MJ Revealed: Who Is Kris Jenner's Mother? A Deep Dive

Beth Schmeler 20 May 2025

Ever wondered about the woman behind the powerhouse that is Kris Jenner? Meet Mary Jo Shannon, also known as M.J., a force in her own right, whose influence and strength have undeniably shaped the Kardashian-Jenner dynasty.

Mary Jo Shannon's story begins in Los Angeles, California, where she was born on July 26, 1934. A life rich with experiences, she embarked on matrimony with Robert True Houghton in 1955. This union blossomed into a family, bringing four children into the world: Kris, Karen, Kendall, and Robert Jr.

The tides of life shifted, leading to Mary Jo and Robert's divorce in 1962. Undeterred, she found love again with Harry Shannon, adding one more son, Burt, to her ever-growing family. However, this chapter also concluded with a divorce in 1976.

But Mary Jo is more than just a mother and a survivor; she's a formidable businesswoman and a dedicated philanthropist. As the founder and CEO of M.J. Shannon Enterprises, she's carved a niche in the skincare industry, developing and manufacturing products that reflect her commitment to quality and care.

She is also deeply committed to her philanthropic pursuits through the M.J. Shannon Foundation, giving grants to various organizations that passionately work towards supporting children and families.

Name	Mary Jo Shannon
Birth Date	July 26, 1934
Birth Place	Los Angeles, California
Occupation	Businesswoman, philanthropist
Spouse	Robert True Houghton (1955-1962), Harry Shannon (1962-1976)
Children	Kris Jenner, Karen Houghton, Kendall Houghton, Robert Houghton Jr., Burt Shannon
Reference Link	Mary Jo Shannon IMDB

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mary Jo Shannon stands as a figure of resilience and inspiration, particularly for her daughter, Kris Jenner.

Kris Jenner cherishes a bond of profound closeness with her mother. In countless interviews and personal reflections, Kris speaks of her mother as her closest confidante, constantly expressing gratitude for the unwavering support she's received. Mary Jo's presence has been a guiding force, an indispensable element in shaping Kris into the accomplished woman she is today.

Kris Jenner openly acknowledges the profound gratitude she holds for her mother's boundless affection and sage guidance, frequently reiterating the significance of their connection in her life.

More than just a matriarch, Mary Jo Shannon encapsulates several defining traits that make her truly exceptional.

The Architect of a Legacy: As the matriarch of the globally recognized Kardashian-Jenner clan, Mary Jo hasn't just watched from the sidelines. She's been an active participant, a guiding hand in shaping the destinies of those within her family.
A Titan of Industry: Mary Jo is the driving force behind M.J. Shannon Enterprises, a skincare empire built from the ground up. Her entrepreneurial spirit and keen business sense have not only led to financial success but have also inspired those around her.
A Heart of Gold: Beyond her business ventures, Mary Jo is a dedicated philanthropist. Through the M.J. Shannon Foundation, she channels resources to initiatives that bolster families and nurture the well-being of children, showcasing her commitment to a better world.
The Unwavering Anchor: For Kris Jenner and her other children, Mary Jo has been a steadfast source of strength and encouragement. Regardless of the challenges they've faced, she's remained their constant, providing a safe harbor and unwavering belief in their potential.
An Emblem of Resilience: Life hasn't always been easy for Mary Jo. She's weathered storms and overcome obstacles, emerging each time with renewed vigor and an unyielding spirit, proving her mettle as a survivor.
A Beacon of Inspiration: Mary Jo embodies the values of diligence, tenacity, and generosity. She is a living testament to the power of hard work, the importance of giving back, and the impact one can have on the lives of others.

These facets of Mary Jo Shannon's life provide a glimpse into her remarkable character and the significant influence she's wielded, particularly in the life of Kris Jenner and the trajectory of her celebrated family. She is, without a doubt, a woman of substance whose contributions have left an indelible mark on her family, her community, and the world at large.

As the bedrock of the Kardashian-Jenner lineage, Mary Jo Shannon's influence resonates deeply within her family, serving as a cornerstone for their achievements and solidarity. Her capacity to steer with conviction, to uplift with boundless affection, and to offer guidance rooted in wisdom has played an instrumental role in the remarkable success and happiness they have attained.

The imprint of Mary Jo's ethos is vividly mirrored in the principles embraced by members of the Kardashian-Jenner cohort. Their dedication to diligent labor, their unwavering devotion to familial bonds, and their eagerness to contribute positively to their community all bear witness to Mary Jo's enduring impact. These core values, ingrained in her offspring since their formative years, underscore the depth of her moral compass.

Throughout the trials and tribulations encountered by her children, Mary Jo has stood as a bastion of unwavering support. From navigating the complexities of divorce to weathering the storms of public scrutiny and personal battles, her presence has been a constant source of reassurance. Her unshakeable belief in their potential and her unconditional love have empowered them to surmount hurdles and emerge stronger, resilient, and more determined than ever before.

Within the intricate tapestry of the Kardashian-Jenner kinship, Mary Jo occupies a central position. Serving as the cohesive force that binds them together, she epitomizes strength and stability. Her pivotal role as the family's matriarch is undeniably one of the most pivotal determinants of their collective prosperity and contentment.

Mary Jo Shannon's entrepreneurial prowess has left an indelible impression on her daughter, Kris Jenner, instilling within her a profound appreciation for the dedication and fortitude required to cultivate a thriving enterprise. Witnessing firsthand the embodiment of diligence, commitment, and unwavering perseverance, Kris has been motivated to embark on her own ventures in the business realm, notably through her involvement in the globally recognized reality television series, "Keeping Up with the Kardashians," and her innovative fashion line, "Kardashian Kollection."

Furthermore, Mary Jo's astute business acumen has proven invaluable to Kris in her capacity as the manager of her children's diverse careers. Drawing upon her mother's wealth of knowledge and experience, Kris has adeptly navigated contract negotiations, effectively managed finances, and skillfully nurtured the family's burgeoning brand.

Kris Jenner frequently expresses profound admiration for her mother's tireless work ethic and her extraordinary ability to harmonize her professional pursuits with her familial obligations, highlighting the inspiration she derives from Mary Jo's balanced approach to life.

Overall, Mary Jo Shannon's triumph as a businesswoman has exerted a far-reaching and constructive influence on her daughter, Kris Jenner, impacting both her personal development and her professional trajectory.

Mary Jo Shannon's dedication to philanthropy has deeply resonated with her daughter, Kris Jenner, instilling in her a profound understanding of the significance of community engagement and inspiring her to emulate her mother's compassionate endeavors.

Throughout her life, Kris has actively participated in a multitude of charitable initiatives, demonstrating her commitment to social responsibility. She has generously contributed to organizations dedicated to assisting children and families in need, dedicating her time and resources to making a tangible difference in their lives. Moreover, Kris has leveraged her extensive platform to amplify awareness surrounding critical social issues, advocating for positive change and rallying support for meaningful causes.

Furthermore, Mary Jo's philanthropic values have permeated Kris's approach to parenting, nurturing a sense of social consciousness within her own children. Kris has instilled in them the importance of actively contributing to the welfare of their community, encouraging them to engage in charitable activities and fostering a spirit of empathy and generosity.

In summation, Mary Jo Shannon's philanthropic legacy has exerted a profound and constructive influence on her daughter, Kris Jenner, both on a personal and professional level. Kris has absorbed the invaluable lesson of giving back to society and has harnessed her platform to champion positive change and improve the lives of others.

Throughout her life, Mary Jo Shannon has served as a steadfast support system for her daughter, Kris Jenner, and her other children, providing unwavering love, guidance, and encouragement through every trial and triumph. Her presence has been a constant source of strength, offering solace during moments of adversity and celebrating their successes with boundless pride.

Mary Jo's support has been particularly pivotal for Kris, who has navigated a myriad of personal challenges throughout her life. Kris has openly discussed her struggles with infertility, the emotional toll of miscarriage, and the complexities of divorce, all of which have been compounded by intense public scrutiny and criticism. Through it all, Mary Jo has remained a steadfast presence, offering unwavering love, understanding, and the reassurance that Kris needed to persevere.

Moreover, Mary Jo's support has been instrumental in Kris's remarkable ascent in the realms of business and entertainment. As a successful entrepreneur and reality television personality, Kris has cultivated a multi-million dollar empire and risen to global prominence. Mary Jo has been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration, empowering Kris to pursue her dreams and providing invaluable guidance every step of the way.

Mary Jo's profound influence as a supportive mother has left an indelible mark on Kris's life, shaping her into the resilient, confident, and accomplished woman she is today. A loving and devoted mother herself, Kris embodies the values of compassion, strength, and determination, serving as a positive role model for women worldwide. The unwavering love and support she received from Mary Jo have been instrumental in shaping her character and guiding her journey toward success.

Throughout her life, Mary Jo Shannon has confronted and surmounted numerous challenges, showcasing her unwavering strength and independence. She has navigated the complexities of two divorces, diligently raised five children, and meticulously constructed a flourishing business from the ground up. Despite the hurdles she has encountered, she has steadfastly maintained her resilience, emerging as a symbol of empowerment and determination.

Navigating Divorce: Mary Jo has weathered the emotional and logistical complexities of two divorces, demonstrating her capacity to navigate difficult transitions with grace and resilience. Her ability to maintain her composure and prioritize the well-being of her children during these challenging times serves as a testament to her inner strength.
Raising a Large Family: Mary Jo embraced the responsibility of raising five children: Kris, Karen, Kendall, Robert, and Burt. Despite the demands and sacrifices inherent in raising a large family, she dedicated herself to nurturing and supporting each of her children, fostering an environment of love, encouragement, and unwavering support.
Building a Business Empire: Mary Jo's entrepreneurial spirit and astute business acumen led her to establish M.J. Shannon Enterprises, a thriving skincare company. Through tireless dedication and strategic vision, she transformed her business from a humble startup into a multi-million dollar enterprise, demonstrating her capacity for innovation, leadership, and financial success.

Mary Jo Shannon stands as an exemplary embodiment of strength, independence, and resilience. She has confronted and surmounted numerous obstacles throughout her life, emerging as a beacon of hope and inspiration for her children, her grandchildren, and women worldwide. Her unwavering determination and unwavering spirit serve as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, perseverance, and a belief in oneself.

Mary Jo Shannon embodies the essence of a role model, inspiring her children and grandchildren through her unwavering commitment to hard work, her steadfast perseverance in the face of adversity, and her profound dedication to giving back to her community.

Embracing Hard Work: Throughout her life, Mary Jo has exemplified the virtues of diligence and determination, consistently working tirelessly to provide for her family and achieve her goals. From establishing her own business, M.J. Shannon Enterprises, to nurturing her children and grandchildren, she has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence.
Persevering Through Challenges: Mary Jo has encountered numerous obstacles throughout her life, including navigating two divorces and raising five children as a single parent. Despite these challenges, she has remained steadfast in her resolve, persevering through adversity and demonstrating unwavering strength and resilience.
Giving Back Generously: Mary Jo is deeply committed to making a positive impact on her community, generously dedicating her time and resources to various charitable causes. As the founder of the M.J. Shannon Foundation, she has provided support to countless children and families, embodying the spirit of compassion and philanthropy.

Mary Jo Shannon serves as a shining example of a strong, independent, and compassionate woman, inspiring those around her to strive for excellence, persevere through challenges, and dedicate themselves to making a difference in the world. Her legacy of hard work, resilience, and generosity will continue to inspire generations to come.

Here are some common questions people ask about Mary Jo Shannon.

Question 1: Who is Kris Jenner's mother, exactly?

Kris Jenner's mother is, in fact, Mary Jo Shannon. Born in the sunny landscapes of Los Angeles, California, on July 26, 1934, she's the woman who set the stage for the empire that the Kardashian-Jenner family has built.

Question 2: Can you tell me a bit about Mary Jo Shannon's background?

Beyond being known as Kris Jenner's mother, Mary Jo Shannon is a self-made force to be reckoned with. She's celebrated as a savvy businesswoman and a dedicated philanthropist. As the brains and CEO behind M.J. Shannon Enterprises, she's created a skincare line that's making waves. On top of that, she passionately leads the M.J. Shannon Foundation, an organization committed to uplifting children and families in need.

Question 3: What's the dynamic between Mary Jo Shannon and Kris Jenner?

The bond between Mary Jo Shannon and her daughter, Kris Jenner, is something special. Mary Jo has been Kris's rock, providing unwavering support and guidance throughout her life's journey. Kris often speaks highly of her mother, acknowledging the immense pride she has in all her achievements.

Question 4: What will Mary Jo Shannon be remembered for? What's her legacy?

Mary Jo Shannon is a beacon of strength and independence, leaving an indelible mark on her family, her community, and the world at large. She's more than just a matriarch; she's a role model whose influence will be felt for generations to come. To those who know her story, she is, without a doubt, an inspiration.

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MJ Revealed: Who Is Kris Jenner's Mother? A Deep Dive

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