The entertainment industry allows actors to entertain and educate the public using their talents. As a multi-billion dollar business, it financially rewards hard work and dedication, encouraging artists to be the best at what they do. Read on to see the top 10 wealthiest actors, some of whom had almost nothing at the onset of their careers.
Adam Sandler—$450 million
Adam Sandler is one of Hollywood’s most successful comedians and actors. He is known for his roles in films like “Billy Madison,” “Happy Gilmore,” and “The Waterboy.” Sandler’s comedic style has earned him a massive fanbase, leading to box-office hits and lucrative deals.
Kevin Hart—$450 million
The more significant part of Kevin Hart’s fortune comes from his comedy and film roles. Hart’s success extends beyond acting; he has authored books, produced TV and standup comedy shows, and owns several investments. His appearances in movies like “Ride Along” and “Central Intelligence” attest to his talent.
Arnold Schwarzenegger—$450 million
Schwarzenegger’s movies, such as “Terminator” and “Predator,” have paid him handsomely. Since his movie debut in 1970, Arnold Schwarzenegger has remained one of Hollywood’s most successful movie stars. Beyond his acting career, Arnold has several investments in real estate and business ventures, including his former fitness empire.
Robert De Niro—$500 million
With over five decades of acting experience, Robert De Niro has appeared in films like “The Godfather Part II,” and “Taxi Driver” for which he won an Academy Award. De Niro is also a producer and director and co-founded the Tribeca Film Festival.
George Clooney—$500 million
George Clooney is a successful actor, producer, and director. His notable works include “ER,” “Ocean’s Eleven,” and “Gravity.” Clooney’s significant earnings also come from his involvement in real estate and the sale of Casamigos Tequila, which was sold to Diageo for $1 billion.
Tom Cruise—$600 million
Born Thomas Cruise Mapother IV in Syracuse, New York, Cruise’s film debut came with a small role in “Endless Love” (1981), but his first break was in the 1983 film “Risky Business.” Blockbuster films like “Top Gun” and “Mission: Impossible” helped skyrocket his career.
Dwayne Johnson—$800 million
Popularly known as “The Rock,” Dwayne Johnson transitioned from wrestling to acting. Successful franchises featuring the actor include “Fast & Furious” and “Jumanji,” significantly increasing his wealth. Dwayne is an entrepreneur per excellence, successfully building the Teremana Tequila brand and the “Project Rock” line.
Shah Rukh Khan—$900 million
“King of Bollywood” is a title rightly befitting Shah Ruhk Khan. Born in New Delhi, Khan’s acting debut was in “Deewana.” He owns Red Chillies Entertainment and co-owns the Kolkata Knight Riders, a highly successful team in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Jerry Seinfeld—$950 million
Jerry Seinfeld gained immense wealth from his hit TV show, Seinfeld, which remains one of the most successful sitcoms in history. The show continues to generate substantial income through syndication and streaming platforms. Seinfeld is a successful standup comedian who invests in real estate.
Tyler Perry—$1 billion
Tyler Perry is Hollywood’s wealthiest. Tyler is a groundbreaking entertainment personality known for his Madea films and stage plays. He owns Tyler Perry Studios, one of the largest production studios in the U.S. Perry owns several businesses and is a philanthropist.
