Net Worth Ranker
What Is Louie Rankin’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death on September 30, 2019, Louie Rankin, the Jamaican dancehall reggae artist and actor, had an estimated net worth of $400,000. However, some sources indicate his net worth was closer to $1 million. Discrepancies in reported net worth figures can often arise due to differing estimation methods and access to private financial information.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Leonard Ford in Saint Thomas Parish, Jamaica, Louie Rankin spent his formative years in the communities of Rockfort and East Kingston. Details about his family background are limited, but these vibrant communities, rich in musical heritage, profoundly influenced his artistic inclinations. Immersed in the rhythms of reggae and dancehall from a young age, Rankin’s environment nurtured his passion for music. According to a YouTube documentary, by the age of nine, he was already performing in school and anywhere he could find an audience. An opportunity arose when a sound system owned by reggae producer Jack Ruby came to his neighborhood, and young Leonard’s enthusiasm caught the eye of King Stitch, who gave him a chance on the microphone, this led him to pursue a career as a DJ. In the 1970s, his family immigrated to Toronto, Canada, settling in Eglinton West, also known as Little Jamaica. This area had a thriving Jamaican community, and Rankin became part of the foundational crew that created the reggae dancehall scene in Canada.
Music Career and “Typewriter”
Rankin’s foray into the music scene began in the late 1970s. While he released singles like “Proud That We” and “Boy George” in 1988, his breakthrough came in 1992 with the release of “Typewriter.” This single catapulted him to prominence, solidifying his status in the dancehall genre. The track’s infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide. In his lyrics, Rankin often referred to himself as the “Original Don Dada,” a term that became synonymous with his artistic identity. In 1992, Rankin released his debut album “Showdown”.
Acting Career
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Rankin ventured into acting, delivering memorable performances that showcased his versatility. In 1998, he portrayed Lennox, also known as “Ox,” in the crime drama *Belly*, sharing the screen with artists like Nas and DMX. The film *Belly* had a budget of $3 million, but made over $9 million at the box office. His compelling depiction of a Jamaican gangster earned critical acclaim and expanded his fan base. Continuing his cinematic journey, Rankin starred as Teddy Bruck Shut in the 2002 film *Shottas*, further cementing his reputation as a formidable actor. His authentic portrayals contributed to the film’s cult following and highlighted his dynamic range. Other film roles included *We Run These Streets* (2014) as Choppa, *Rainbow City* (2015) as Leroy Lucky Johnson (also associate producer), and the short film *Q* (2015) as Radigan.
Income Sources and Assets
Louie Rankin’s income stemmed from his endeavors in music and film, with “Typewriter” and his notable acting roles contributing significantly to his earnings. While specific details about his assets remain undisclosed, his lifestyle reflected his dedication to his craft and his family. Although precise figures for his earnings from acting roles and music sales are not publicly available, his consistent work in both fields suggests a steady income stream throughout his career.
Real Estate and Personal Property
Information regarding Louie Rankin’s real estate holdings and personal property, such as houses, cars, or other valuable assets, is not widely available. Public records and media reports do not offer specific details about his ownership of property or luxury vehicles. It is known that he resided in Toronto, Canada, for several years and later lived in Hanover, Ontario at the time of his death.
Personal Life and Relationships
Rankin was married to Jewlz Sykes, with whom he shared a long-term relationship. Together, they had three daughters, and Rankin was a father to seven children in total. His family life, though private, was a cornerstone of his existence, providing him with support and inspiration throughout his career.
Death and Legacy
Louie Rankin died on September 30, 2019, in a car accident on Highway 89 near Shelburne, Ontario. The accident involved a transport truck and another vehicle. News of his death prompted tributes from fellow artists such as Nas and DJ Khaled, highlighting his impact on both the music and film industries. His influence extended beyond entertainment; he was a cultural ambassador for Jamaican music and cinema. His authentic representations of Jamaican characters in film introduced global audiences to the nuances of the island’s culture.
Posthumous Events
Following his death, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by Jewlz Sykes, his wife and executive assistant, to raise $30,000 to support their children’s education and assist with funeral expenses. The campaign raised $11,500. This indicates that despite his career success, his immediate family required financial assistance after his passing. According to the GoFundMe account, Louie Rankin left behind one-year-old twin daughters; a three-year-old daughter and two step-children, ages eight and 11.
