Net Worth Ranker
What Is Ben McKenzie’s Net Worth?
Ben McKenzie, an accomplished American actor, director, and writer, has accumulated a substantial net worth of $13 million. This financial standing is primarily attributed to his successful career in television and film, where he has consistently delivered compelling performances and expanded his roles to include directing and writing.
Career Highlights and Earnings
McKenzie’s breakthrough role as Ryan Atwood in the Fox series “The O.C.” (2003–2007) significantly boosted his profile and income. During the show’s run, his salary ranged from $15,000 to $25,000 per episode, contributing substantially to his early financial success. With 92 episodes aired over four seasons, the total earnings from this role alone were significant, though the exact figures vary depending on the specific season and episode count.
Following “The O.C.,” McKenzie continued to build his career with the NBC/TNT crime drama “Southland” (2009–2013), where he played Ben Sherman. While specific salary details for “Southland” are not publicly available, the show’s five-season run provided a steady income stream for McKenzie.
His role as James Gordon in Fox’s “Gotham” (2014–2019) marked another high point in his career. As the lead character, McKenzie likely commanded a higher per-episode salary compared to his earlier roles. Over the show’s five seasons, he not only acted but also directed episodes such as “These Delicate and Dark Obsessions,” “One of My Three Soups,” and “13 Stitches,” and he wrote episodes like “The Demon’s Head” and “The Trial of Jim Gordon.” Directing and writing credits typically come with additional compensation, enhancing his overall earnings from the series.
In addition to his television work, McKenzie has appeared in films such as “Junebug” (2005), “88 Minutes” (2007), and “Line of Duty” (2019). While his film roles have been less frequent than his television appearances, they have contributed to his overall income. Specific earnings from these film roles are not publicly disclosed.
McKenzie’s foray into Broadway with “Grand Horizons” at the Hayes Theater in early 2020 also added to his income, though the exact amount is not publicly known. Broadway performances typically offer a fixed salary for the duration of the show’s run.
Real Estate Investments
In 2015, Ben McKenzie and his wife, Morena Baccarin, purchased a 1,524 square foot condo in New York City for $2.4 million. This 2-bedroom unit was later listed for $2.675 million and sold in 2019, though the final sale price remains undisclosed. The appreciation in value suggests a profitable real estate venture.
Prior to this, McKenzie owned a home in the Nichols Canyon area of Los Angeles, which he sold for nearly $1.9 million in 2015. This sale also contributed to his overall net worth.
Early Life and Education
Born Benjamin McKenzie Schenkkan on September 12, 1978, in Austin, Texas, McKenzie’s upbringing was marked by strong familial influences. His mother, Frances, is an award-winning poet, and his father, Pieter, is an attorney. He attended St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, where he played flag football with Drew Brees. McKenzie later played defensive back and wide receiver for Stephen F. Austin High School’s football team. In 1997, he graduated and enrolled at the University of Virginia, earning a degree in economics and foreign relations in 2001. While these details do not directly contribute to his net worth, they provide context to his background and formative years.
Career Beginnings
After graduating from college, McKenzie moved to New York City and engaged in off-off-Broadway productions while working part-time jobs. He performed at the Williamstown Theatre Festival in Massachusetts and participated in summer stock productions. These early roles, though not financially lucrative, provided valuable experience and exposure.
McKenzie’s move to Los Angeles at age 23 marked a turning point in his career. He initially worked as a waiter and stayed with actor Ernie Sabella. His television debut came in a 2002 episode of the CBS crime drama “The District,” followed by a guest-starring role on “JAG” (2003). These early roles paved the way for his breakout role in “The O.C.”
Recognition and Awards
In 2006, McKenzie won a Bravo Otto Germany award for Best Male TV Star. His role in “The O.C.” earned him four Teen Choice Award nominations in 2004 and 2005. In 2012, he was nominated for a Prism Award for his performance in “Southland,” and for “Gotham,” he received multiple Teen Choice Award nominations and a People’s Choice Award nomination. While awards and nominations do not directly translate to monetary gains, they enhance his reputation and career prospects.
Personal Life and Relationships
Ben McKenzie’s personal life has also been a subject of public interest. His relationship with “Gotham” co-star Morena Baccarin began in 2015. They welcomed their daughter, Frances, on March 2, 2016, and married on June 2, 2017. While these personal details do not directly affect his net worth, they provide a holistic view of his life.
Recent Activities and Cryptocurrency Criticism
In recent years, Ben McKenzie has also established himself as a critic of cryptocurrency. This new career path may involve writing, speaking engagements, and potentially consulting roles, which could contribute to his income. The exact financial impact of his cryptocurrency criticism is not publicly known, but it represents a diversification of his professional activities.
