Drew Carey, a legendary comedian, actor, and game show host, has established himself as an iconic figure in the world of entertainment. Famous for his self-titled sitcom “The Drew Carey Show” and as the host of “The Price Is Right,” Carey has spent decades making audiences laugh with his relatable humor and affable personality. For many curious fans, what is Drew Carey’s net worth is a question that sheds light on his incredible success, influence, and staying power in Hollywood. This in-depth biography reveals everything from his early life to his rise as a multi-millionaire entertainer.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Drew Allison Carey was born on May 23, 1958, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Beulah and Lewis Carey. Tragically, Drew’s father passed away from a brain tumor when he was just eight years old, an event that profoundly shaped his childhood. This loss left Drew, the youngest of three brothers, to grow up in challenging circumstances. His mother worked tirelessly to support the family, leaving young Drew to rely on humor books, comedy records, and cartoons for comfort.
He attended James Ford Rhodes High School, where he played the trumpet and cornet in the marching band, graduating in 1975. Drew enrolled in Kent State University but struggled academically, leading to his expulsion twice. His mental health took a turn for the worse during this time, ultimately resulting in several battles with depression and even suicide attempts.
Desperate for structure and purpose, Carey joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1980. This decision proved instrumental in shaping his character, instilling discipline, and giving him the confidence he carried into his comedy career.
The Road to Comedy Stardom
After his six years in the Marine Corps, Drew Carey decided to pursue a career in comedy. His first steps into the comedy world were in 1985, writing jokes for a radio show at the encouragement of his friend, David Lawrence. Drew soon began performing stand-up comedy at clubs in Cleveland, and his big break came in 1988 when he appeared on the TV talent competition show “Star Search.” Building on that momentum, he caught the attention of late-night audiences with appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and “Late Night with David Letterman.”
Carey’s approachable humor found a wide audience, leading to his first stand-up comedy special, “Drew Carey: Human Cartoon,” which aired on Showtime in 1994. The success of this special opened doors for acting roles, including the lead in “The Good Life,” which further showcased his comedic abilities.
Career Highlights and Accomplishments
The Drew Carey Show
Premiering in 1995, “The Drew Carey Show” became an instant hit. Set in Cleveland, the sitcom focused on Drew’s life as an assistant personnel manager at a department store. The show blended relatable humor with occasional musical numbers, earning widespread acclaim. By the height of its popularity, Carey was making history as one of the highest-paid TV actors, earning $750,000 per episode—equivalent to approximately $1 million in today’s dollars. The show ran for nine years, producing 233 episodes and cementing his status as a television legend.
Hosting “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”
While starring in his sitcom, Drew took a detour into improvisational comedy by hosting the U.S. adaptation of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Premiering in 1998, the show featured comedians creating unscripted skits and games. Drew’s natural humor and ability to connect with the audience made the show a success, running until 2006. His contributions helped solidify improv comedy’s place on American television.
The Price Is Right
When Drew Carey took over as the host of “The Price Is Right” in 2007, fans were curious whether he could match the charm of his predecessor, Bob Barker. Not only did Drew succeed, but he also brought his own warmth and comedic flair to the legendary game show. More than fifteen years later, he remains at the helm, earning a staggering $12.5 million annually—contributing significantly to what is Drew Carey’s net worth.
What Is Drew Carey’s Net Worth?
Currently, Drew Carey’s net worth is estimated at $165 million. Much of his wealth comes from his successful television career, spanning decades of acting, producing, and hosting. With a steady annual income of $12.5 million from “The Price Is Right” and earnings from past projects, Drew ranks among the highest-paid TV personalities in the world.
Key Financial Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Drew Allison Carey |
| Date of Birth | May 23, 1958 |
| Birthplace | Cleveland, Ohio |
| Profession | Comedian, Actor, Game Show Host |
| Net Worth | $165 million |
| Annual Salary | $12.5 million (“The Price Is Right”) |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 meters) |
| Key Projects | “The Drew Carey Show,” “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” |
| Seattle Sounders Stake | 7.5% ownership, valued at $51 million |
Business Ventures and Other Pursuits
Beyond comedy and game shows, Drew Carey is an entrepreneur with diverse interests. He owns a 7.5% stake in the Major League Soccer team Seattle Sounders FC, a venture now valued at approximately $51 million. He is also an active philanthropist, frequently donating to libraries and other social causes. An advocate of Libertarian ideals, Drew has used his platform to promote individual freedoms and charitable giving.
Personal Life and Challenges
Though Drew Carey’s life appears to be all laughs, he has faced personal struggles. From coping with the loss of his father to overcoming depression, Carey has battled internal and external challenges. He was previously engaged twice, most recently to therapist Amie Harwick in 2018, whose tragic death in 2020 deeply affected him.
Despite his difficulties, Carey remains a resilient figure, demonstrating how someone can rise from adversity to achieve immense success. His story of overcoming depression and living a life devoted to laughter continues to inspire many fans.
Awards and Recognition
Carey has received numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame awarded in 2003. His work with “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” and “The Drew Carey Show” has earned him critical acclaim, while his tenure at “The Price Is Right” solidifies his legacy as one of TV’s most beloved hosts.
Legacy of Drew Carey
What truly sets Drew Carey apart is his versatility. Whether he is making viewers laugh through sitcoms, hosting live game shows, or investing in sports, Carey has constantly reinvented himself. What is Drew Carey’s net worth, then, is not merely a figure—it’s a testament to his hard work, enduring popularity, and ability to connect with people.
