Category: Acting

  • Tom Cruise’s Net Worth in 2023: His Insane Riches & Wild Lifestyle

    Tom Cruise’s Net Worth in 2023: His Insane Riches & Wild Lifestyle

    Tom Cruise’s Net Worth is $600 Million

    Tom Cruise is the boss of Tinseltown. The man enjoys a career that has spanned several decades, he has to his name countless box office smashes, a to-die-for lifestyle full of private planes and swanky cars, and of course, an envy-inducing collection of mansions. It’s no surprise he has a net worth of $600 million. Cruise is an icon, a major player in the film industry but a fan favorite adored by millions when he’s not in front of the camera.

    So, how does Tom Cruise’s absurd wealth compare to other A-listers, and just how did you amass such a bankroll? Well, we’re hear to tell you, so strap in as we take a deep dive into Tom Cruise’s finances. We take a look at how he makes money and, just as fun, how he spends money, as well as his personal life and the major events that shaped the man he is.

    NameThomas Cruise Mapother IV
    BirthplaceSyracuse, New York
    ProfessionActor
    Net Worth$600 Million
    BirthdayJuly 3, 1962 (Cancer)
    NationalityAmerican
    Height5 ft 7 in (170 cm)
    Relationship statusDivorced (previously married to Mimi Rogers, Nicole Kidman, and Katie Holmes)

    From High School Actor to Hollywood Heartthrob: Early Career and Initial Breakthrough

    Tom Cruise started out as just a high school kid with big dreams, but managed to kickstart his acting journey when he hit the big screen in 1981 with Endless Love (dreamy title, right?). He then filled supporting roles in Taps (1981) and The Outsiders (1983) before moving over to the limelight to play a high school senior in Risky Business (1983). It was here that people started to take notice.

    While movie-goers thought he was cute in that film, he cemented his status as a full-blown heartthrob in Top Gun (1986). In the action flick, Cruise took on the role of a navy jet pilot. Thanks to Cruise’s charm and boyish good looks (not to mention, a killer soundtrack and thrilling jet scenes), Top Gun became the biggest money-maker of the year.

    His wasn’t just a pretty face, though. Tom put his acting chops on display and earned his first Academy Award nom for playing a war vet-turned-activist in Born on the Fourth of July (1989).

    A Deep Dive Into The Dough: Revenue From Tom Cruise’s Acting Career

    Tom Cruise has been acting consistently for over 40 years so, yeah… he has earned a fortune. But how does that fortune break down? Remember his first real starring role in Risky Business (1983)? He earned $75,000 for that gig. Then he scored $500,000 for Legend (1985) and a sweet $2 million for Top Gun (1986). His star was clearly in the ascendency.

    The real cash cow, though, is the Mission: Impossible franchise. For the first film in the series, released in 1996, Tom raked in $70 million, and then grabbed $100 million and $75 million for the next two respectively, all thanks to some slick backend deals and producer credits. Proving to be such box office smashes, it’s no surprise there are more “Mission: Impossible” movies coming, with the eighth film set for release in 2024.

    Not averse to sequels, Tom reprised his role as Maverick in the aptly titled Top Gun: Maverick. Tom reportedly scored a cool $13 million upfront, with the chance to pocket millions more from backend deals, ticket sales, rentals, and streaming revenue.

    Between 1983 and 2019, Tom’s career earnings ascended to a jaw-dropping $745 million. That breaks down, according to some, to $7,091 a word of dialogue. Yeah, you read that right. Those are some expensive lines!

    Tom Cruise’s $$$ Game is Strong: Other Revenues

    Tom Cruise established himself as an immensely talented actor very early in his career. Perhaps less known is just how business savvy he is. Tom has earned a lot of money from his other projects and assets. For instance, he didn’t limit himself to an acting role on Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018); he actually contributed some of his own money and claimed a producer credit. The move paid off (literally) as the sequel made over $791 million worldwide.

    But wait, there’s more! In 1993, Tom teamed up with his former talent agent Paula Wagner to create Cruise/Wagner Productions. They didn’t just produce his own films, they also produced such successes as “The Others” (2001) (released the same year Cruise and star Nicole Kidman got divorced), “Vanilla Sky” (2001), and “Shattered Glass” (2003). So, even when Tom isn’t in front of the camera, he is still working and improving his bottom line.

    Besides acting and producing, Tom loves to teach and share his passion for filmmaking. He developed his own flight-training program for “Top Gun: Maverick” — how many producers can boast that kind of commitment to a project?

    He also earns money through real estate, having in his stable a bunch of luxury properties worth over $50 million. In fact, he has been dealing in the high-end property market since the ’90s. When he’s not on the move, which he does frequently, it seems, he puts his legs up in one of his many properties, with one in Beverly Hills, California, and a sophisticated penthouse in Clearwater, Florida.

    The Luxe Life and Cool Contributions: Tom’s Notable Possessions

    While Tom Cruise is committed to earning money, he isn’t afraid to spend a bit of it, too. He has spent an exorbitant amount of money on some admittedly cool stuff, but he has also spent some of his earnings helping others. Check out a few of his swanky buys and awesome causes:

    • Tom has the car collection you would expect from someone who played a driver in Days of Thunder. He’s rollin’ with a Bugatti Veyron Super Sport (valued at $2 million), a classic 1949 Buick Roadmaster, a vintage 1953 Chevrolet Corvette, and a sleek Porsche 911.
    • He’s also huge motorcycle fan (which might explain the death-defying motorcycle stunts he pulls off in the Mission: Impossible series). He’s got some incredible bikes, like a Triumph Thruxton, Kawasaki GPZ900R, Ducati Desmosedici RR, BMW S1000 RR, and a Ducati 999R.
    • Tom apparently loves transportation because he has his pilot’s license, too. He’s been flying solo since the ’90s and has to his name a vintage P-51 Mustang and a Gulfstream IV G4 jet (that even has a Jacuzzi and movie screening room!), he’s been flying solo since the ’90s!
    • And to top it all off, when Tom wants to get away from it all, he chills on the Lady S, a superyacht (complete with outdoor movie theater, helipad, and swimming pool) that sets him back $594,000 a week.

    Tom’s not all about living the high life, though. Back in 2007, he gave a cool $2.5 million to the Church of Scientology, which they say helped fund humanitarian programs all over the world.

    Eyes Wide Open: A Peek Into Tom Cruise’s Personal Life

    Tom’s love life has been a tumultuous one. He has married three times; all three relationships ended in divorce. Tom first married actress Mimi Rogers, whom he later left for Nicole Kidman in 1990 after the pair met on the set of Days of Thunder. Together, they adopted two kids, Isabella and Connor, but they parted ways in 2001.

    His third marriage, to Katie Holmes in 2006, attracted a lot of negative attention on account of the 16-year age difference. Nevertheless, they welcomed an adorable daughter named Suri in 2006, the same year they got married. This relationship, too, didn’t last; they divorced in 2012.

    Beyond those women he has married, Tom has dated quite a few Hollywood stunners: Melissa Gilbert, Heather Locklear, Rebecca De Mornay, Cher, and Penélope Cruz (the press loved that the pair shared the same last name, in sound if not in spelling). He also had a thing with fellow Scientologist Nazanin Boniadi.

    When he’s not working, Tom dedicates his time to fatherhood. Despite his three divorces and kids from different marriages, he maintains a close and loving relationship with them, often taking them on wild adventures (we expect nothing less).

    OMG, You Won’t Believe These Tom Cruise Moments!: Select Major Events

    A career as long as Tom’s is going to have its ups and downs. You can only be interviewed so often before you say something that might rub people the wrong way.

    Such was the case in 2005 when Tom appeared on “The Today Show”. A tepid interview went off the rails when the star started sounding off on psychiatry and anti-depressants. He even called out Brooke Shields for using meds for her postpartum depression. His outburst caused some serious drama with mental health professionals and the public.

    Then in 2008, a video was leaked of him passionately promoting Scientology and, once again, dismissing psychiatry. Unsurprisingly, the clip blew up online. Very quickly, everyone started talking about the secrecy of Scientology and the intensity with which Cruise abides by its tenets.

    His religious fervor has led to legal throwdowns with tabloids because of all the stories about his life and connections to Scientology. He sued Bauer Media Group for a whopping $50 million because of stories it published about Cruise and his daughter Suri. The issue was settled, though, with the money awarded going to charity.

  • Sylvester Stallone Net Worth (2023): From Rocky to Riches

    Sylvester Stallone Net Worth (2023): From Rocky to Riches

    Sylvester Stallone’s Net Worth is $400 Million

    Sylvester Stallone — a.k.a. the ultimate underdog Rocky Balboa, a.k.a. super action-hero John Rambo — has been a fixture in the entertainment world for over five decades. Whether as an actor, director, or a writer, Stallone has steadily amalgamated a jaw-dropping net worth of $400 million!

    What’s been bringing home the big bucks for him over the years? And more importantly, how’s he spending those big bucks? Keep reading for a peek at the insane world of Stallone’s net worth, where it comes from, and how he’s always finding new ways to increase it.

    ProfessionActor, Director, Screenwriter, Producer
    Net Worth$400 million
    BirthdayJuly 6, 1946 (Cancer)
    NationalityAmerican
    Height5 ft 10 in (177 cm)
    Relationship statusMarried to Jennifer Flavin (m. 1997)

    Early Life, Career Beginnings, and The Rise of the Italian Stallion

    Sylvester Stallone was born on July 6, 1946. His love for acting started while attending the American College of Switzerland. He managed to keep the flame alive even when he moved to the University of Miami, where he eventually ditched school just a few credits shy of graduating. Instead, he chased the dream to NYC, with wide eyes for Broadway.

    The start of his acting journey, however, was less than auspicious. Stallone debuted in a 1970 adult film called “The Party at Kitty and Stud’s,” which later got renamed to “The Italian Stallion”, as a way to cash in on his rising stardom. Despite snagging a few minor, uncredited roles in movies like Woody Allen’s “Bananas” and “Klute”, Stallone was still searching for his big break in Tinseltown.

    Rather than wait to be discovered, Stallone took matters into his own hands. A boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner inspired Stallone to write the script for Rocky. The film not only transformed the landscape of Stallone’s career but of cinema at large. It all could have been different had producers succeeded in casting a well-known actor for the lead role, but Stallone refused to sell the story unless he could star as Rocky Balboa. In an instance of reality mirroring art, underdog Stallone refused to buckle to studio giants and was eventually rewarded with the titular role. The film would prove to be a commercial success, emerging as the highest-grossing movie of 1976. It would also be critically acclaimed. It was nominated for 10 Academy Awards in 1977; it won three, including Best Picture. For his part, Stallone was nominated for both his acting (Male Lead) and screenplay. Though he didn’t win in either category, Stallone was now a bona fide star. He would return to the “Rocky” franchise throughout his career, starring in five sequels and appearing in the two “Creed” films, the latter of which he co-wrote.

    Sly was now a household name and his career appeared limitless.

    Revenues from Primary Career: Rocky to Rambo

    Stallone has definitely made the most of the “Rocky” franchise, raking in more than $1.7 billion worldwide. The success was almost immediate, with the original “Rocky” movie from 1976 turning a budget of $1 million into $225 million worldwide. And the more recent 2018’s “Creed II” repped Balboa with a cool $214 million worldwide.

    But Rocky isn’t the only money-making saga for Stallone. In 1982, “First Blood” introduced the world to Stallone’s hardcore war hero John Rambo. The “Rambo” series has since racked up over $727 million worldwide, with “Rambo: First Blood Part II” from 1985 topping the list with a $300 million capital.

    Yes, Stallone has done it all—directing, producing, screenwriting in both movies and TV, and in styles from comedy to drama — but his renown will always stem from these two powerhouse franchises.

    Exploring Alternative Revenue Sources: From Art to Business Ventures

    Once his acting career launched, Stallone pursued life as a painter. In fact, people around the world have seen his work in top galleries, like the prestigious Galerie Contemporaine du Musee de Nice where he had a retrospective.

    In November 2021, the multi-talented dude wowed the Munich art scene with another retrospective called “Sylvester Stallone. Art. 1975-2021” at the Kunsthalle. His exhibition featured 90 mind-blowing abstract expressionist and neo-expressionist works, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.

    But Stallone didn’t stop there. He merged his family life with his professional life with a reality show called “The Stallone Sisters”, starring his wife Jennifer Flavin and their daughters, Sophia, Sistine, and Scarlet. He continues to support his daughters’ efforts in the modeling/fashion industry as they seek to make names for themselves. Plus, he co-founded Balboa Productions to work with MGM on fresh movies and TV shows. Speaking of “fresh”, he entered the food business in 1991 when he started the Planet Hollywood restaurant chain with Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

    Like a true celeb, Stallone has earned a substantial amount through endorsement deals, repping luxury watches from Panerai and even the UK breadmaker Warburtons in a TV ad campaign. He’s also made money more covertly, slipping brands like Chevrolet, Coca-Cola, and Nike into his films.

    Sly even runs “Sly Stallone’s Shop” on his website so that die-hard fans can score autographs, merch, and supplements – thanks to the team-up between GNC Nutrition Centers and his company Instone LLC.

    Notable Possessions, Lavish Lifestyle, and Charitable Endeavors

    Because of his success in Hollywood and beyond, Stallone has been living the high life in style. He owns a lavish Hidden Hills, California, compound that he listed in 2019 for a cool $110 million. It’s got everything – 21,000 square feet, eight bedrooms, twelve bathrooms, a wine cellar, gym, cigar room, and even a home theater. Oh, and let’s not forget the guesthouse, tennis court, putting green, and pool.

    The man loves his cars too, from his 1955 Ford Thunderbird to a 1996 Rolls-Royce, a 2009 Aston Martin DB9, and even a 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT. And that’s not all – he’s even owned a Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Bentley Continental GT, and a Lamborghini Aventador at different points throughout his life.

    But it’s not all about luxury. In 2015, he put his big heart on display when he auctioned off some personal “Rocky” and “Rambo” treasures for charity, including the boxing gloves and robe from “Rocky III”. The auction took place at the MGM Grand in Vegas and raised over $3 million for the Sylvester Stallone Foundation, which is all about helping military vets and kids in need.

    Personal Life: Family, Marriages, and Connections

    Sylvester Stallone has been living the happy life with wife Jennifer Flavin for over two decades now. These lovebirds met back in ’88 in a fancy Beverly Hills restaurant and finally tied the knot in ’97. They’ve had their ups and downs over the years, but they’re still going strong, raising their squad of daughters: Sophia, Sistine, and Scarlet.

    Before Jen, Sly was married to a woman named Sasha Czack and they had two sons, Sage and Seargeoh. Sadly, Sage passed away in 2012. Their other son, Seargeoh, who has autism, stays out of the limelight.

    When Stallone isn’t working in Hollywood, he likes to socialize with some of the industry’s biggest names. He calls his Planet Hollywood brothers Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger friends. Plus, he’s tight with his “Expendables” crew, like Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, and Jet Li.

    Major Events: Controversies and Legal Issues

    Back in 2002, Sly Stallone sued his former business manager, accusing him of failing to notify Stallone of Planet Hollywood’s money troubles. Sly said he lost a whopping $17.3 million and demanded compensation. The lawsuit went all the way to a federal court in Miami before getting settled in 2004, but the details have not been disclosed.

    In 2017, a woman claimed Stallone sexually assaulted her in 1990. The case was tossed out in 2018 because the LA County DA’s Office felt like there was insufficient evidence. Sly retaliated by filing his own police report, claiming the woman had filed a false report.

    Sly has also engaged in legal battles within the film industry. In 2021 he sued MGM over money he thought he was owed for his iconic “Rocky” movies. In July 2022, a judge sided with him and told MGM to pay 50% of the original “Rocky” movie’s net profits—around $13.5 million. But MGM has taken umbrage with the decision and has appealed, arguing that the contract’s terms were open to interpretation.

  • Kevin Hart’s Net Worth in 2023

    Kevin Hart’s Net Worth in 2023

    Kevin Hart’s Net Worth is $450 Million

    Funny, charming and full of life, Kevin Hart is more than just a TV personality. As a comedian, he can make you laugh at the simplest things. His sense of humor has not only made us laugh, it’s got him through the ups and downs of his career. He’s a master of the comeback, never letting anything bring him down for too long. This ability to pick himself up and keep at it in a fickle industry is the part of the reason why Hart is now one of the biggest earners in Hollywood.

    As of 2023, Kevin Hart’s net worth is a whopping $450 million. Hell, he made over $59 million between July 2018 and June 2019 alone. This stack of cash didn’t just fall into his lap (would be nice if it did!). Behind it all is loads of hard work, smart moves, and an unwavering spirit to bring laughter and motivation into our lives.

    You’ll remember his hilarious roles in the box office smashes, and his stand-up gigs that keep you glued to the stage. But don’t be fooled by his funny side, there’s serious hustle and smarts behind his success, leading him to stack up some major dough. Want to know more? Pull up a chair and let’s dive into the deep pockets of comedian extraordinaire Kevin Hart.

    NameKevin Darnell Hart
    ProfessionComedian, Actor, Producer
    Net Worth$450 million
    BirthplacePhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
    BirthdayJuly 6, 1979 (Cancer)
    NationalityAmerican
    Height5 ft 2 in (157 cm)
    Relationship statusMarried to Eniko Hart since 2016

    The Making of a Comedy Superstar: Kevin’s early career and breakthrough

    Before he was making us laugh and taking over Hollywood in the process, Kevin Hart was just a kid from Philly with big dreams and determination. He was born on July 6, 1979, to Nancy Hart and Henry Witherspoon. It was mainly his mom who took care of him and his big bro, Robert, ’cause their dad was caught up in addiction and legal hang-ups.

    Despite the tough upbringing, Hart punched his way through all that with a punchline. He always had that zest for making people laugh. Starting small, his funny takes got people chuckling and pretty soon he was on everybody’s ‘guaranteed good time’ list.

    Hart really caught the world’s attention in 2011 with his comedy special “Laugh At My Pain”. Soon, he was everywhere—including the list of the hottest Ticketmaster comedians. Not just stand-up, he was also nailing it in movies like “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” (2005), “Little Fockers” (2010), and “Think Like a Man” (2012).

    After that, everything just kept going up for Hart. He was in so many hit movies, like “Ride Along” (2014) and its killer sequel (2016), “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” (2017), and “Night School” (2018). Hart was on a roll, and his killer comic timing made him a global sensation.

    Raking in the Laughs: Kevin’s earnings from his comedy career

    Comedy is about more than just chuckles and giggles. If you’re serious about it, you need to think beyond stand-up gigs. That was clearly Kevin’s strategy, as his knee-slapping humor has made him a very rich man. Turns out, there’s money to be made from making people roll on the floor laughing.

    Since his fame skyrocketed, Kevin’s shows have been pulling in some serious coin to the tune of a million dollars a gig back in 2016. But it was his “What Now?” tour in 2015-2016 where he seriously cashed in, netting a jaw-dropping $70 million.

    But rather than rest on his laurels—hilarious laurels, though they were—he brought us another killer tour in 2018. “Kevin Hart: The Irresponsible Tour” not just sold a cool million tickets, it stuffed a neat $30 million into his already-bulging bank account. This, plus other side hustles, helped Hart zip up to the 39th slot of Forbes‘ highest-paid entertainers that year, crowning him the top-earning funny guy on the list

    Master of Many Trades: Kevin’s diverse revenue streams

    We’ve established that Kevin Hart is a big-deal comedian, but did you know he’s also a big-shot entrepreneur? Aside from cracking us up on stage and screen, Hart is killing it in the business world, completely boosting his bank account while showing us he’s got some serious entrepreneurial skills.

    Hart owns an 85% interest in HartBeat, a media venture he started in 2009. Today, this venture’s got a valuation of $650 million. He then had the ingenious idea of merging his two production companies—Laugh Out Loud and HartBeat—into one powerhouse brand. This move locked in a $100-million investment in 2022. Plus, he’s also dabbling in the digital world with his own NFT collection, which is expected tto rake in $650,000.

    Hart has also taken a big leap into the fashion and alcohol industry. In 2020, he saw an opportunity in men’s sportswear and introduced the Fabletics Men line. Two years later, he came up with his own high-end tequila label Gran Coramino, competing with other celebrity liquor labels, like that of his buddy Dwayne Johnson. Same year, he opened the first Hart House, a plant-based fast food joint.

    Living the Luxe Life: Kevin’s notable possessions and philanthropic efforts

    In 2015, Kevin dropped $1.35 million on a 26-acre patch and erected a swanky Spanish-style villa there. The property features a crystal-blue swimming pool, luxe cabana, an awesome kid’s playground, and not one but two guesthouses. He apparently liked the area so much, he snatched up the neighboring house, too: a 16.3-acre mansion with six bedrooms, six bathrooms, an infinity-edge pool, and a tennis court – all for just $7 million. These two hot properties combined are valued at $10 million.

    When it comes to sweet rides, Hart is the guy to beat. His car collection is drool worthy. He’s got it all: vintage Mustangs, a ’66 Pontiac GTO, ’69 Chevy Camaro, ’70 Plymouth Barracuda, ’70 Dodge Charger “Hellraiser”, ’77 Ford Bronco, GMC Yukon XL Denali, Jeep Wrangler, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Edition, Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG, and for a cherry on top, Aston Martin Vanquish and Ferrari 458 Spyder and the 488 GTB.

    But Hart’s not just about the bling. He’s got a heart of gold, too. In 2017, he started his own charity, Help From the Hart (HFTH), which supports local initiatives that boost education, health, and social needs of those who most need it. They also partner with Britti-Cares International, making life a little bit more bearable for kids dealing with childhood cancer.

    The Heart of Hart: Kevin’s personal life

    Kevin Hart’s childhood was rough. He and his brother Robert were brought up by their mother Nancy. Given that their dad, Henry Witherspoon, was more into drugs than being a parent, it was all on her to keep the family together. But rather than let this mess up his life, Kevin channeled the hardship into fire that fueled his journey to stardom.

    Moving on to romance, Kevin has had two trips down the aisle. His first “I do” was to Torrei Hart back in 2003. They made two adorable babies together: Heaven Leigh and Hendrix. The fairy tale ended in 2011. His second attempt at marriage, in 2016, is with Eniko Parrish. The pair are still together, and have added two more to the Hart squad, with Kenzo Kash and Kaori May.

    And his rambunctious brood? Kevin totally adores them. Hendrix isn’t just his son, but his “best man” and best buddy too! And have you heard he’s got a mini comedian in the making? His eldest, Heaven, is apparently a chip off the ol’ block, so maybe she’ll hit the comedy stage some time soon.

    Navigating Through Life’s Storms: Controversies throughout Kevin’s life

    In 2018, Hart scored the chance of a lifetime: hosting the Oscars. But with great power comes great Twitter responsibility, right? Unearthed were old homophobic statements and no sooner had the Oscars gig been handed to him than it was taken away (technically, Hart apologized and stepped down).

    The year previous, in 2017, Kevin landed in some hot legal soup. A video of him and model Montia Sabbag being intimate was released. Sabbag sued the comedian for negligence, emotional distress, invasion of privacy, and a $60 million. She also sued the hotel and wanted the man responsible for the video to be brought to justice. In 2019, the suit was dismissed for being filed in the wrong jurisdiction.

  • Mariska Hargitay’s Net Worth in 2023

    Mariska Hargitay’s Net Worth in 2023

    Mariska Hargitay’s Net Worth is $100 Million

    Mariska Hargitay, our favorite detective Olivia Benson from the smashing hit TV show “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit”, isn’t just an actor—she’s also a seriously savvy businesswoman with a head for real estate and a stunning net worth estimated at $100 million as of 2023. And we’re taking you behind the scenes.

    We all know her as the consistent star of one of TV’s longest-lasting dramas. She’s totally aced that part, no doubt. But there’s so much more to her than just the small screen. She’s managed to stash away one heck of a fortune while also making smart moves on the real estate landscape. Seriously, her achievements are just getting more amazing every year.

    And now it’s time to dive deep into Mariska’s financial journey that’s been anything but conventional. We’re going to explore the wealth she’s built up, the investments she’s made and the key career moments that have put her on the financial map.

    NameMariska Magdolna Hargitay
    ProfessionActress, Producer, Director
    Net Worth$100 Million
    BirthplaceSanta Monica, California, USA
    BirthdayJanuary 23, 1964 (Aquarius)
    NationalityAmerican
    Height / Weight5 ft 8 in (172 cm)
    Relationship statusMarried to Peter Hermann

    The Making of Mariska: Early life and breakthrough

    Mariska Hargitay was born to be a star. Her mom was the glamorous actress Jayne Mansfield and her dad was muscleman Mickey Hargitay. Even though she tragically lost her mom in a car accident when she was just a toddler (an accident that she and her two brothers amazingly survived), she was destined to follow in her parents’ famous footsteps.

    Born in Washington, but eventually settling in Los Angeles, Mariska caught the acting bug in high school. Not long after, she was strutting her stuff in beauty pageants, then moved onto honing her acting chops at UCLA’s School of Theatre, Film and Television. She also dabbled in improv with the comedy troupe Groundlings in L.A. She got her acting break in 1984 in a music video for country star Ronnie Milsap, and then starred in the creepy movie Ghoulies.

    Mariska flirted with a fair few roles on the small screen early in her career. She made appearances on “Baywatch”, “thirtysomething”, and “Booker” but it wasn’t until she landed the role of intense Detective Olivia Benson on the “Law & Order” spinoff, “Special Victims Unit”, that she really hit the big time. She probably had no idea just how impactful this role would be. Her portrayal of the powerful and empathetic Detective Olivia Benson didn’t just bring a character to life; it made an icon.

    She holds the record for the longest time portraying a single character by the same actor on a TV show. Her incredible performances have earned her some serious kudos, being nominated every year for a Best Actress Emmy from 2004 to 2011, eventually winning the award in 2006.

    A Detective’s Salary: Mariska’s primary earnings

    Once Mariska Hargitay stepped into those detective shoes, she lit a fire and climbed the ladder at lightning speed. With her killer skills and unwavering passion, it was hardly a shocker when she made it to the top brass of TV’s best-paid group. Being the reigning queen on set, Hargitay scoops up a mind-blowing $500,000 an episode.

    The cash doesn’t stop flowing once the camera’s off, though. Rumor has it that stars on the series bag roughly 6% of their original pay in syndication royalties annually. So Mariska earns money through Det. Benson even when she’s away from the set. Given the never-ending love for the show, those royalties sure can pile high. According to a cursory calculation, she earns at least $660,000 annually from syndication royalties alone – and that’s probably on the conservative side.

    With a whopping 24 seasons under her belt and more coming up, Hargitay’s reign as one of TV’s most intriguing characters has truly powered a pocket-popping empire.

    Away From The Station: Mariska’s alternative revenue streams

    Mariska’s bank balance owes its health to more than Olivia Benson. Though an Emmy winner, Hargitay is also a boss when it comes to making money beyond acting.

    One thing Hargitay has a keen eye for, apart from crime scene clues, is prime real estate. In 2012, she and her hubby, actor Peter Hermann, dropped $10.7 million for an Upper West Side townhouse. We’re talking six floors, 7,000 square feet, an elevator, double-height ceilings, a garden, sunroom, and not one but two terraces. A few years later, they listed it for a bit more than what they paid, sealing the deal at $10.75 million.

    In 2008, she put another bustling piece in her property empire up for sale—a penthouse in NYC she bought the previous year for $7.1 million. Located all the way up on the seventh floor of the O’Neill Building on Sixth Avenue, this baby is a piece of history with its 19th-century roots. It went up for sale in 2020 for $13.5 million. 

    A Lot of Heart: Mariska’s philanthropy

    While Mariska Hargitay earns money from her day job on “Law & Order: SVU” AND accumulates some pocket money with the flipping of her real estate properties, she also gives back and is committed to making a real difference. Her passion for helping survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse led her to create the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004. The goal? To change the way we respond to these issues, support healing for survivors, and, ultimately, put a stop to this violence. It appears art has influenced reality, as Det. Benson’s exposure to the horrors of abuse have spurred the actor to take action and help those in need.

    Like a Hollywood Romance: Mariska’s personal life

    Let’s talk about Mariska and her hubby, Peter Hermann. Their romance plays like a Hollywood movie. They met on the set of “Law & Order: SVU” in season 3; Hermann was guest-starring as the slick defense attorney Trevor Langan. Their chemistry was off the charts and their relationship evolved into a dreamy love story, leading them down the aisle in August 2004.

    They are now parents to three adorable kids: their son August, and two adopted cuties, Amaya Josephine and Andrew Nicolas. Despite all the craziness that their jobs bring, these two always put their family first.

    On a more sentimental note, though Mariska’s memories with her mom are few due to her untimely death, those moments hold a super special place in her heart and have truly shaped who she is today. She told People in 2018 about her mother, “She was just so ahead of her time. She was an inspiration, she had this appetite for life, and I think I share that with her.”

    Jayne’s Girl: The challenges in Mariska’s life

    As alluded to, tough times started early for Mariska. She was just three years old when she survived the 1967 car crash that took the life of her mother Jayne Mansfield and two others. Though little Mariska and her brothers somehow managed to escape without a scratch, the memory of that awful event, we’re sure, will always be with them.

    In 2021, she had a trip-up at a screening that resulted in a trimalleolar fracture — that’s doctor-speak for a total foot mauling — which required surgery and some serious reshuffling of her schedule on “Law & Order: SVU”. But being the trooper that she is, Mariska did not let the accident dampen her spirit, and would eventually return to work in tip-top shape.

  • John Cena’s Net Worth in 2023

    John Cena’s Net Worth in 2023

    John Cena’s Net Worth is $80 Million

    From WWE wrestling rings to Hollywood movie sets, John Cena’s made it big in ways that are nothing short of jaw-dropping. Just imagine going from landing body slams to delivering punchlines, all while pocketing a cool $80 million along the way. Yup, you might say Cena’s net worth is as beefed up as his biceps.

    Ever heard of West Newbury, Massachusetts? If not, get ready to, because it’s the hometown of John. He didn’t just win in the WWE wresting ring; he conquered Tinseltown too, which is not something your average wrestler can claim. Our man’s got the Midas touch sprinkled with marketability, a charismatic personality, and some super sportsmanship that has seen him evolve from a muscle-bound wrestler into a beloved Hollywood superstar.

    And talk about never backing down! Cena’s knack for making money from one gig to another has been a bit like watching a money-making masterclass. Get this, he came to Cali fresh out of college with a tiny $500 in his wallet! Stay tuned as we dive into John Cena’s fabulous fortune, lush life, and his warm-hearted philanthropy. It’s all a fascinating snapshot of his truly remarkable life.

    NameJohn Felix Anthony Cena
    ProfessionProfessional Wrestler, Actor, Reality TV Host, Rapper
    Net Worth$80 million
    BirthplaceWest Newbury, Massachusetts, USA
    BirthdayApril 23, 1977 (Taurus)
    NationalityAmerican
    Height6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
    Relationship StatusMarried to Shay Shariatzadeh

    A Mass Boy Gains Mass: Early career and initial breakthrough

    Heard of John Felix Anthony Cena? You might know him better as wrestling superstar John Cena. You will not be surprised to learn that he’s been all about sports and fitness since he was a kid, way before all the fame and the big bucks. Born April 23, 1977, he was practically flexing before he could talk. He hit the gym hard at Springfield College, Massachusetts, after graduating in 1999 and turned his love for working out into a stepping stone towards a killer career in wrestling and entertainment.

    Imagine heading off to sunny California with just $500 in your pocket. Big dreams, slim wallet. That was Cena, hustling through the early days at the Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach, earning a whopping $6 an hour. His dad thought he’d be bust in a couple of weeks, but Cena didn’t let that get him down. He kept working (and working out) and, with his magnetic charm, the wrestling world couldn’t look away.

    By 2000, he was strutting into the wrestling ring as “The Prototype”. Cena wasted no time, snatching the Ultimate Pro Wrestling heavyweight championship just in the same year as his debut, which got WWE to sit up and pay some serious attention. He got picked up by Ohio Valley Wrestling, WWE’s training ground for new talent. In less than two years, his matches were the highlight of WWE events. By 2005, he clinched the big one – the WWE championship, shooting him straight into the elite RAW squad and turning him into a name everyone knew.

    But he didn’t want to be just a one-trick pony. While audiences were loving him in the ring, Cena took some shots at acting, too. He’s proven he can handle action roles in films like The Marine (2006) and 12 Rounds (2009), and show off his fun side with voice-acting gigs in stuff like Ferdinand (2017) and Dolittle (2020). He’s been knocking down walls and redefining the game, and yeah, making a pretty decent chunk of change along the way.

    Body Slams and Belly Laughs: Revenues from John’s primary career

    John Cena has been raking in the cash for years — first from laying the smackdown in the WWE ring then flexing his acting muscles on the big screen.

    Cena started to seriously cash in on the wrestling gig around 2016 when he bagged a cool $9.5 million from his WWE salary and merch sales. His income did take a bit of a hit in 2017 though, dropping to $8 million. But this dip coincided with the TV and movie roles he was scoring and the shift away from the wrestling mat.

    John’s move into the film world was just as bankable. He cashed in $280,000 for his first role in the 2006 flick The Marine. He even made it to the big leagues with a part in the comedy Trainwreck in 2015, bringing home a whopping $2.5 million for the gig.

    In 2021, Cena was tapped for the star-packed Fast & Furious franchise with F9: The Fast Saga. He played Jakob Toretto, Vin Diesel’s bro on screen, and pulled in $5 million for the privilege.

    Beyond the Square Circle & Silver Screen: John’s other revenues

    While wrestling and acting are the breadwinners for John Cena, he is no one-trick pony (or two-trick pony, even!). With a ton of different projects and endorsements under his belt, he’s making bank in more ways than body slams and action flicks.

    He’s partnered with some powerhouse brands. Thanks to a mix of charm and fame, Cena has signed big-money deals with everyone from Subway to Honda and Gillette, bringing in a cool $1.5 million a year. In 2020, he cashed yet another hefty paycheck—somewhere between $500,000 and $1 million—for one Experian commercial. It was a huge hit, thanks to the WWE champ’s screen presence.

    And then there’s Cena’s cocktail venture. Yep, you read that right. In 2022, he co-founded an upmarket cocktail brand called Thomas Ashbourne. Who’d have guessed the action star would be serving up a sophisticated tipple?

    A natural extension of his WWE persona, Cena dropped a rap album called You Can’t See Me, along with his cousin Tha Trademarc, in 2005. The album charted on the Billboard 200 at #15 and made quite the profit, proving the rhymes John spat in the ring weren’t just an act.

    Breaking Ground & Breaking Records: John’s notable possessions and philanthropic ventures

    Living the dream, thanks to his hard-earned dough, John Cena has treated himself to a load of cool stuff that really shows off his love for the finer things in life. But don’t get it twisted, Cena’s also a stand-up guy who’s done a ton of good in the world.

    Cena has done well on the housing front. He’s got a couple of ritzy places to crash in the States, like this killer pad in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. Back in 2005, he bought it for a cool half-million. It’s got stuff like indoor and outdoor pools, a man cave, a wow-worthy entrance, tons of garage space, and a garden that is so nice, he should offer tours of the grounds. These days, the place could fetch around $3.5 million.

    But Cena’s got more than sweet digs, the guy’s got serious car game, too. He bought an ’89 Jeep Wrangler with his first WWE contract in 2001. Keeping the Jeep company are his other hot rides, from old beauties to modern speed-demons like a custom ‘Vette, the “InCenaRator”, and a $400,000 Rolls-Royce.

    Cena’s biggest flex? His heart of gold. Guinness World Records declared the guy’s set the record for granting the most wishes in Make-A-Wish Foundation history. With 650 wishes and counting, Cena has made a world of difference in kids’ lives, showing he’s just as much of a champ off the mat.

    Roots & Romance: John’s personal life

    John Cena’s everyday life is jam-packed with just as much drama and fun as his wrestling bouts and Hollywood shoots. With an Italian dad and a mom with English and French-Canadian roots, it’s clear where Cena got his fiery spirit. He was a sports geek growing up, and that pumped-up childhood was his ticket to fame.

    His love life? It’s been a torrent. He married Elizabeth Huberdeau, his high school sweetheart, in 2009. But they called it quits in 2012. After that, he hooked up with wrestling star Nikki Bella, and their love saga was an open book due to their reality shows “Total Divas” and “Total Bellas”. They even got engaged at a WWE event but parted ways in 2018 after a solid six years.

    John would eventually find love again when he met Shay Shariatzadeh, a Canadian electrical engineer, on set of his 2019 film “Playing with Fire”. They played it low-key and tied the knot in 2020 in Florida, and then partied it up in Canada in 2022.

    A Bump in The Road: Major events in John’s life

    John’s wrestling career has had its fair share of ups and downs, including that messy situation with car manufacturer Ford back in 2018. Cena and his mad love for cool rides, be it vintage beauties or top-end modern monsters, is hardly under the radar. This love of his then got him into a truckload of trouble with Ford when he tried to sell his super rare Ford GT.

    It turns out Cena broke a deal with Ford. Under the agreement, Cena, lucky enough to get his hands on the exclusive Ford GT, was supposed to keep the car off the market for two years after delivery. John, however, sold it off before the allotted time had passed and consequently met with a lawsuit. Unsurprisingly, the issue was settled without heading to court where Cena would have been looking at some hefty fines.

  • Mark Wahlberg’s Net Worth in 2023

    Mark Wahlberg’s Net Worth in 2023

    Mark Wahlberg’s Met Worth is $400 Million

    From the charming narrow streets of Boston to the posh mansions perched on the hills of Beverly Hills, Mark Wahlberg’s journey to the top has been a wild, headlong dash into superstardom. When you realize he has dished out beats, struck poses, delivered award-worthy performances, signed entrepreneurial dealings, and conducted heartfelt charity work, it’s clear that Wahlberg’s had his fingers in more pies than most. The result? A fat wallet, jam-packed with a cool $400 million as of 2022.

    A brood of nine kids, a bit of a rough upbringing, stints of mischief, and not-so-great life decisions – that’s how Wahlberg’s story kicked off. Today, however, that same Mark has become one of the Hollywood’s most versatile and craved-after actors. He’s not just a pretty face on the silver screen, he’s also a shrewd entrepreneur who knows the ins and outs of the investment game.

    NameMark Robert Michael Wahlberg
    ProfessionActor, Producer, Businessman
    Net Worth$400 million
    BirthplaceBoston, Massachusetts, USA
    BirthdayJune 5, 1971 (Gemini)
    NationalityAmerican
    Height5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
    Relationship StatusMarried to Rhea Durham

    From ‘Marky Mark’ to Hollywood: Boogieing along the road to stardom

    Packed into a three-bedroom apartment with nine siblings in the heart of Boston, Mark Wahlberg lived the stuff of chaotic family sitcoms. Born on June 5, 1971, he was the wildcard in the large family of Alma Elaine and Donald Edward Wahlberg. Mark was only 11 when his folks broke up, and was forced to live with that many siblings in a small space. It was in this chaos and struggle that Mark found his springboard to stardom.

    Teenage years? Rough ride, indeed. Mark quit high school at 14, mixed himself up with petty crimes and drugs, and inevitably, by 16, he was imprisoned for assault. But Mark wasn’t about to be another statistic. His 50 days behind bars turned out to be the wake-up call that changed everything for him. He worked out. Like, really worked out. This not only changed his look but was the jumping-off point for his epic transformation. For Mark, it was a no brainer — he needed a 360-degree change of scenes.

    The first flash of fame came thanks to big brother Donnie, who was a hit with the boy-band New Kids on the Block. Under his brother’s tutelage, Mark launched his own music career. ‘Marky Mark’ was born and, along with his band the Funky Bunch, dropped the album, Music for the People. With hits like “Good Vibrations” and “Wildside” under his belt, Marky was on a roll (source). As if rocking the music scene wasn’t enough, his new body-builder physique caught the attention of Calvin Klein. And voila, he was the new face (and abs!) of their underwear line.

    Reaping Rewards: Mark transforms box office success into cash

    Mark Wahlberg can count $400 million in his bank, thanks to his talents in front of the camera. Whether it’s comedy or drama, the man can do it all. Remember the laugh-riot Ted in 2012? Mark stashed away a nice $7.5 million from that one. And let’s not forget about 2007’s Shooter, which added $10 million to his wealth. Even the film The Fighter in 2010 scored him an extra $500,000.

    Then comes the Transformers series and suddenly, Mark’s wallet is too small! In Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014), he pocketed $17 million. The amount grew for the sequel, Transformers: The Last Knight, as rumor has it he raked in as much as $40 million.

    In 2022, Mark totally crushed it again, reportedly taking home $30 million for his role in Uncharted alongside A-listers Tom Holland and Antonio Banderas. Plus, his movie Spenser Confidential was a Netflix hit, reportedly bumping his 2020 earnings by $58 million. With all these big gigs, he’s quickly climbed the ranks to become one of Hollywood’s top-earning stars.

    Branching Out: Mark’s earnings beyond the silver screen

    Mark Wahlberg isn’t just a Hollywood heartthrob, he has a number of interests that range across a number of industries. At times, he’s a top executive; at others, an investment whiz.

    How about this gem? Mark was reportedly banking up to $3 million a year as an executive producer on HBO’s “Entourage”. That show was on the air for a hefty eight years and even spawned its own movie in 2015. Wahlberg’s pocket change just from this gig is guessed to be around $24 million.

    And here’s a curveball. Despite having a chiselled bod and advocating hours spent daily in the gym, Mark has thrown in with his brothers Donnie and Paul to own Wahlburgers. They started with a humble little diner over in Massachusetts and have since turned it into a legit Boston franchise. They even got their own reality show, “Wahlburgers”, that aired from 2014 to 2019. Not only does this joint bring in the bucks, it’s also got Mark some serious business cred (plus, he gets to spend time with his family, we presume).

    Fancy a workout with a Wahlberg twist? In 2019, Mark pumped up a cool $110 million into F45, a killer fitness company based in Austin, Texas. Now this is more in line with the buffed-up Mark Wahlberg we’ve come to know and love! This move just goes to show that Wahlberg’s not just an actor/producer/burger guy, but a real-deal business rockstar, finding and investing in golden opportunities.

    Oh, and when he’s not getting fit himself, he’s watching others’ athletics. In 2013, he bought into the Barbados Royals, a slick cricket team in the Caribbean Premier League. The move shows he’s not only a sports fan but a business wizard who knows how to make a buck from his passions.

    Asset Accumulation and Philanthropy: Splurging and giving back

    Mark Wahlberg’s bank account isn’t shy of a few zeros, and he’s got some pretty sweet toys to show for it, too. From swanky real estate to super cool cars, Wahlberg’s money mountain is on full display.

    First stop: property shop. Wahlberg didn’t hold back when he snagged a posh plot in Beverly Hills in 2009. He and his wife dropped $8.25 million and built their own castle, a French-style chateau. Over the years, this lavish crib has shot up in value and was reportedly sold in 2023 for a sweet $55 million.

    Next up, Wahlberg’s passion for flashy wheels. His car collection reads like a who’s who of luxury brands, with names like Lamborghini, Bentley, Porsche, and Rolls-Royce. Just for a show-off, he rides a 1999 Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster, 2009 Bentley Azure T, a 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, and a 2021 Mercedes-AMG One.

    But he hasn’t let his fab fortune go to his head. Wahlberg is a giving guy, and in May 2001, he started the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation. It’s all about raising money for programs to give kids a boost – the kind of work he’s into as a supporter of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.

    And that’s not all. In 2022, Wahlberg used his golf games to raise a million dollars for kids at a charity outing benefitting Beaumont Children’s Hospital’s Children’s Miracle Network at Detroit Golf Club.

    The Man Behind the Scenes: Mark Wahlberg’s personal life

    As the youngest of nine diverse siblings, Mark Wahlberg has an off-camera life that has had as many twists and turns as his movie plots.

    His family includes three big sisters: Michelle, Tracey, and the late Debbie. His brothers are led by Donnie, who can sing, act and basically do it all. Thanks to him, Mark got his first taste of the music scene. And then there’s Paul, who helps the brothers run their very own ‘Wahlburgers’ chain.

    Things sure did take a sweet turn in his love life when he met model Rhea Durham. They hit it off at a press event in 2001 and got dating the very next day (by going to church!). The cute couple have four kids: Ella Rae, Michael, Brendan Joseph, and Grace Margaret.

    A Flicker in the Starlight: Wahlberg’s controversial past

    Mark wasn’t always the big-shot movie star known the world over. Before the glitz and glam of Hollywood, Mark Wahlberg found himself in some sketchy situations. Back in ’86, Wahlberg and his friends were just 15 and already getting themselves in some serious trouble. They would go to court for harassing school kids with racial taunts.

    Two years later, Wahlberg was at it again. Jacked up on drugs, he assaulted two Vietnamese men. That landed him an attempted murder charge. He pleaded guilty to a felony assault charge, blaming it all on the drugs. But with his past racial misdoings, he was found in contempt of court and had to do 50 days behind bars. Mark always says that his prison stint was his wake-up call to clean up his act.