When it comes to the world’s highest earners, celebrities often dominate the rankings. After all, an actress or an actor can earn a few million dollars just from starring in one film! Sounds like a dream job for most people, right? Well, we cannot deny the fact that they certainly have it easy—but without proper knowledge about money management, they can easily lose all of that as well.
The ones on this list did not simply make it big because of their huge talent fees, they were also savvy investors, who knew how to make their money work for them in more ways than one.
Vanna White – $70 Million
While watching movies and a couple of series is the go-to form of entertainment for many of us, there’s no denying that there’s also some charm to be found in-game shows. With that said, one such title that continues to garner a high degree of recognition since it started would undoubtedly be Wheel of Fortune. Of course, a portion of the show’s fame is thanks to its hosts, one of which is Vanna White.
Before making her way into the entertainment industry, White got her first exposure as a contestant for a beauty pageant. She got her debut on-screen gig playing in an episode of The Price Is Right. After a couple more stints, including some for movies and shows, White finally landed a spot as the hostess for Wheel of Fortune. Since then, besides her work on the widely-known program, she has also dabbled in real estate. Thanks to her hosting position, she also holds a Guinness World Record title for the most frequent clapper.
Richard Gere – $120 Million
One can’t ignore that Richard Gere is one of Hollywood’s charismatic stars. For most of his years in school, he was quite an athletic student and was especially skilled in gymnastics. The most impressive of all, though, was his fascination for music and, of course, acting. He eventually started performing on stage productions, such as Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, before finally landing his first film credit.
Gere’s career on the screen began around the 1970s, with one of his earlier roles being a minor, yet memorable, part in 1977’s Looking for Mr. Goodbar. Since then, he has landed more and more significant roles, including for films such as Days of Heaven, The Cotton Club, Pretty Woman, An Officer and a Gentleman, and most recently, Norman: The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer. Behind the scenes, though, the actor also showcased his musical chops and played the piano theme for Pretty Woman and a guitar solo for Runaway Bride.
Barbara Walters – $170 Million
At a young age, Barbara Walters was already quite used to being close to celebrities. This was thanks to her father, who pursued a career in show business. After finishing her college studies with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Walters wasted no time looking for a job. After some time working for an advertising agency, she landed a position for a TV station, writing press releases and producing a kid’s show.
A few years later, though, Walters slowly transitioned into the world of journalism, beginning as a writer for The Morning Show. While most of her earlier years in the business often had her behind the scenes, Walters eventually found her way in front of the camera for The Today Show. Other programs she has hosted since then include The View, ABC Evening News, and 20/20. After at least six decades, Walters finally announced her retirement in 2015.
Betty White – $75 Million
At first, Betty White really wanted to be a forest ranger. However, due to circumstances preventing her from pursuing that kind of work, she found a fascination for writing, which ultimately led to her passion for acting. Before even knowing a thing or two about things like student loans, White got her earliest gig at eight years old: it was for Empire Builders, a radio program. Nine years later, she found her way into on-screen projects.
The actress has achieved many firsts in Hollywood. To this day, the actress has garnered praise for being one of the first women to possess creative control both in front and behind the camera. With that said, her fame rose to even greater heights thanks to her work in titles like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Hot in Cleveland, and The Golden Girls. She also recently voice-acted for Toy Story 4: it was for a tiger named Bitey White.
Ann-Margret – $20 Million
Among many things, Ann-Margret is a fast learner. With that in mind, it’s no surprise she picked up dancing quite early. Well, without her knowing, that was the first investment she made for her eventual career. With that said, Ann-Margret eventually had the chance to showcase her dancing skills for a couple of shows and events. After some time, though, she tried her hand at singing and acting.
While she undoubtedly had made quite a name for herself as a singer, Ann-Margret is perhaps most known for her work in movies and shows. Beginning her acting career in the 1960s, her movie debut was for Pocketful of Miracles. Since then, her fame rose to greater heights with roles in State Fair, The Villain, Bye Bye Birdie, and The Train Robbers. The actress is still quite active in the business, with her most recent gig being for a 2021 movie entitled Queen Bees.
Gary Coleman – $75,000
In the entertainment industry, one can start their career at any time. With that in mind, it’s no wonder the spotlight has introduced us to more than a few child stars over the years. Well, one such figure who has garnered some recognition would be Gary Coleman.
Coleman got his first on-screen gig when he was around six years old. That year, he appeared in a commercial and an episode of Medical Center. By the time he was nine, the child actor had landed a role for a pilot of The Little Rascals. While the project didn’t push through, Coleman’s performance garnered some interest, which led him to land the role of Arnold Jackson in Diff’rent Strokes. Since then, he worked on other titles and earned some fortune. With that said, some of Coleman’s investment money was spent on his passion for building and maintaining miniature railroads. At least one of the late star’s train tracks is preserved in Colorado Springs.
R.Kelly – -$2 Million
Like many of his colleagues, R Kelly began his journey into music at a young age. Starting with a brief stint as a member of a band called MGM, short for Musically Gifted Men, he released his debut solo album Born into the ‘90s. Needless to say, it was widely praised by just about everyone, which helped the aspiring singer start a career under the spotlight.
Since then, the singer has received plenty of credit for bringing the R&B and Soul genre into the mainstream, even earning him titles such as the Pied Piper of R&B. With that said, some hit songs he has made through the years include Trapped in the Closet, Gotham City, and The World’s Greatest. Even so, most of us probably know Kelly best for singing I Believe I Can Fly, which was part of the Space Jam soundtrack.
Monica Lewinsky – $1.5 Million
Even during her years in school, Monica Lewinsky already knew how to keep herself busy. While taking her college studies, she worked at a tie shop and also spent time helping one high school’s art department. After a while, thanks to some family connections, she landed an internship job at the White House.
After more than a few years working at the White House, Lewinsky spent some time away from the spotlight. For a while, she made quite an investment out of her hobby of knitting. She had sold hand-knitted bags for most of that period. Through the years, Lewinsky has become the focus of numerous interviews, books, and other programs. In more recent years, she has finally focused most of her work on becoming an advocate for matters such as social welfare and, of course, cyberbullying. Besides that, she also recently helped produce the third season of American Crime Story.
RIHANNA – $550 MILLION
Robyn Rihanna Fenty was born in Saint Michael, Barbados on February 20, 1988, who has a net worth of $550 million. Rihanna was discovered by Evan Roger and was invited to the U.S. to do the demo tapes. In 2005, she signed a contract with rapper Sean Carter, aka Jay Z, known as the CEO of Def Jam Records, and officially started her career. So far, Rihanna’s global record sales have exceeded 300 million, making it one of the artists with the most record sales.
Aside from having multiple chart-topping songs and albums, Rihanna also has investments in various businesses. This includes her make-up and lingerie line—both of which are immensely successful and considered by many as game-changes in the industry. Just take Fenty Beauty for example—raking in $72 million in media value just 2 years ago. No wonder she’s taking it easy; there’s no real rush when she’s basically made for life.
PHYLICIA RASHAD – $55 MILLION
Phylicia Rashad was born in Houston, Texas on 19 June 1948. She is known as an actress, singer, and stage director, who has a net worth of $55 million. Phylicia’s mother Vivian Elizabeth Ayers is an artist, poet, scholar, and publisher who was nominated by Pulitzer prize; her father Andrew Arthur Allen is an orthodontist and dentist.
Phylicia Rashad came to prominence when she joined the NBC sitcom The Cosby Show from 1984 to 1992. She famously played the role of Clair Huxtable for eight years. Her talent never went unnoticed after she earned Emmy Award nominations in two consecutive years – 1985 and 1986. With her contributions to the industry, she was dubbed as “The Mother of the Black of Community” at the 2010 NACCP Image Awards. She, too, was the first Black actress who won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play, credits to her role in the revived A Raisin in the Sun.
FLOYD MAYWEATHER – $450 MILLION
Floyd Mayweather was in Grand Rapids, Michigan on February 24, 1977. People also call him Pretty Boy, Money, TBE(The Best Ever) as nicknames. Surely, Floyd Mayweather does not need an introduction. He is a known professional boxer, although he already resigned. He is now a boxing promoter, earning quite big from each boxing game he promotes.
As a boxer, Floyd might have the best insurance policy to think he is also worth $450 million. He managed to retire with an undefeated record, a smart move from someone who always wanted to up his game. Floyd ranked 5 as the highest-paid athlete of all time and is also a member of athletes who earned over $1 billion. Not only earned from fights, Floyd earned a lot from endorsement deals like many other athletes, however, endorsement deals cannot become the vast majority of his income.
TOM CRUISE – $570 MILLION
Thomas Cruise Mapother IV, better known as Tom Cruise, was born in Syracuse, New York on July 3, 1962. He is a famous American actor and producer with a net worth of $570 million as of 2020. As one of Hollywood’s top actors, Tom certainly looks and lives the part. Whilst luxury isn’t exactly his thing, the actor has a taste for extreme sports—often costing him a pretty penny and at the risk of his own life.
Well, he’d know a thing or two about longevity! Despite the influx of young actors, he remains one of the most bankable and highest paid in the industry. These days, he’s still busy filming—often taking on action roles, which suit his personality well. We hope he has an excellent insurance policy, however. Tom is well-known for performing his own stunts, after all.
HARRISON FORD – $300 MILLION
When you mention Harrison Ford’s name, there are usually two things that come to mind: Star Wars and Indiana Jones. That’s pretty understandable, considering those two roles shot Harrison into the international limelight. By now, Harrison is probably very used to all the attention he gets both from the fans and the media. However, he didn’t pursue acting to become famous. Instead, he did it to overcome his shyness when he was younger.
In fact, prior to his iconic role in the Star Wars franchise, Harrison worked as a carpenter to support his family and keep the electricity running in his house. It was fate that brought Harrison to the steps of George Lucas’ and Francis Ford Coppola’s doors. After that, it can’t be denied that his success was written in the stars. It’s no wonder that he is now valued at $300 million.
JAMES CAMERON – $700 MILLION
James Cameron was born in Kapuskasing, Ontario, Canada on August 16, 1954. He is a Canadian film director, producer, editor, and environmentalist, who has a net worth of $700 million. He is one of the most talented film directors of his generation and that reflects, not just in the quality of his work, but also in the money his films rake in through ticket sales all over the world.
James, as you may know, is the man behind 2 of the biggest film successes in recent years: Titanic and Avatar. Both received critical acclaim and also helped boost the director’s net worth even further. He also gets credit for writing and producing films such as Alita: Battle Angel and Terminator 6. That’s on top of him being a film editor as well! It is not an exaggeration to say that, in the United States alone, James’ film revenue exceeds $1.9 billion, let alone worldwide, which goes up to $6.3 million.
Paul McCartney – $1.2 Billion
Sir James Paul McCartney was born in Liverpool, England on 18 June 1942. He is an English singer, songwriter, musician, and film producer. Most people know him as co-lead vocalist and bassist for the Beatles. Actually, Paul McCartney needs no introduction. His name alone speaks volumes of what he has achieved. He is one of the most highly successful musicians in the world. Hence, it is no surprise that he has $1.2 billion of net worth.
He is most famous for being a member of the legendary band, The Beatles, making him one of the most famous composers in pop music history, not to mention one of the wealthiest, too. In his music tours, he already earned $50-70 million alone. In royalties and licensing fees from his various publishing copyrights through his publishing company MPL communications, he relatively earned millions, too.
George Lucas – $6.5 Billion
George Lucas was born in Modesto, California on May 14, 1944. He is one of the most famous directors in the world. Star Wars will never be what it is today without him. In fact, there will never be Star Wars without George. Aside from the epic space-opera movie franchise, he is also the one behind the success of the Indiana Jones movie series. He is the founder of Lucas’s film. With these things under his belt, he managed to amass a net worth of $6.5billion, which makes him the wealthiest celebrity and director in the entertainment industry.
His credits for creating Star Wars are beyond measure. With only an $11 million budget on hand, he made a global phenomenon when it hit the theaters in 1977. And the rest is what they say, history. By 2012, the film had earned around $20 billion in merchandise sales and the revenue through home entertainment sales were $4 million.
JAY-Z – $ 1 BILLION
Shawn Corey Carter, well known as Jay-Z, is an American rapper, songwriter, record executive, producer, and businessman, who was born in New York City on December 4, 1969. When it comes to hip-hop, Jay-Z is one of its legends. The rapper and producer have legions of fans, capable of selling out stadiums the world over. Couple that influence with Beyoncé’s and what you have is a true power couple in the industry. Performing with her on tour is reported to have earned them $253.5 million in ticket sales!
This year is the first time for Jay-Z to move into the billionaire list on his own. Their money is evident in their tastes as well. Jay-Z has a fleet of luxury cars amounting to $15 million. From his humble roots to some smart money management, Jay-Z proves that with hard work and skill—anyone can make a good life happen.
KANYE WEST – $3.2 BILLION
Kanye Omari West was born in Atlanta, Georgia on June 8, 1977. Music producer, rapper, fashion designer, and entrepreneur Kanye West hit it big at a whopping $3.2 billion net worth. This artist did not put to waste his fame and opportunities, and just as many have thought he could be the next showbiz disappointment, he turned things around with his latest albums and newfound faith.
Today, he is one of the most successful musicians in the world, having 21 Grammy awards of 69 nominations. Furthermore, his Yezzy cooperation with Adidas reached a win-win and gave him a considerable fortune. His success and recognition in his career made him one of the most celebrated artists in the industry. However, it was his spot-on investments and partnerships that also helped him grow his net worth. This man has the gift that he shares through his music to inspire others.
WILL SMITH – $350 MILLION
Willard Carroll Smith Jr. was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on September 25, 1968, who has a net worth of $350 million. Smith is not only an actor and producer but also a rapper. From his early beginnings on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, it was clear that Will Smith had major star quality. Not only is the actor a comedic genius, but he’s also got the versatility that allows him to play a variety of different roles.
Before hitting it big, however, did you know that Will was dealing with bankruptcy when he was only 20 years old? Thanks to his iconic role as the Fresh Prince, he was able to bounce back and establish himself in the industry. The 2000s is the golden time of his career, Will Smith earned $20 to $30 million for each film. Reported, he was paid $20 million for the Netflix movie and $35 million for its sequel.
SAMUEL L. JACKSON – $250 MILLION
Samuel Leroy Jackson was born in Washington, D.C. on December 21, 1948. He is an American actor and producer whose net worth is $250 million. It’s safe to say that Samuel L. Jackson is an industry icon. Not only is he recognized as one of its most bankable, but he is also one of the most familiar faces to audiences worldwide. After all, he has appeared in numerous blockbusters over the years including films such as Patriot Games, Pulp Fiction, Jurassic Park, Star Wars, and even in The Avengers.
There is no doubt that Samuel is one of the highest-grossing actors of all time, and the global box office of his films (excluding guest appearances) exceeds $16.7 billion. Reported, Samuel’s salary for a leading role in the production is around $10 to $20 million. Due to a savvy negotiation, he earns $4 to $6 million every single time Nick Fury (Marvel movie) appears, not matter it is a cameo scene or leading role.
TOM SELLECK – $45 MILLION
Thomas William Selleck was born in Detroit, Michigan on January 29, 1945. He is an American actor and film producer, who is at an impressive net worth of $45 million today. Tom is an avid outdoors-man and interested in various sports, such as shooting, hockey, and more. It’s not just a hobby for he’s very sincere about what he is doing. Moreover, he became a member of the NFA(National Rifle Association).
Actor and producer Tom Selleck is one of Hollywood’s most recognizable personalities. He is mostly known for his credit roles in the 80s, especially for portraying private investigator Thomas Magnum in the TV series, Magnum, PI. that aired from 1980 to 1988. Since his role in the series, Selleck has appeared in more than 50 films and TV roles. His most recent TV series role is in the 2010 series, Blue Bloods, where he earns $200,000 per episode, which easily lands him at $4 million per season.
WENDY WILLIAMS – $40 MILLION
Wendy Joan Williams was born in Asbury Park, New Jersey on July 18, 1964, who has a net worth of $40 million. Wendy Williams has a lot to her name. She is a television host, businesswoman, media personality, and author. But before she became to prominence as a host, she used to be a DJ, known as a “shock jockette” in New York. She received credits for her on-air debates with different celebrities, which even inspired the 2006 VH1 reality series, The Wendy Williams Experience.
In 2009, she was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame. Aside from being a DJ and host, she is also a known author, writing New York Times best-selling books and autobiography. Reportedly, Wendy’s salary for The Wendy Williams Show is $10 million per year, in other words, if she films 180 episodes in a year, each episode pay is around $55,000.
TOM BRADY – $200 MILLION
Another footballer on the list is Thomas Edward Patrick Brady Jr., who was born in San Mateo, California on August 3, 1977. Tom Brandy is an American football quarterback of Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with a $200 million net worth in 2020. $200 million is already a lot of money, however, this is a separate net worth from his wife, Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen, who has a net worth of $400 million on her own, which means, this couple is worth nearly $600 million if combined.
Brady has an annual salary of $30 million. During his time with the Patriots from 2000 to 2019, he earned $230 million in salary alone. Brady also got $100 million from endorsements. In March of this year, Tom Brandy announced to moved from the New England Patriots to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While this period, he rented Derek Jeter’s seaside mansion, costing $70,000 monthly as reported.
LEBRON JAMES – $500 MILLION
Lebron Raymore James Sr. was born in Akron, Ohio on December 30, 1984. He is a professional basketball player, a position as a small forward/ power forward, and also an entrepreneur. Considered by many to be one of the greatest players in the NBA, every fan of the sport knows and recognizes his name. James’ skill and popularity have helped the baller build up a fortune amounting to $500 million. Since he’s still actively playing for The Los Angeles Lakers, his net worth is expected to grow further.
Lebron James’ salary from the NBA is around $40 million per year and about $55 million income is from the endorsements. Added together, the annual salary of this sports star is up to $100 or so. Money aside, he’s pretty much your average guy. A married man who cares plenty for his wife and kids. Lebron James probably invested in a top-notch home security system to help keep them safe while he’s away during games.
SYLVESTER STALLONE – $400 MILLION
Sylvester Enzio Stallone, born Michael Sylvester Gardenzio Stallone, was born on July 6, 1946. He is a famous actor, director, screenwriter, and producer. He may play reckless and trigger-happy characters in some of his films, but Sylvester isn’t one to handle his investments in the same way. His combined earnings from all the movies he has done, along with other businesses he is a part of, total a whopping $400 million.
That’s more than enough to support his retirement—he won’t need to work another day in his life. But as the old adage goes, you can’t keep a good man down. His personal luxuries include cars such as a Porsche Panamera, an Aston Martin DBS, and a Bentley Continental GTC, to name a few. He owns an opulent mansion at the top of Beverly Hills.
PAT SAJAK –$70 MILLION
Patrick Leonard Sajdak, better known as Pat Sajak, was born and raised in Chicago. His grandparents were all Polish. He is a former newsman, disc jockey, television personality, actor, and game show host. Game show host Pat Sajak of Wheel of Fortune is a legend. He is the longest-running host of any game show and what’s even more impressive is that he actually surpassed the record of Bob Barker, the host of Price is Right.
Patrick Sajak has hosted Wheel of Fortune for more than 30 years now and recently, it was announced that his contract is extended until 2022. Did you know he earns $15 million per year in salary? No wonder he has a net worth of $70 million! He’s probably good at keeping his investment money since we didn’t hear from him any news of financial problems.
CLINT EASTWOOD – $375 MILLION
Clint Eastwood, born on May 31, 1931, in San Francisco, California, is an American actor, film director, musician, and producer. He starred in the Western TV series Rawhide, which lasted for eight seasons. Then he found fame in Man with No Name with his role. Since his start in the industry back in the ‘60s, Clint Eastwood has become a Hollywood fixture—a living icon who has managed to captivate audiences’ minds and hearts. Aside from being a diverse actor, he is also quite the creative genius.
Clint has been at the helm of some of the business’s most successful productions, making him an award-winning actor and director. His $375-million net worth doesn’t just go into personal investments, however. Aside from producing blockbuster movies such as Sully, he is a supporter of various causes. The actor is known for being charitable—a rare trait among the ultra-rich, it sometimes seems.
TIGER WOODS – $800 MILLION
Eldrick Tont “Tiger” Woods, known as an American professional golfer, was born on December 30, 1975, in Cypress, California to Earl and Kultida “Tida” Woods. Tiger Woods started learning golf before he turned two years old and shot a 48 over nine holes when he was three years old. Now he has won 18 World Golf Championships. When it comes to golf, many would argue that Tiger Woods still reigns supreme—despite his brush with controversy not too long ago.
Some credit goes to his excellent PR team, who helped make him a celebrity even after receiving much criticism when it came to his personal life. Of course, we cannot deny his talent as well. He has won almost every tournament he’s been in; cashing in at $43.3 million in 2017 alone! Not bad for someone who has been at it for years and still going strong. As of this writing, his net worth is closer to $900 million.
ELTON JOHN – $500 MILLION
Elton John, born on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England, is an English singer, pianist, songwriter, and composer. Elton John was educated at Pinner Wood Junior School, Pinner County Grammar School, and Reddiford School. But when he was 17, he abandoned his academics to pursue a career in music. Sir Elton John is an icon for many different reasons. Till now, he has received 5 Grammy Awards, 5 Brit Awards.
Aside from creating memorable chart-toppers, he is also often given credit for his trend-setting fashion. His bold sense of style has become his signature throughout the decades, influencing a generation of younger artists in the process. With so much success to his name, it’s no wonder that his net worth amounts to half a billion dollars! Aside from music, he also dabbles in other creative pursuits. The story of his life was immortalized in the film Rocketman—allowing his fans and non-fans alike a glimpse into his colorful life.
John Joseph Nicholson- $400 M
John Joseph Nicholson, better known as Jack Nicholson, is an American actor and filmmaker. He was born on April 22, 1937, in Neptune, New Jersey. He was raised by his grandparents and he thought they were his parents until 1974 when he was informed of his family secret by researches from Time Magazine. Jack Nicholson is a record-holder for being one of the most nominated actors for awards, and also for being one of the richest. Almost half of his $400 million net worth can be traced from his acting income.
During the ’90s and early 2000s, Nicholson’s base salary runs at an estimated $10-15 million per film appearance. The actor has appeared in more than 60 films and has been nominated for 12 Academy Awards. Other significant money-making investments on his part include a $100 million portfolio in real estate and $150 million for his art collection, which features works by Picasso, Rodin, Botero, Matisse, Bouguereau, Modigliani, and Magritte.
SHAQUILLE O’NEAL – $400 MILLION
Shaquille O’ Neal was born on March 6, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey. He is one of the tallest and heaviest players ever, at 7 ft 1 in (2.16 m) tall and 325 pounds (147 kg). When it comes to basketball legends, no one beats the classics. Shaquille, even at his age, is still a mighty force to reckon with. His career is marked by plenty of victories and a whole lot of money. With Orlando Magic, he earned $121 million over the course of 7 years and then received an $88.5-million contract extension.
Shaq finished his NBA career on June 3, 2011, at his home in Orlando. Now he has earned a name for himself as a successful businessman. His current net worth is well-deserved; not just because he’s a skilled baller, but also because is one of the most generous athletes out there. Shaq’s got a heart that’s as big as his credit score, for sure.
PHIL MCGRAW – $460 MILLION
Famous American TV personality Phil McGraw or popularly known as Dr. Phil is one of America’s favorite TV hosts. He was born in Vinita, Oklahoma on September 1, 1950. He first appeared in The Oprah Winfrey Show, where he eventually became a regular creditable personality and was given a segment in the show. With the help of Oprah, he was able to officially launch his own TV program, Dr. Phil, in 2002. The show is focused mostly on giving advice to the general public.
Dr. Phill is one of the highest-paid personalities on television. He earned $88 million a year at his peak. As of 2019, Dr. Phill’s annual income is nearly $88 million. In 2003, Dr. Phil successfully organized and launched the Dr. Phil Foundation aiming to fund assistance to disadvantaged American families and children. Now, he has a whopping net worth of $460 million to his name.
DRE -$820 MILLION
Dr. Dre is an American rapper, record producer, audio engineer, and entrepreneur. He was born on February 18, 1965, in Compton, California. As one of the most successful entertainers of the last three decades, Dr. Dre has earned himself hundreds of millions from his music career but more from his entrepreneurial pursuits. Being an artist in the music industry has its perks and hold on crowds, but this guy didn’t just hold on to that.
He has shown extraordinary entrepreneurial moves in making bold ones and took on risks. Thankfully, most investments returned positive and profitable. Interesting facts about him too is how he not only invests in businesses but also in other artists. Did you know that he launched the careers of Eminem and 50 Cents? Well, that is why this man sits at a handsome net worth of $820 million, which makes him the 3rd richest rapper in the world.
Cher – $360 Million
Cher, byname of Cherilyn Sarkisian, was born on May 20, 1946, in El Centro, California. For decades now, Cher has become an iconic household name known for her personal fashion sense and long-standing singing career. But more than that, the singer is also an actress and a television personality. She has earned a total net worth of $360 million, which we can credit to her non-stop hustle. This is unsurprising, seeing as she has sold over 100 million records in her lifetime, and is therefore considered one of the world’s best-selling musical artists.
She owns a number of notable real estate properties, especially within the Los Angeles area. This includes the Beverly Hills mansion she formerly shared with Sonny Bono, which was put on the market for $90 million in 2016. Cher still pursues her acting and singing on the stage and has a long list of achievements during her career. There’s no doubt that Cher is a living legend in the world.
SNOOP DOGG – $150 MILLION
Snoop Dogg, previously Snoop Doggy Dogg, is an American rapper and media personality, born on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California. Snoop Dogg successfully made a name in the music world. Credits to Dr. Dre, he helped him rise to prominence and is now considered one of the wealthiest and most successful rappers from the 1990s’ music scene. Snoop Dogg has also participated in several films and television episodes throughout his career.
Outside of music, Snoop Dogg founded his own production company, called Snoopadelic Films, in 2005, and made some investments in the burgeoning cannabis business. He is now worth $150 million, and it will undoubtedly continue to grow as he still makes new music today. In total, he has made 14 albums and counting. Many of which are platinum and debuted at the No. 1 spot. He has also collaborated with the very best in the music scene. Snoop also has numerous endorsements, from Boost Mobile to Orbitz Gum.
RON HOWARD – $200 MILLION
Ron Howard was born on March 1, 1954, in Duncan, Oklahoma, U.S. He is the elder son of Jean Speegle Howard and Rance Howard. Howard married Cheryl Alley in 1975. They have four children, the oldest of whom, Bryce Dallas Howard, follows her father’s footsteps. Academy award-winning actor and now screenwriter, producer, and filmmaker Ron Howard jump-started his career in Hollywood as a child star in the 60s longtime running sitcom The Andy Griffith Show.
Up until the 70s, he was credited as Ronny Howard in all his TV and film roles. He rose to prominence from the 60s and once again made waves in a coming-of-age film, American Graffiti, which became a critical and commercial success. Then again, starred in another long-time running hit sitcom Happy Days. However, he left the show to focus on film-making, which he later aced and received widespread acclaim in the movies, A Beautiful Mind, Frost/Nixon, and Apollo 13.
NELSON PELTZ – $1.79 BILLION
Nelson Peltz is an American businessman and finance mogul who made his fortune through strategic investments starting in the 1980s. Currently, Nelson is the non-executive chairman of some of America’s biggest brands, including Wendy’s, The Madison Square Garden Company, HJ Heinz Company, and Procter & Gamble. With that much success attached to Nelson’s name, you would think that he had his eye set on becoming a billionaire from the very beginning.
However, Nelson is a member of the “billionaire dropout” club, having dropped out of Wharton to become a ski instructor. After being given control of their family’s frozen food business, Nelson and his brother gradually grew the company and expanded their empire to what it is today. Presently, the American mogul is worth an impressive $1.79 billion, but that amount will surely add up in the upcoming years since he is still grinding his way to the top.
SALMA HAYEK – $200 MILLION
Salma Hayek is a Mexican and American actress, born on September 2, 1966. As of this writing, her net worth is $200 million dollars. The actress might be married to a billionaire, but this self-made woman already had quite the net worth before even doing so. She has starred in various movies, transitioning from small roles to lead roles through the years. You might remember her best from her roles in From Dusk till Dawn, Wild Wild West, and Desperado.
Also, She is known for her role in the telenovela “Teresa”, and the critically acclaimed film “Frida” (2002), for which she received multiple award nominations. With so much money between them, one might think that this couple is all about luxury and various indulgences, but this isn’t quite the case. In fact, her husband, Henri Pinault donated $100 million towards the Notre Dame reconstruction—barely making a dent in their credit, we assume.
BRADLEY COOPER – $100 MILLION
Who can forget The Hangover Trilogy? Bradley Cooper’s role in the films as Phil certainly was a standout—no wonder many consider it the big break his career needed. Can you believe he was ready to quit the business before landing the role? These days, we’re sure retirement doesn’t even cross his mind; he is one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood, after all. His net worth of $100 million speaks for itself.
And with the success of his latest film A Star is Born, he’s going to need a reliable financial advisor to help with all the money he’s raking in. Cooper is a handsome and reverently funny actor. His looks and charm made him one of the most bankable artists in Hollywood. Whether he stars in romantic comedies or action-packed thrillers, Bradley Cooper can pull off any type of role.
TRAVIS BARKER – $50 MILLION
Blink-182’s drummer may have stayed mostly in the shadow of his other bandmates, but he definitely didn’t fall behind when it comes to investment planning. The band has been around for more than a few decades, and in that time, he has built his net worth up to $50 million. Needless to say, all his hard work wasn’t for naught. Travis invests in property, which is a good thing since he has had some recent health issues, making him unable to go on tour as much as before.
Hailed by Rolling Stone as “punk’s first superstar drummer”, he proved himself to be a versatile drummer by making guest appearances on several music projects of different genres. As a young boy, Barker was interested in becoming a professional surfer. However, he told the media that no matter how many other interests he may develop, he would always go back to his drums as he felt the most connected to them.
BEYONCE KNOWLES – $500 MILLION
Aside from being a performer of the highest caliber, Queen B is also a self-made woman. Coming from humble beginnings certainly taught Beyonce the value of hard work and money management. No wonder she makes sure that every business she enters doesn’t just reflect her as a person but is also lucrative. With a market reach such as hers, success is almost always guaranteed.
Now that she has her own family to care for, you can bet that she isn’t holding back when it comes to giving them the best lives possible. Beyonce’s engaging vocals, videos, and live shows are as thrilling as her personality. Whether she does it on her own or with the help of her talented family, Beyonce proves that she can climb the pinnacle of success, as evident in her awards and accolades, not to mention her estimated net worth of $500 million.
LIONEL RICHIE – $200 MILLION
Being one of music’s legends comes with a lot of perks, one of which is the investment money they earn. Whilst his career isn’t as active as it used to be, there’s no denying the fact that Lionel Richie has made a good life for himself. He certainly seems to be a business-savvy individual, because aside from music, he also has a few businesses which help keep the income rolling in. With good money comes the good life and the singer is certainly not afraid to enjoy his money.
His Beverly Hills mansion is proof of how much he has made throughout the decades. After his work with the Commodores, Richie led a successful solo career that spawned 10 studio albums. In 2016, he was awarded the Johnny Mercer Award by the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Even with a net worth of $200 million, Lionel Richie is serious about investing his fortune and growing his career.
JAMIE OLIVER – $300 MILLION
Jamie Oliver comes from the first wave of celebrity chefs who took over our screens through various cooking shows. Born in Essex, Jamie Oliver grew up cooking with his parents in the kitchen of their restaurant, which came in handy when he started to work in the food industry. It was in 1999 when we were first introduced to his quirky personality and often unusual, but healthy, dishes.
Today, he is worth millions and maintains a massive following through his cookbooks, television shows, and even his own YouTube channel. Jamie certainly has a lot going for him. Of course, it helps that he is smart with his finances and has investments in both real estate and restaurants. He may not have a monopoly in the field, but Jamie is definitely a top player among them. Known for his exquisite and approachable cuisine and bestselling books, Jamie Oliver will definitely continue to go places.
PADMA LAKSHMI – $40 MILLION
She may be living in luxury and comfort these days, but not many know that Padma had quite a difficult childhood. Luckily, she found success through modeling—eventually going into hosting, writing, and even acting. Padma keeps her investments growing by venturing into business as well. If you’re looking for a bit of motivation, this is one inspiring woman to look up to. To date, she has her own line of accessories, a tableware collection, and even a line of spices for cooking.
She’s already a one-woman empire, but we’re sure Padma’s got plenty more ideas up her sleeve. Another keen artist in the entertainment industry, Padma Lakshmi has built a valuable career for herself. Whatever she involves herself in, may it be in modeling, film, television, hosting, or even writing, Padma excels at what she does. Undoubtedly, Padma Lakshmi in her 50’s will still climb the ladder of success on her own terms.
PIERCE BROSNAN – $200 MILLION
The actor and producer first gained prominence through the Bond films GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, and The World Is Not Enough, and Die Another Day. True to his former Bond character, Pierce is seen as a worldly debonair—with a taste for all things elegant and lavish. However, whilst some of this is certainly true, Pierce is less hedonistic about the way he spends his money.
In fact, he is a well-known activist and is beloved for his charitable work. He donates profits from his art prints to various charities benefitting various causes such as the environment, children, and women’s health. In 2007, the actor and his wife were praised for donating over $100k to replace a playground in Kauai, where they also own a home. Pierce Brosnan may have had a difficult childhood, but he makes all of these personal loans out of the goodness of his heart. The James Bond of the industry is also a James Bond in real life.
DEMI MOORE – $200 MILLION
Demi Moore may have shied away from the limelight in recent years, but that doesn’t mean that the actress is not living a comfortable A-list life. Demi’s career peaked in the ’90s with films like Ghost, which struck gold at the box office. Following her success in the movie, Demi earned a string of successful projects inside and outside the film industry. It even landed her a couple of prestigious awards and nominations.
Through the course of her career, Demi surely made several profitable investments that helped build the foundation of her fortune today. Presently, Demi’s career is valued at $200 million. Not bad for someone who has since maintained a low-profile in the Hollywood industry. She was the highest-paid actress of her time. Despite that, she did not stop doing projects and making appearances. This made her the most sought-after actress. Nowadays, Demi Moore continues to act from time to time.
MILA KUNIS – $75 MILLION
The actress may have faked her age auditioning for That 70’s Show, but there’s nothing disingenuous about the success she has managed to reach since. These days, Mila is living comfortably, all thanks to her $75 million net worth. Not bad for someone who started out at 12 years old! Her roles as Jackie Burkhart on the popular show led to numerous opportunities on both film and TV—it is also how she met her now-husband, Ashton Kutcher.
The two were previously co-stars on the show, but only years after did they end up together. With their shared assets, this couple need not worry about bankruptcy. She has worked with Hollywood legends and veterans in some of her films, such as Liam Neeson, Denzel Washington, and others. Ms. Kunis’ career started with a role in a Barbie commercial and transitioned into a successful TV and film career.
AL ROKER – $70 MILLION
He’s been gracing our TV screens every morning as the comedic weatherman for The Today Show. The mere sound of his laugh often accompanies breakfast for many of the show’s avid viewers. Now at 65 years old and with a net worth of $70 million, we can safely say that he has definitely established quite the career. However, simply being a weatherman is not enough for Al. Did you know that he is also an author?
He has published a number of titles under his name such as The Midnight Show Murders. Al even gets Broadway credit for appearing in the Waitress as Joe. It is not really easy to be a weather forecaster, journalist, television personality, actor, and author all rolled in one. In spite of the fact that he has undergone several surgeries, he is still very active in his career. His latest appearance is in the sitcom The Blacklist.
CELINE DION – $800 MILLION
As one of the most iconic divas in music, Celine Dion’s following is in the millions. Loyal fans always support her every endeavor. This comes as no surprise, of course, given the way her emotional songs and lyrics are able to touch hearts the world over. Celine Dion is worthy of veneration for her beauty and talent. She sits comfortably in her seat in the Hall of Fame. With the amount of success she has had throughout her career, we hope the songstress has ample health insurance should it be needed one day.
Her $800 million net worth speaks for itself, especially since she continues to perform at sold-out arenas. Celine Dion is a living legend who continues to inspire people all over the world. Her global and cultural impact is hardly erased from the memory of men and will remain that way for many years to come.
JAY LENO – $450 MILLION
Who can forget the sound of Jay Leno’s laugh? His time as a talk show and comedian has made him a legend for many. The Tonight Show with Jay Leno is a brand unto itself, so many were saddened when he finally decided to step down. We need not worry about Jay’s finances, however, for he is doing well for himself.
His car collection, for one, is among the most impressive. It has even been featured in a number of shows, with Jay proudly showing off his prized vehicles. Needless to say, this guy must have one excellent home security system. Jay Leno may have quit but he left hilarious and memorable punchlines in the lives of the people who value and adore him. Since it was known that he doesn’t smoke or drink or gamble, he surely will spend most of his time in his car collection and work on his private garage.
NORMAN LLOYD – $5 MILLION
Not many people reach the age of 105 and even fewer are the centenarians who are still as active as Norman Lloyd. From working with Alfred Hitchcock to starring in some of the most recent blockbusters, the actor is still going strong despite his advanced age. His marriage with Peggy Craven is one many aspire to—they stayed together until her death in 2011. Norman has also tried his hand at producing and directing TV shows, adding to his investment money.
With $5 million to his name, should he choose to retire soon, he’ll be able to do so in utmost comfort. Should Norman Lloyd decide to go back to the movie industry, it wouldn’t be difficult because he has invested in it through his display of hard work and devotion to his job. His tandem with Hitchcock has done wonders for his career. Lloyd has been with him and worked for him as associate director. Now that he is regarded as a legend, he spends his time with his family and his lifelong hobby, tennis.
JESSICA SIMPSON – $200 MILLION
Jessica Simpson is one of the most popular celebrities in the early 2000s, which helped boost her net worth significantly. Her work as a vocalist and reality show star contribute to her $200 million net worth. Thanks to her business savvy, she was able to further expand her assets through her clothing line, which was launched back in 2006. Her namesake brand brings in $1 billion in revenue annually! She also recently launched a workout gear clothing line called Warm-Up.
These days, she focuses on her business ventures while taking care of her growing family on top of it all. Without a doubt, she’s a true boss lady who knows what to prioritize and where to put in her investments, time- and money-wise. She is one of the women who knows what she wants. Jessica Simpson is an icon of style and glamour who has found success in multiple careers.
JENNIFER LOPEZ – $400 MILLION
When it comes to talent, Ms. Lopez is blessed with many. Aside from being a talented singer and dancer, she is also an established actress and a successful businesswoman. Of course, nothing tops the fact that she’s also a mother to two lovable children. Her humble beginnings probably taught Jennifer the value of proper money management. She’s also always actively working—maintaining her relevance and ensuring that she has a steady income stream.
Jennifer might be living a life of luxury, but she also never forgets to give back. The singer is known for her philanthropic work with Amnesty International and MusiCares. J.Lo is regarded as the most influential Latin entertainer in the United States when she accumulated a film gross of about $3.1 billion. This and more did not let her forget who she is and where she came from. This most down-to-earth individual never misses giving to charities when it is most needed.
EDDIE MURPHY – $200 MILLION
Eddie Murphy is one of the funniest men in the Hollywood comedy scene, and I’m pretty sure all of us have seen a film by him at some point in our lives. He started gaining attention in the late ’80s and would go on to star in multiple high-grossing films. To date, Eddie holds the distinction of being one of Hollywood’s most bankable actors, earning an estimated $20 million per movie. His films have also earned a combined value of $6.7 billion at the worldwide box office.
This surely puts Eddie high up on the list of most successful comedians/actors in Hollywood. With the help of some very talented financial advisors, Eddie was able to grow his fortune and net worth to a whopping $200 million. Aside from being one of the Greatest Stand-ups of All Time, Eddie Murphy also gives back to charities that support cancer, education, and creative arts.
ROB GRONKOWSKI – $45 MILLION
He may have retired early, but this does not that mean Rob will need personal loans anytime soon. Before calling it quits, he was one of the highest-ranked tight-end in football’s top 100 players—a spot he held for six consecutive years. Retiring only means starting something new for the former athlete. He hasn’t even touched his NFL income, and virtually lives off of the money from his endorsements.
Rob is probably great at budgeting his money—a rare trait amongst young athletes who tend to live fast and spend a lot. Gronkowski also set up the Gronk Nation Youth Foundation, which provides grants to sports programs with an emphasis on health, community, and fitness. He has also been involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Patriots Foundation. He and his partner donated to hospitals and fire departments some logistics needed for the pandemic. The new generation can learn a thing or two from him.
HALLE BERRY – $90 MILLION
Halle Berry was one of the highest-paid actresses in the early 2000s and is best known for her roles in X-men films and Swordfish. Halle Berry was a model and a beauty queen before she became an actress, a true testament to her beauty. Of course, her $90 million net worth reflects her success as well! She continues to appear in films, but do you know how she continues to earn and not fall into bankruptcy?
Endorsements. She signed a lucrative deal with Revlon that pays her $10 million annually. As she is in X-Men, Halle Berry is working up a storm when it comes to managing her career. She also works as a producer and recently made her directorial debut. It’s evident that not a single muscle in the intelligent and stunning Halle Berry plans to stop doing more projects.
MARK CUBAN – $4.5 BILLION
The only billionaire on our list thus far! Mark Cuban is currently one of the wealthiest people in America, but he isn’t as inaccessible as some might assume. The businessman is familiar to audiences for having appeared in the TV show Shark Tank as one of the potential investors that contestants have to win over. He has always appeared intimidating, but outside of business? He is a doting husband to his wife, Tiffany Stewart, and their three children.
He is also a well-known philanthropist who has donated over $5 million to Indiana University back in 2015. To Cuban, $5 million is an amount he can easily afford without damaging his credit. Cuban was not born with a silver spoon on his mouth but he has a vision that led him to become what he is now. His humble beginnings taught him that one can profit from anything, thus he ventures in several investments and ownerships.
JIMMY BUFFETT – $600 MILLION
They may share the same last name, but Warren and Jimmy are not at all related. That said, they do have something in common: an incredible net worth. The successful musician came from humble beginnings and became well known for his music that often gives a sense of escapism—a very laid back, island lifestyle. Along with the Coral Reefer Band, he has recorded a number of hit songs, including “Come Monday” and “Margaritaville”.
Aside from being a talented musician, he is also great at investment planning. Jimmy owns restaurant chains named after his songs and is also a best-selling writer. While he juggles being a singer-songwriter, musician, actor, and author, he manages to be an accomplished businessman, with multiple business ventures under his belt. A large bulk of his net worth is due to his music career. Nowadays, Jimmy Buffett continued his music career with a series of appearances and tours.
TERRY BRADSHAW – $45 MILLION
He retired decades ago, but Terry remains one of the most iconic NFL athletes. Before retiring, he played a total of 14 seasons as quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers and surprised fans of the sport when he decided to call it quits early on. He wasn’t left bankrupt after doing so, however. Terry found a career as a presenter and even as an actor! Later on, he signed with CBS as a game analyst and guest commentator.
His eyes are always on the prize, proven by his keen sense for business. In 2008, he became the first footballer to receive a star on the Walk of Fame. It was known that during the early part of his career with the Steelers, Bradshaw was a used car salesman during the off-season. He even sold peanut butter just to supplement his income. But as his career progressed until he retired from football, he found a new interest in broadcasting and television work.
BRECKIN MEYER – $8 MILLION
The American actor, writer, producer, and drummer is most familiar to audiences for his roles in Clueless, Rat Race, Road Trip, and Garfield: The Movie. He may not be the most recognizable actor out there, but Breckin has certainly made a name for himself in the industry. Aside from acting, he has also lent his voice to films such as Robot Chicken. Given his talent, it’s no wonder that he has managed to purchase prime real estate—including his luxurious residence in L.A.’s Valley Village.
He’s probably also got a knack for investment planning—purchasing and selling homes that further contribute to his net worth. The vast variation of his capabilities made Breckin Meyer want to have more. He has several ongoing and pending projects. When all of these will appear on the screen and collect their proper dues, Breckin Meyer’s net worth will surely rise.
JANET JACKSON – $190 MILLION
Here’s one of our favorite Jacksons, the actress-singer Janet. Originally one of the members of the variety show The Jacksons in the late 70s, Janet was able to build a platform of her own. She built her career as a pop icon and was pretty successful in it as she sold over 100 million records. “That’s The Way Love Goes”, “Together Again”, and “All for You” are just some of her famous hits.
She also boasts of a $190 million net worth, with part of her wealth coming from her work as an actress. Needless to say, she’s miles away from bankruptcy! The versatile Janet Jackson managed herself in making a fortune through the tireless efforts she put into her work. She did not once use her being a Jackson to build her success. Her net worth only represents a fraction of the hard work she has put in.
MICHAEL STRAHAN – $65 MILLION
Michael Strahan might have amassed his $65 million net worth through his time in the NFL. For 14 seasons, the football sensation used to be the defensive end for the New York Giants. After retiring, he became a football analyst on Fox NFL Sunday and a co-host of Good Morning America. Aside from that, he was also the host of Backyard Stadiums on DIY Network, where he worked with a team of contractors and gardeners to layout sports courses and goals in backyards.
Aside from his works, he credits his endorsement deals as contributing to his net worth, bringing in about $17 million per year. During Strahan’s time in the NFL, he earned about $60 million from his salary alone. His highest-earning mark was $20.6 million from the 2002 to 2003 season. Nephew to the professional football player, Arthur Strahan, Michael Strahan has won many accolades in football.
ADAM SANDLER – $420 MILLION
Adam Sandler is one of the most well-loved comedians in Hollywood. He is not only an actor but a producer, too. Sandler rose to prominence as a cast member on Saturday Night Live before going on to become a film actor. Thanks to his exceptional talent in acting and comedy, not to mention a bunch of hit movies, he became one of the highest-paid entertainers in the world.
Therefore, it is not a surprise to know that he’s worth $420 million. Sandler can easily earn $50 to $60 million a year, making him one of the wealthiest actors. Through his acting and producing prowess, he can effortlessly demand a higher paycheck, getting credit for being one of the most bankable stars today. Some of Sandler’s movies specifically his roles have been widely praised. He is indeed making a name for himself. His confidence in his work is insurmountable and his love for his work precedes him.
MEL GIBSON – $425 MILLION
Mel Gibson is an American-Australian actor best known for his action roles in films like 1979’s Mad Max. Mel was born in New York and later moved to Sydney, Australia, with his parents when he was only 12 years old. Mel began acting shortly after finishing his college education. He first did a couple of small roles on stage before landing his big break for the film Mad Max. Awards and recognition followed Mel after his breakout performance, paving the way for even more projects.
Apart from acting, Mel also has directorial and production credits listed under his name, including his massively successful films Braveheart, Passion of the Christ, Apocalypto, and, more recently, Hacksaw Ridge, which featured British actor Andrew Garfield. Today, Mel’s combined net worth as an actor, producer, and director is valued at around $425 million. That is a massive amount of money that you cannot find anywhere!
JALEEL WHITE – $10 MILLION
Jaleel White first joined the entertainment world as Steve Urkel in the comedy series Family Matters in 1989. He became a regular cast member after being an instant hit to the audience from a one-time guest appearance. He had been in the series for nine seasons, jumping from ABC to CBS. After over 20 years, Jaleel reprised his role as Steven Urkel in Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?
With his time in the business, he managed to amass $10 million. This might have helped him earn his film and television degree in 2001 from UCLA. With excellent education and talent, Jaleel is genuinely up to great things, and all of us are still hoping to see more from him on the big screen. When he does, we know that he will be given an enormous role to portray since he has the talent and comedic timing to be a Hollywood superstar.
ABBY AND BRITTANY HENSEL – $700,000
Their lives may be deemed unusual by many, but the conjoined twins Abby and Brittany Hensel are making the most of their situation while boosting their personal investments at the same time. With the constant interest in them, these two ladies have published books and appeared on TV shows in order to share their stories. There have been no doubts that tons of people are inspired by and interested in following their stories.
These days, the twins live a low-profile life and work as teachers, having earned their degrees from Bethel University. Abby and Brittany are living proof that challenges can be overcome with perseverance, positivity, and a bit of ingenuity. With their combined net worth of $700,000, they have the means to not only live comfortable lives but also help other people and share the good fortune they have received.
DANA WHITE – $500 MILLION
Currently the President of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Dana White is often given credit for helping turn the UFC into what it is now—a multi-billion organization and one of the most illustrious mixed martial arts corporations across the globe. Aside from being a sports promoter and businessman, Dana has made generous personal loans to The Good Fight Foundation and sports facility renovations at his old high school.
In one of the interviews, he shared that he was diagnosed with Meniere’s disease, resulting from an injury he sustained while fighting in his youth. The 50-year-old is regularly receiving treatment for it and probably has health insurance to help with the costs. The best thing that UFC fans around the world can do is hope that he will get better soon and continue managing the UFC so that it would get better as the years go by.
JEFF BEZOS – $190 BILLION
In recent decades, Americans have seen a new generation of one-percenters rise the social ladder. These are the modern world innovators who built their empire on the foundation of the digital market. And at the forefront of this new generation of one-percenters is billionaire Jeff Bezos. Jeff is the mind behind the giant e-commerce platform Amazon. The company initially started as an online bookstore.
Since it launched in 1994, Amazon has evolved into a multinational technology company that lists various other services such as digital streaming, cloud computing, AI, e-commerce, and many more. Amazon has expanded its reach from its native North America to multiple countries across the globe, putting it among the “Big Four” multi-billion companies, joining the likes of Google, Facebook, and Apple. These things make Jeff a multi-billionaire at $190 billion in net worth. He indeed has some very talented financial advisors on his team, don’t you think?
TOM HANKS – $400 MILLION
Award-winning actor, producer, screenwriter, and director Tom Hanks is one of the most beloved and highest-paid actors in Hollywood. He is one of the most consistent box-office hitmakers, bringing in a total of $9.7 billion in gross earnings for all his movies. At present, he has a net worth of $400 million from his work in films and wise investments. Other than the movies he’s worked on as an actor.
There’s room for him to put his directing skills to the test, as he has had the opportunity to work with and learn from critically acclaimed director Steven Spielberg. There is no doubt that there’ll be more film opportunities that will come his way in the near future, and indeed, just like every time, he’ll hit it big again. Given his upcoming projects, his gross earnings will definitely double by the time he retires.
STEVEN SPIELBERG – $3.7 BILLION
Steven Spielberg’s whopping net worth of $3.7 billion should not surprise any of us to any degree. Since he began his career in the New Hollywood era, he has quickly become one of the most renowned directors and producers in film history. He is known for his science fiction and adventure blockbusters, like the iconic Jurassic Park franchise, Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, and many more.
Spielberg’s filmography spans over four decades, and in that time, he has become the second richest celebrity globally. He can effortlessly make $150 million a year, which means he will never experience bankruptcy in his life. In fact, did you know Spielberg actually opts for a low salary when making his own films? Well, that is because he chooses to have backend points on the gross revenue, which gives him a better profit when the film becomes a huge hit.
KELLY RIPA – $120 MILLION
Before she was a host, Kelly Ripa was known for being an actress. She made her TV debut in 1986 on Dancin’ on Air that led her to be a part of Dance Party USA. However, it was when she did All My Children that she rose to prominence. Her next project was a leading role on the sitcom Hope & Faith. In 2001, Ripa was announced as the new co-host of Live! with Regis and Kelly. With her incredible talent and charm, she quickly won over viewers and earned the show huge ratings.
Aside from these jobs, Ripa also has other work credits. She has partnered with household brands such as 7 Up, Tide, and Pantene. With these feats, she is now worth $120 million. But Kelly Ripa doesn’t plan to stop there. She welcomes more projects and lucrative investments. Once called one of the Most Powerful People in Media by the Hollywood Reporter, Ms. Ripa continues to climb the ladder of success.
DAVID COPPERFIELD – $1 BILLION
David Copperfield is America’s most popular illusionist and by far the world’s richest magician. He earns an annual income of $40-$60 million for his career as an illusionist. Known for performing 515 shows annually, he not only retains his yearly earnings but also continues to accumulate massive wealth. Aside from his primary profession, he also owns a list of prime investment properties and businesses.
In fact, it is reported that despite the shutdown due to the coronavirus, he did not lay off any staff and continued to pay them. Also included in his assets is the world’s largest and most prized collection of magical artifacts. His honorable consideration of people, as shown in the dealings with his staff, is indeed remarkable. David Copperfield’s success is no magic trick; he worked for it and kept a positive attitude in dealing with life and its accomplishments.
GIGI HADID – $29 MILLION
American model and reality TV star Gigi Hadid is making heads turn as one of the top paid models in the country. Every year, she makes about $9 – $10 million through her contracts with some of the most prestigious and leading brands today like Maybelline, BMW, Versace, Tommy Hilfiger, and Evian. It’s impressive that she has amassed a net worth of $29 million at her young age. With her growing fan base and social media pull, it’s not hard to see how paid partnerships and endorsements with the young model is a good investment for any company.
Her innate skill and talent are coupled with determination, grace, and confidence. Gigi Hadid not only proved that she can reach a $29 million net worth, but she is also a living example that success can be achieved through hard work. She is definitely an inspiration to many young women everywhere.
SERENA WILLIAMS – $200 MILLION
Let’s give credit where it’s due: Serena Williams is arguably the top female tennis player in the world and considered to be the face of the sport for aspiring players around the globe. The athlete won her first Grand Slam singles title in the U.S. Open back in 1999, and her victories continue pouring in. Did you know she even had to beat her older sister, Venus, along the path to success? There’s certainly no bad blood between them!
We’re sure Venus is proud of her sister’s achievements, including being the only woman on Forbes’ 100 Highest Paid Athletes for 2017. With her playing styles, which is amplified immediate control of rallies with her strict and consistent service, the return of serve, and forceful groundstrokes in both forehand and backhand, we’re just waiting for Serena Williams to receive the highest honors in tennis and be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
HOWARD STERN – $650 MILLION
As one of today’s most influential hosts, Howard Stern is the self-proclaimed “King of All Media”. He certainly has a jaw-dropping net worth to back up that title with over half a billion in earnings throughout his radio and TV career. Best known for his namesake radio show, he has millions of listeners tuning in to his namesake show, thanks to his entertaining personality that helped him gain many listeners. Stern started his first radio show in 1985 while studying at Boston University.
With decades of experience under his belt and a loyal fan base, you can bet he isn’t going away anytime soon. Besides, Howard also dabbles in other fields— expanding his reach and keeping out of bankruptcy at the same time. From publishing books to even doing photography, the host certainly knows where to invest his talents. He also produced many late-night shows, and home videos to sustain his popularity and reach more fans.
JERRY SEINFELD – $950 MILLION
Jerry Seinfeld, primarily known for his TV sitcom Seinfeld, is probably one of, if not, the most successful comedians in Tinseltown. With a net worth of $950 million, Seinfeld is among the wealthiest TV stars in Hollywood. So how did Jerry get to this much financial success? Was it proper investment planning? Does he simply have a fat paycheck? Well, it’s a combination of both plus royalty fees.
Apparently, apart from his hefty salary, Jerry made millions upon millions by charging companies like Netflix a handsome price to acquire rights to his show. This makes Seinfeld one of the shows with the most franchise and syndication royalty charges. He also acquired a 7.5% share in his own show that allows him to earn more on top of his salary. He also has a TV show with Netflix called Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, and he doesn’t show any signs of stopping anytime soon.
ROGER FEDERER – $450 MILLION
Recognize the name? Even if you aren’t a fan of the sport, you’re likely to have heard of the athlete before. Roger Federer is ranked number 5 in the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP). Aside from being one of the best players in its history, the number of endorsements he has had over the years have made him a familiar face all over the world and the first highest-paid athlete. To his credit, Roger has won over 20 Grand Slam singles titles—a record for male players in the sport.
Sadly, Federer barely played this 2020 season in tennis because of his undergoing knee-surgery. Is he planning on retiring soon? With $450 million, you’d think he might want to take things easy, but he is still actively playing and representing his country in tournaments. After he recovers from surgery, Federer is planning to make his return in the 2021 Australian Open.
J.K. ROWLING – $1 BILLION
J.K. Rowling made an entire generation fall in love with the magical world and characters in her best-selling Harry Potter series, but did you know that before getting it published, J.K. Rowling had very little to her name? Her story proves that trusting in one’s talents and never giving up can pay off in the end. For Jo, her pay-off was in the billions after her books spawned eight film adaptations and countless merchandise.
She was now named the first billionaire author, but she denied it because she is extremely private when it comes to finances. However, given just how much of her fortune she gives away to charity, the author didn’t keep her billionaire status for very long. Even without it, she no longer has to worry about having to get loans in order to keep her family afloat. Jo started from poverty but her knowledge and her creativity brought her to wealth.
WARREN BUFFETT – $84.5 BILLION
When it comes to investments, Warren Buffett is considered an icon to many. As the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, he is one of the most prominent business tycoons in the world, with an estimated net worth amounting to over $73.4 billion. This staggering net worth makes him one of the wealthiest people in the world. Buffett’s interest in business started young and he eventually entered Columbia Business School. He became successful by applying simple marketing principles and finding good investment opportunities.
However, the business magnate isn’t just an expert investor; he is also a beloved philanthropist. Alongside Bill and Melinda Gates, he founded The Giving Pledge campaign back in 2010. This movement encourages billionaires to donate most of their fortunes to various charities and advocacies. Buffett has pledged to donate 99% of his fortune to charitable causes. His interest in charitable deeds makes him an inspiring public figure.
BILL COSBY – $400 MILLION
Bill Cosby was born William Henry Cosby Jr. on July 12, 1937, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has three brothers, and his mother was a maid and his father a mess steward in the U.S Navy. Bill Cosby is an American comedian, television star, and producer. He began his career in the entertainment industry during the 1960s. As of this writing, Bill Cosby’s net worth is $400 million.
The famous stand-up comedian and actor from the late 60s Bill Cosby rose to prominence through his credit role in the sitcom I Spy. It finally led to his own longtime running show, The Bill Cosby Show. With all his other streams of income as producer and creator put together, it is safe to say that he was at that time earning at least $4 million per episode, which is equivalent to $8 million per episode today. This man used to have it all.
BILLY DEE WILLIAMS – $9 MILLION
Although Billy Dee Williams is famous for portraying Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise, he is also a voice actor and artist. He first made it to the iconic Lucas film series in the 1980s, but his slow-building career affected him and made it hard for him in the beginning. After almost four decades, he again returned to the franchise to reprise his role in the last installment of the third trilogy movie, The Rise of Skywalker, in 2019.
He got the credit for making the “longest intervals between on-screen-screencaps” of a role played by the same actor in U.S. film history. Today, he is one of the most respected actors in the industry for his contributions not just in the industry but also in the art world. 100% of his net worth comes from his distinguished career.
MADONNA – $850 MILLION
What does it feel like to live in the material world? “Material Girl” singer Madonna, also known as the “Queen of Pop”, might know the answer. She is considered one of the most influential figures in popular culture because of her reinvention and adaptability. This is further solidified by her net worth, which is estimated at roughly $850 million. Her skills and talent also brought the music video’s full potential and had a significant impact on the music industry.
It may sound easy, but Madonna came from humble beginnings. She began as a backup dancer before working her way up to where she is now. To give even more credit where it’s due, she has been building an empire in Hollywood and the business world. She founded an entertainment company called Maverick, created four fashion brands, and contributes to several charities. Now that’s a celebrity to look up to.
O.J. SIMPSON – $3 MILLION
Orenthal James Simpson was born in San Francisco, California on July 9, 1947. He is a former football running back, broadcaster, actor, and advertising spokesman. O.J. Simpson is known in the world of football as the “Juice.” He is an icon in his own right, being a former football running back. He went to USC, but aside from getting a college degree, he also played football for the USC Trojans. Professionally, he played for the NFL for 11 seasons, joining the teams of Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers.
In 1992, OJ was considered to have a net worth of $10.8 million (which is the same as $18 million nowadays) from the files he submitted for his divorce. Among them, about half of his net worth came from the value of the estate in Brentwood, which he bought in 1977, costing $650,00 at that time.
BILL GATES – $130 BILLION
Bill Gates is not just a billionaire. He gets credit for his significant contribution to the Microsoft revolution of the ‘70s and ‘80s. The 65-year-old computer genius is the co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, which is the reason for his great fortune. Famously known as a business magnate, he is also a software developer, investor, author, and philanthropist.
In his decades in the business, Bill has diversified his wealth. He owns every lavish thing that you can think of, whether mansions or jets. Bill has shares in hotels, garbage haulers, farmlands, and even holds of a rare Leonardo da Vinci notebook. Is it surprising that he has a $130 billion net worth? No, of course, and he knows how to put it into good use. Aside from investing, Bill also focuses on his philanthropic works. He perfectly knows how to give back to people, donating a total of over $36 million to his and his ex-wife’s, Melinda Gates, foundation.
PARKER SCHNABEL – $80 MILLION
Parker Schnabel made a name for himself as a reality TV star on the hit Discovery Channel series, Gold Rush. At the tender age of 16, the TV personality took over the family gold mine at Big Nugget. He didn’t mind stepping on the gas and operating hefty types of machinery just to learn the trade. As they say, hard work always pays off, and Parker is now worth a whopping $80 million at 26 years old.
He showed the other miners, who are twice his age, that he could make it, and he did it with flying colors. To grow his knowledge more about the business, Parker used his college fund to build his own mining operation and successfully mined 1,029 oz of gold. Isn’t that impressive? The young entrepreneur continuously wows the audience and his family on what he can do, and he is about to show more in his own spinoff series, Gold Rush: Parker’s Trail continues.
MARK MCGRATH – $6 MILLION
You may famously know Mark McGrath as the famed ‘90s and 2000s rock band, Sugar Ray, lead singer, but there is more to this 53-year-old star than singing. If you don’t know, he is also a TV host seen on the TV shows Extra, Killer Karaoke, and Don’t Forget the Lyrics. He also tried his luck in joining several reality TV shows, like Celebrity Big Brother, in which he won third place.
These things have amassed the hitmaker $6 million net worth. He has been in the business for about 35 years, and the degree of his popularity still resonates until today. Who will ever forget the hit songs Every Morning, When It’s Over, Someday, and many more? Mark is the only one who could give justice to these songs. Did you know People magazine even named him the sexiest rocker of 1998? That’s who Mark is.
ALEX TREBEK– $75 MILLION
Alex Trebek was an American game show host born in Canada and had a net worth of $75 million. He was most known for his 37-year run as the host of the syndicated game show Jeopardy! In addition, Trebek has appeared in several television shows, most of which he portrayed himself. The beloved host won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host seven times.
During his long tenure as host of the show, Trebek set the Guinness World Record for most gameshow episodes aired by the same host in 2014, when he surpassed Bob Barker’s credit record of 6,829 episodes with Jeopardy! For his efforts on the shows, To Tell the Truth, Classic Concentration, and Jeopardy! In 1991, he created broadcast history by becoming the first person to host three American game shows at the same time. Trebek was paid $18 million per year on Jeopardy! He shot five episodes every day on the show, which was taped 46 days a year. To put it another way, he made about $391,000 per taping day or $78,000 per episode.
REGIS PHILBIN – $150 MILLION
Regis Francis Xavier Philbin was a television host, talk show host, game show host, actor, and vocalist from the United States. He is best known for co-hosting the nationally syndicated chat show Live! from New York City. Beginning in 1988, Regis and Kathie Lee hosted Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee. In 2001, Regis and Kelly hosted the show, later renamed Live! after Philbin’s departure in 2011.
When Philbin became the primetime host of the hit game program Who Wants to Be a Millionaire in 1999, he expanded his audience. The game show was an instant hit, and Philbin became a 24-hour celebrity for many years. He’s also credited for making the phrase “Is that your final answer?” widespread. He was once dubbed “show business’s hardest worker,” and he held the Guinness World Record for the most hours spent watching television in the United States. Regis Philbin’s net worth was estimated to be $150 million.
SCOTTIE PIPPEN – $20 MILLION
Scottie Pippen has a net worth of $20 million and is a retired American professional basketball player. Scottie played in the NBA for 17 years and made $109 million in salary alone throughout that time. In addition, endorsements and investments brought him tens of millions of dollars more.
Nine of Pippen’s ten seasons were spent with the Chicago Bulls. He was a vital part of the Bulls’ six NBA championships and their record-setting 72-win season in 1995–96. He was a seven-time NBA All-Star and the MVP of the 1994 NBA All-Star Game. During the 1996–97 season, he was designated one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History, and he is one of four players whose jerseys have been retired by the Chicago Bulls. In addition, Pippen is the only player in NBA history to win both an NBA championship and an Olympic gold medal in the same year (1992, 1996).
KENNY ROGERS – $250 MILLION
Kenny Rogers was an American country singer, songwriter, actor, producer, photographer, and entrepreneur with a net worth of $250 million. Rogers, regarded as one of the great legends of country music, has sold over 165 million records and published over 65 albums worldwide.
Despite his death, Kenny left an indelible mark on the music industry, becoming one of the best-selling artists of all time during his career. Rogers recorded records in various genres over the years, including jazz, folk, pop, rock, and country. In addition, Kenny Rogers had a successful acting career in addition to his music. Rogers collaborated on several credited successes with singers such as Dolly Parton, Kim Carnes, Sheena Easton, Lionel Richie, and Lynda Carter during the 1980s. He earned a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for his song Make No Mistake, She’s Mine at the end of the decade. Many of Rogers’ records reached platinum over the next few years due to his global fame.
R. Kelly – $115 Million
There is only one man who deserves all the credit for the beloved hit singles I Believe I Can Fly, I Could Turn Back the Hands of Time, Your Body’s Callin’, The World’s Greatest, and Trapped in the Closet, and that is R. Kelly. The R&B legend has had a bountiful career ever since his early beginnings back in 1989. In addition, he has produced many albums and has collaborated with a number of artists such as Aaliyah, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Jennifer Hudson, and Lady Gaga.
His contributions to the industry, along with several investments, have earned him a net worth of as high as $115 million. Unfortunately, R. Kelly has encountered numerous personal issues in recent years. The problems, sadly, caught up with the singer’s fortune. Regardless, he will remain one of the most iconic musicians of all time.