Who says comedy doesn’t pay? Many comedians have honed their skills and become filthy rich by becoming actors, producers, and writers. Take a look at the ten wealthiest comedians:
10. Jay Leno- Net Worth $350 Million
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno host and car enthusiast made most of his millions while hosting the famous show. Leno was with the show for 22 years. Since then, he has started his show Jay Leno’s Garage, which shows his love for cars and motorcycles.
9. David Letterman – Net Worth $400 Million
David Letterman was a staple of late-night television for 33 years with Late Night with David Letterman and The Late Show with David Letterman. He has been extremely successful with his natural comedic charisma, which has helped him earn his millions.
8. Byron Allen- Net Worth $400 Million
Byron Allen may not be a household name like others on this list. Still, he is a comedian and producer who has made millions over the years from his television shows and other credits and acquisitions.
7. Bill Cosby – Net Worth $400 Million
The 83-year-old Cosby began his journey in the ’70s with small films and standup comedy but made his mark in the ’80s with the extremely popular The Cosby Show, in which he starred and produced. He also had an animated television series titled Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids.
6. Larry David- Net Worth $400 Million
Larry David helped create and write the hit sitcom Seinfeld with Jerry Seinfeld. He also wrote, starred in, and produced his show, Curb Your Enthusiasm on HBO. With both series being major successes, David has earned over $400 million for his troubles.
5. Ellen DeGeneres- Net Worth $450 Million
DeGeneres began her career as a standup comic in the early ’80s. She has since been the host of her show twice, with the second becoming enormously popular. She has also hosted many award shows and done commercial work, added to her bank account.
4. Matt Stone – Net Worth $500 Million
Matt Stone is one half of the duo to create and produce the show South Park. Stone has also made feature films as well as Broadway productions.
3. Trey Parker – Net Worth $500 Million
Parker is the second half of the South Park partnership. Paired with Matt Stone, Parker has benefited from producing movies as well as the hit show. With South Park being such a significant hit, Parker and Stone have become multi-millionaires.
2. Matt Groening- Net Worth $500 Million
Matt Groening is the creator, producer, and animator of The Simpsons and Futurama. The Simpsons are currently the longest-running show on television, helping Groening to his $500 million fortune.
1. Jerry Seinfeld- Net Worth $950 Million
Seinfeld began his career as a standup comedian until he created and starred in his own show Seinfeld. He blows away everyone else on this list, almost doubling the closest person with a whopping $950 million to his name.
Being funny can bring you one big payday if you play your cards right. And don’t make too much fun of that class clown. He could end up on a list like this one day.
