Anna Shay, Star of Netflix’s ‘Bling Empire,’ Dies at 62
Netflix star, Anna Shay of Bling Empire has died died after suffering a stroke. She was 62.
“It saddens our hearts to announce that Anna Shay, a loving mother, grandmother, charismatic star, and our brightest ray of sunshine, has passed away at the early age of 62 from a stroke,” her family said in a statement to media on June 5. “Anna taught us many life lessons on how not to take life too seriously and to enjoy the finer things. Her impact on our lives will be forever missed but never forgotten.”
In the vibrant world of "Bling Empire," one shining star stood out among the rest—Anna Shay. Born and raised in Japan, Anna's unique heritage stemmed from her American businessman father, Edward Shay, and her mother, Ai Oizumi Shay, who boasted a captivating mix of Japanese and Russian ancestry. Edward Shay's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the esteemed defense contractor Pacific Architects and Engineers.
Tragedy struck in 1995 when Anna's beloved father passed away. As a result, her brother Allen stepped into the role of CEO at Pacific Architects. The siblings made a remarkable move in 2006, selling the company to none other than Lockheed Martin, a decision that would secure their place as heirs to the family's considerable fortune.
Anna's life took an intriguing turn in 2021 when she ventured into the glimmering realm of reality television. Joining the cast of Netflix's widely acclaimed series, "Bling Empire," Anna shared the screen with an ensemble of charismatic personalities, including Kane Lim, Gabriel and Christine Chiu, Kim Lee, Jaime Xie, and a host of other influential Asian American socialites from the bustling city of Los Angeles.
Anna Shay's journey from the corridors of power to the glamour of the small screen is a testament to her indomitable spirit and magnetic presence. Her story continues to captivate audiences around the world, leaving an indelible mark on both the realms of business and entertainment.
“Shay says she thought about starring on ‘Bling Empire’ as doing something for herself, after spending years looking after her son, in the wake of her parents’ deaths,” Town & Country wrote of her in a 2021 profile.
Shay is survived by her son Kenny Kemp.
