Drew Carey’s Net Worth: From Stand-Up Comedy to Game Show Icon
Beloved comedian, actor, and television host, Drew Carey, is estimated to be worth around $165 million as of 2024. Carey’s wealth stems from his career, which spans stand-up comedy, sitcoms, and as host of The Price Is Right. Through his down to earth personality and easy-going humor, Carey has created a lasting presence in entertainment that fans across generations have enjoyed.
Early Beginnings in Comedy
Drew Carey’s rise to prominence started in stand-up comedy. Carey performed at local clubs in the 1980s and developed a comedic style characterized by self-deprecating humor and observations. His early stand-up years were challenging, but he eventually got national exposure in 1988 when he appeared on Star Search. His breakout moment came when he appeared on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, where his performance impressed the audience and Carson himself, marking a milestone for him.
Success with “The Drew Carey Show”
Creating and starring in The Drew Carey Show (1995), a sitcom loosely based on his own life, was Carey’s first television success. The show lasted nine seasons, and was one of the hottest sitcoms of the late ’90s. The latter seasons reportedly brought Carey $750,000 per episode, which added greatly to his net worth. His relatable portrayal of an everyday guy dealing with life’s absurdities propelled him to national stardom.
Royalties from the show’s syndication continued long after its original run ended, giving Carey more earnings and a steady income stream. The success of the show opened doors to more opportunities in other areas of television.
Host of “The Price Is Right”
In 2007, Drew Carey replaced Bob Barker as host of The Price Is Right. The role came with both a prestigious legacy and a huge salary, starting at $9 million per year, which later increased over time as the show grew under his leadership. Hosting The Price Is Right was a natural fit for Carey, whose easygoing personality and improvisational skills brought new energy to the game show. This has been among the biggest drivers of Carey’s wealth, as he’s been in the role for 15 years and has made millions of dollars per season.
Other Ventures and Appearances
In addition to his major television roles, Carey has ventured into various businesses, including executive producing and hosting Whose Line Is It Anyway?, which broadened his comedic appeal and added to his earnings. He’s also appeared in films, written a memoir titled Dirty Jokes and Beer: Stories of the Unrefined, and invested in real estate, including a Los Angeles luxury home.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Drew Carey’s success has allowed him to give back in many ways. Carey has donated generously to causes such as libraries, veterans’ organizations, and children’s hospitals. His passion for supporting the U.S. military stems from his own background as a Marine, and he continues to give back through various charitable efforts, often involving veterans.
