Drew Carey’s Net Worth, Awards, Endorsements, Achievements, Contracts, Career Life, and Timeline
Net Worth
As of 2024, Drew Carey’s net worth is estimated to be around $165 million12. His wealth comes from his successful career in television, comedy, and various business ventures. He earns an annual salary of $12.5 million from hosting “The Price Is Right”1.
Awards
Drew Carey has received several awards and nominations throughout his career:
- People’s Choice Awards: Won for Favorite Male Performer in a New TV Series in 1995 for “The Drew Carey Show”1.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 20031.
- WWE Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2011 for his contributions to entertainment1.
Endorsements
Carey has endorsed several brands over the years. Notably, he was paid approximately $30 million for an advertisement for DirecTV in 20232. His endorsements have significantly contributed to his net worth.
Achievements
- The Drew Carey Show: Starred in and produced the hit sitcom from 1995 to 2004, earning $750,000 per episode in the later seasons1.
- Whose Line Is It Anyway?: Hosted the U.S. version of the improv comedy show from 1998 to 20071.
- The Price Is Right: Has been hosting the iconic game show since 2007, bringing his unique comedic style to the role1.
Contracts
Drew Carey signed several lucrative contracts throughout his career:
- The Drew Carey Show: Signed a five-year contract with ABC in 1995, earning $60,000 per episode initially, which increased significantly over the years3.
- The Price Is Right: His contract for hosting the show includes an annual salary of $12.5 million1.
Career Life
Drew Carey began his career in stand-up comedy in the mid-1980s. After serving in the United States Marine Corps Reserve from 1980 to 1986, he started performing at comedy clubs in Cleveland and Los Angeles. His big break came in 1988 when he appeared on “Star Search,” a popular talent competition show. This exposure led to appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and “Late Night with David Letterman,” where his relatable humor and quick wit gained him national recognition.
The Drew Carey Show
In 1995, Carey created and starred in “The Drew Carey Show,” a sitcom that aired on ABC. The show was set in Cleveland and revolved around a fictionalized version of Carey’s life as an office worker. It was known for its quirky humor, memorable characters, and innovative use of music and dance sequences. The show was a huge success, running for nine seasons until 2004. Carey’s portrayal of the everyman character resonated with audiences, and the show solidified his status as a household name.
Whose Line Is It Anyway?
In addition to his sitcom, Carey became the host of the U.S. version of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” in 1998. The improv comedy show featured a rotating cast of comedians who performed various improvisational games. Carey’s role as the host showcased his ability to engage with both the performers and the audience, and his quick wit made him a perfect fit for the show. “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” ran until 2007 and was revived in 2013 with a new host, but Carey’s tenure remains iconic.
The Price Is Right
In 2007, Carey took over as the host of the long-running game show “The Price Is Right,” succeeding Bob Barker. His affable personality and enthusiasm for the show have made him a beloved figure among fans. Under his tenure, the show has continued to enjoy high ratings and remains a staple of daytime television. Carey’s ability to connect with contestants and his genuine excitement for the games have contributed to the show’s enduring popularity.
Other Ventures
Carey has also ventured into other areas of entertainment. He has appeared in films, written an autobiography titled “Dirty Jokes and Beer: Stories of the Unrefined,” and participated in various charitable activities. He is a minority owner of the Major League Soccer team Seattle Sounders FC and has a passion for photography, particularly at U.S. National Team soccer games. In 2011, Carey was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame for his contributions to entertainment.
Timeline
- 1958: Born on May 23 in Cleveland, Ohio1.
- 1980: Enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve1.
- Also 1985: Began his stand-up comedy career1.
- 1995: “The Drew Carey Show” premiered1.
- Also 1998: Began hosting “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”1.
- 2003: Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame1.
- Also 2007: Began hosting “The Price Is Right”1.
- 2011: Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame1.
- 2023: Paid $30 million for a DirecTV advertisement2.