over the years, Alexis and Martha’s relationship has grown more complex but remains grounded in love and mutual respect. Although they have experienced their fair share of disagreements, their support for one another is unwavering. In a 2020 interview, Martha admitted that balancing her career with motherhood was challenging, but she is proud of Alexis’s accomplishments and resilience. She even praised Alexis as an exceptional cook, a skill she likely inherited from her mother’s influence.
A Shared New York City Investment
In May 2024, Alexis and Martha took a major step together by investing in a luxurious duplex in New York City’s Upper West Side neighborhood. The property, located in the historic Belnord building, represents not only a shared investment but also a testament to their enduring connection. Known for its grand architecture and as a filming location for Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building, the Belnord symbolizes both Alexis’s independence and the Stewart family’s close bond.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, Alexis Stewart balances her career and motherhood while maintaining a strong, albeit unique, relationship with her famous mother. Known for her humor and candidness, Alexis has often embraced her upbringing with a sense of humor, even if it wasn’t always perfect. As a media personality, mother, and daughter, Alexis continues to define herself beyond her last name, finding success in her own right.
Through their journey, both Alexis and Martha Stewart demonstrate the complexity of family relationships. Despite their differences, Alexis remains fiercely loyal to her mother, and together, they exemplify how family can be both challenging and profoundly supportive. Whether through shared investments or holiday gatherings, Alexis and Martha Stewart continue to stand by each other’s side, blending tradition with their modern family dynamics.