Nina Blackwood is a pioneering American television personality, radio host, actress, and former model best known as one of MTV’s original VJs (Video Jockeys) who helped shape the network’s groundbreaking early years.
With her striking looks, witty on-air presence, and deep passion for rock music, she became a cultural icon of the 1980s, later transitioning into a successful radio career while continuing to celebrate classic rock and pop culture.
Essential Data
- Full Name: Nina Blackwood
- Stage Name: Nina Blackwood
- Born: September 12, 1955
- Age: 70 years old
- Birthplace: Springfield, Massachusetts, United States
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Occupation: Television Personality, Radio Host, Actress, Former Model
- Height: 5’8” (173 cm)
- Religion: N/A
- Parents: Mr Blackwood and Mrs Blackwood
- Siblings: Unknown
- Spouse: Dennis
- Children: None
- Relationship: Single
- Net Worth: $4 million USD
Early Life And Education
Nina Blackwood was born on September 12, 1955, in Springfield, Massachusetts, United States. She was raised by her parents, Mr Blackwood and Mrs Blackwood, in a supportive family that moved to Los Angeles when she was young.
She developed an early love for music and performance, studying classical piano and later training as a model and actress. She attended local schools in California and began modelling while still a teenager, eventually landing acting roles and music-related gigs.
Career
Nina Blackwood started her career as a model and actress in the late 1970s, appearing in small film roles and television shows.
Her major breakthrough came in 1981 when she was selected as one of the original five VJs for the launch of MTV. Alongside Martha Quinn, Mark Goodman, Alan Hunter, and J.J. Jackson, she helped define the network’s rebellious, music-driven identity.
She hosted countless video premieres, interviews with rock legends, and live events during MTV’s golden era. After leaving MTV in 1986, she transitioned to radio, hosting the nationally syndicated Nina Blackwood’s Absolutely 80s and later New Wave Nation.
Nina has also continued acting in films and television, including roles in Vice Squad (1982) and guest spots on various shows. Known for her distinctive husky voice and rock knowledge, Nina remains an active voice in classic rock radio and pop culture commentary into 2026.
Awards and Nominations
- Recognised as one of the original MTV VJs, with multiple industry honours for pioneering music television
Social Media
- Instagram: @ninablackwood
Personal Life
Nina Blackwood, 70, is currently single and not engaged. She was previously married to Dennis. No widely documented long-term past relationships or public partners have existed in recent years.
She has no children and has chosen to focus on her career, her musical passion, and a relatively private personal life, while enjoying time with close friends and continuing her work in radio. Her height is 5’8” (173 cm).
Net Worth
Nina Blackwood’s net worth is estimated at $4 million USD. Her income primarily comes from her long career as an MTV VJ and radio host; syndication of her radio shows; residual earnings from television appearances; modelling and acting work; and brand collaborations tied to her iconic status in 1980s pop culture.
Filmography
- MTV VJ (1981–1986) – original Video Jockey
- Vice Squad (1982) – actress
- New Wave Nation and Absolutely 80s (radio host)
- Various guest television appearances and interviews