AJ Applegate, now embracing her birth name Danielle Gray, has carved a new path after a successful career in adult entertainment. Born on September 23, 1989, in Massapequa, New York, the 35-year-old former adult film star has transitioned into a fitness model and social media influencer, captivating millions with her journey of reinvention. With a net worth estimated between $900,000 and $2 million, Gray’s story is one of resilience, personal growth, and empowerment.
From Adult Films to Fitness Icon
Gray entered the adult industry in 2012 at age 22, initially under the pseudonym Kaylee Evans, before adopting the stage name AJ Applegate. Her career soared with accolades like the 2014 XRCO New Starlet Award and the 2015 AVN Award for Best Group Scene. She worked with major production companies such as Evil Angel and Jules Jordan Video, gaining a massive following. In 2016, she made her directorial debut with AJ’s Angels, showcasing her versatility.
In 2021, Gray retired from adult films to focus on family and personal endeavors. The birth of her son, Jaxon Lewis, in December 2019, marked a turning point. She shifted her focus to fitness modeling, sharing workout routines and healthy living tips on Instagram, where she boasts 2.6 million followers (@realajapplegate). Her transition reflects a desire to redefine her brand, emphasizing authenticity and a wholesome lifestyle.
Rebranding as Danielle Gray
In a bold move, Gray rebranded from AJ Applegate to her birth name, Danielle Gray, in 2024. This decision, detailed in a Vents Magazine article, was driven by her evolution as a person and professional. The rebrand wasn’t just a name change—it was a reflection of her values, passions, and aspirations. Gray’s new identity resonates with her audience as sophisticated yet relatable, allowing her to connect on a deeper level. Despite some skepticism, she remained steadfast, proving that authenticity is key to personal success.
Her Instagram presence highlights this shift, featuring vibrant posts about fitness, fashion, and family. Gray also runs a merchandise line, AJ’s Merch (@ajsmerch), which saw rapid success with items selling out within 48 hours of launch. Her OnlyFans (@ajapplegatevip) offers exclusive content, including behind-the-scenes glimpses and personal chats, with subscription options ranging from $3.30 monthly to $92.32 yearly. As of October 2023, her OnlyFans content has garnered over 54,100 likes, underscoring her enduring popularity.
Overcoming Personal Challenges
Gray’s journey hasn’t been without hardship. In March 2019, she faced profound loss when her long-time partner, adult film actor Bill Bailey, died in a tragic accident in Mexico City. The loss, covered by XBIZ and IBTimes SG, deeply affected her, but Gray channeled her grief into strength. She credits this experience with making her more resilient, pushing her to pursue her goals independently. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone through with the launch of AJ’s Merch, a testament to her ability to turn pain into purpose.
What’s Next for Danielle Gray?
As Danielle Gray, she continues to inspire through fitness and social media. Her work on OnlyFans and Instagram reflects a commitment to engaging with fans authentically. Gray also advocates for destigmatizing sex work, as discussed in a 2021 Dumb Blonde podcast episode, where she shared insights on her career shift and personal growth. Her focus on family, particularly her role as a mother, remains central to her life.
Looking ahead, Gray is poised to expand her influence in the fitness and influencer space. Her journey from adult entertainment to a multifaceted career as a model, entrepreneur, and mother resonates with fans worldwide. By embracing her true self, Danielle Gray is writing a new chapter—one of empowerment, authenticity, and unstoppable drive.
Stay updated with Danielle Gray’s latest ventures by following her on Instagram (@realajapplegate) and exploring her exclusive content on OnlyFans (@ajapplegatevip). Her story is a reminder that reinvention is possible at any stage, inspiring others to pursue their own paths with courage.