Jonathan Knight, renowned for his role in New Kids on the Block and as the host of HGTV’s Farmhouse Fixer, has openly shared his emotional five-year fertility journey with his husband, Harley Rodriguez. Despite their efforts, the couple faced significant challenges in their quest to start a family, a story that resonates with many navigating similar paths. This article delves into Knight’s fertility struggles, his marriage, age, net worth, height, weight, salary, and dating history, offering fresh insights and a comprehensive look at his personal and professional life.
Who Is Jonathan Knight? Biography, Age, and Career
Jonathan Knight, born on November 29, 1968, is currently 56 years old as of September 26, 2025. Rising to fame as a member of the iconic boy band New Kids on the Block (NKOTB), Knight transitioned into a successful career in real estate and television, hosting Farmhouse Fixer on HGTV. His work focuses on restoring historic New England farmhouses, blending his passion for preservation with modern design. Knight’s net worth is estimated at $13.3 million, derived from his music career, television ventures, and real estate investments. His salary as an HGTV host is reportedly around $400,000 annually, reflecting his multifaceted career.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jonathan Rashleigh Knight-Rodriguez |
| Age | 56 (born November 29, 1968) |
| Birthplace | Boston, Massachusetts, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 165 lbs (estimated, not publicly confirmed) |
| Occupation | Singer, Real Estate Developer, Television Host |
| Net Worth | $13.3 million (estimated) |
| Salary | $400,000 annually (estimated for HGTV hosting) |
| Spouse | Harley Rodriguez (married August 25, 2022) |
| Band | New Kids on the Block |
| Television Show | Farmhouse Fixer (HGTV) |
| Education | Not publicly disclosed |
| Parents | Canadian; father an Episcopal priest |
| Siblings | Jordan Knight (brother, also in NKOTB) |
| Social Media | Instagram: @jonathanrknight, Twitter: @JonathanRKnight |
Jonathan Knight’s Fertility Journey: A Five-Year Struggle
Knight and his husband, Harley Rodriguez, embarked on a five-year fertility journey to start a family, a process filled with emotional highs and lows. On the podcast Frosted Tips hosted by Lance Bass, Knight shared, “We tried it. We went through the journey for about five years, and it just didn’t happen for us.” The couple explored options like surrogacy and egg donation, common for same-sex couples. Knight described the rollercoaster of anticipation: “You’re so excited, and you’re so happy. And then, a week later, it’s like, ‘No, you’re back to square one.’” Despite their persistence, they faced repeated setbacks, unlike their friends Lance Bass and Michael Turchin, who welcomed twins in 2021.
This journey highlights the unique challenges LGBTQ+ couples face in family planning. According to a 2023 study by the Williams Institute, approximately 20% of same-sex couples in the U.S. pursue surrogacy or adoption, with success rates varying widely due to financial, legal, and emotional hurdles. Knight’s openness offers a poignant perspective, emphasizing resilience and the importance of community support.
Married Life with Harley Rodriguez: Love and Partnership
Jonathan Knight married Harley Rodriguez on August 25, 2022, in a private ceremony during the COVID-19 pandemic. The couple, together since 2008, met through a mutual friend when Rodriguez was a trainer at Barry’s Bootcamp in Boston. Knight proposed in 2016 during a trip to Africa, a moment he described as challenging due to traditional gender norms around proposals. In a 2023 Entertainment Tonight interview, Knight reflected, “We found each other later in life, which makes it even better. We understand each other.” Their marriage thrives despite Knight’s busy schedule, with separations strengthening their reunions.
Rodriguez, a former actor known for Sweet Valley High (1994–1997), now focuses on fitness, teaching at Barry’s Bootcamp. Their relationship, built on mutual respect, has endured public scrutiny and Knight’s demanding career, including NKOTB’s Las Vegas residency in 2025. Fans can follow their journey on Instagram: @jonathanrknight and @harley.rodriguez.
Height, Weight, and Public Persona
Standing at 5 feet 9 inches and weighing approximately 165 pounds (estimated), Knight maintains a fit physique, complementing his active lifestyle in music and home renovation. His approachable demeanor on Farmhouse Fixer and authentic social media presence have endeared him to fans. Unlike many celebrities, Knight balances fame with privacy, rarely sharing personal details beyond his professional achievements and marriage.
Dating History and Coming Out
Before meeting Rodriguez, Knight’s dating history was private, partly due to his reluctance to come out publicly. In 2009, an ex-boyfriend sold photos to The National Enquirer, forcing Knight to address his sexuality. He handled it with grace, stating on Instagram, “I’ve never been outed by anyone but myself.” This experience shaped his advocacy for authenticity, inspiring fans navigating similar journeys. His long-term relationship with Rodriguez remains the cornerstone of his personal life.
Unique Insights: The Emotional Toll and Community Support
Knight’s fertility story sheds light on the emotional toll of surrogacy for same-sex couples. A 2024 survey by the Family Equality Council found that 65% of LGBTQ+ couples pursuing surrogacy report significant emotional stress, often exacerbated by financial costs averaging $100,000–$150,000. Knight’s candidness about his struggles fosters empathy and awareness, encouraging open conversations about family planning in the LGBTQ+ community. His experience underscores the importance of support networks, as he learned from friends who successfully navigated similar paths.
Additionally, Knight’s dual career in music and television offers a unique angle. His ability to pivot from pop stardom to HGTV host demonstrates resilience, a trait mirrored in his personal life. Fans admire his authenticity, evident in posts like his March 2023 Instagram caption, “Missing my two loves tonight,” featuring Rodriguez and their dog.
Career Highlights and Net Worth
Knight’s net worth of $13.3 million reflects his diverse career. As a member of NKOTB, he contributed to albums like Hangin’ Tough (1988), which sold over 14 million copies worldwide. His HGTV show, Farmhouse Fixer, premiered in 2021 and, despite its cancellation in 2025, showcased his passion for historic preservation. Knight’s salary from HGTV, combined with NKOTB tours and real estate ventures, ensures financial stability. His work with designer Kristina Crestin on Farmhouse Fixer earned praise for blending historic charm with modern functionality, as seen in episodes like the Essex bathroom renovation.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Resilience
Jonathan Knight’s journey—from boy band heartthrob to HGTV star—reflects resilience in both his professional and personal life. His five-year fertility struggle with Harley Rodriguez highlights the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ couples, while their marriage exemplifies enduring love. At 56, with a net worth of $13.3 million, a height of 5 feet 9 inches, and a salary reflecting his success, Knight continues to inspire. Follow his journey on HGTV, Wikipedia, and Instagram for updates on his life and career.
