Net Worth Ranker
What Is Keshia Knight Pulliam’s Net Worth?
Keshia Knight Pulliam, the accomplished American actress, has cultivated a net worth of $2 million. This financial standing is a result of her enduring career in television and film, marked by iconic roles and strategic ventures. Her journey from a child prodigy to a seasoned performer showcases a blend of talent, strategic career decisions, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Early Career and “The Cosby Show” Impact
Born on April 9, 1979, in Newark, New Jersey, Keshia’s entry into the entertainment industry was remarkably early. At just five months old, her parents recognized her potential and introduced her to a local talent agency. By nine months, she secured a national print advertisement for Johnson & Johnson, setting the stage for her future endeavors. She was three years old when she appeared on “Sesame Street” (year information missing).
The pivotal moment in Keshia’s career arrived in 1984 when she was cast as Rudy Huxtable on “The Cosby Show.” This role not only defined her childhood but also laid the foundation for her financial success. She appeared in 177 episodes of the show, becoming a household name and one of the most beloved child actors of her time. While specific salary details from “The Cosby Show” are not publicly available, it is evident that her consistent presence over eight seasons contributed significantly to her early earnings and established her market value within the entertainment industry.
In 1985, Keshia Knight Pulliam debuted on the big screen in “The Last Dragon.” In 1987, she showcased her versatility in the TV movie “The Little Match Girl.” She also starred alongside Phylicia Rashad in “Polly” (1989) and “Polly Comin’ Home” (1990), further solidifying her presence on television. In 1987, she appeared in “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court,” further establishing her presence in made-for-TV movies.
Transition to Adult Roles and “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne”
After “The Cosby Show” concluded in 1992, Keshia strategically transitioned to adult roles, demonstrating her range as an actress. Her participation in reality shows like “The Weakest Link” in 2001 and “Fear Factor” in 2002 showcased her competitive spirit and broadened her appeal to different audiences. In 2005, she appeared in “Beauty Shop” and “The Gospel,” strategically taking roles that would lead to more opportunities.
A significant milestone in Keshia’s career post-“Cosby Show” was her role in “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne.” According to court documents from a 2012 lawsuit filed by talent agency Greene & Associates, Keshia’s salary structure for “House of Payne” evolved significantly over time. Initially, she earned $7,500 per episode. By the later seasons, her salary had increased to $20,000 per episode. With 22 episodes per season in those later years, her pre-tax earnings would have been approximately $440,000 per year. The lawsuit revealed that Greene & Associates claimed to be owed $100,000 in unpaid commissions, implying prior gross earnings of $1 million and $250,000 for future commissions.
Other Ventures and Earnings
Keshia has appeared in various films, including “Cuttin Da Mustard” (2008), “Death Toll” (2008), and “Madea Goes to Jail” (2009). She also guest-starred on “Psych” (2010) and “Guys with Kids” (2013), augmenting her income through diverse projects.
In 2015, she appeared on “The Celebrity Apprentice”, adding to her visibility, and in 2018, she participated in “Celebrity Big Brother,” which added to her income through appearance fees.
Real Estate Investments
In 2006, Keshia Knight Pulliam purchased a home in Fayetteville, Georgia, for $508,000. She sold this property in March 2016 for $500,000. While this sale resulted in a slight loss, it reflects her engagement in real estate investment as a means of wealth management.
Awards and Recognition
Keshia’s talent has been recognized through numerous awards and nominations throughout her career. In 1986, she received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for “The Cosby Show.” She earned NAACP Image Awards for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne” in 2009, 2010, and 2012, with an additional nomination in 2011. She also won in 1988 for “The Cosby Show” and was nominated in 2003 for “What About Your Friends: Weekend Getaway.” In 1991, Keshia won a Kids’ Choice Award for Favorite TV Actress for “The Cosby Show,” and she earned a People’s Choice Award for Favorite Young TV Performer in 1988.
Personal Life and Financial Considerations
Keshia’s personal life has also had financial implications. Her divorce from Edgerton Hartwell in April 2018 resulted in a child support arrangement where Hartwell was initially ordered to pay $3,000 per month. However, disputes over payments led to legal proceedings, with Keshia claiming in September 2016 that she had not received any child support payments. In April 2020, she alleged that Hartwell owed her nearly $32,000 in back child support. These legal battles underscore the complexities of financial arrangements in personal relationships.
Keshia began dating “Pride & Prejudice: Atlanta” co-star Brad James in 2019, later marrying him.
Analysis of Keshia Knight Pulliam’s Net Worth
Keshia Knight Pulliam’s $2 million net worth is a testament to her long-standing career in the entertainment industry. Her early success on “The Cosby Show” provided a strong financial foundation, while her subsequent roles in television and film, along with strategic investments, have contributed to her overall wealth. While specific details of all her financial holdings are not publicly available, her known real estate investments and earnings from “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne” offer insight into her financial portfolio.
The lawsuit involving her former talent agency provides concrete numbers regarding her earnings during her time on “House of Payne,” adding a layer of transparency to her financial situation. Furthermore, awards and recognition throughout her career have enhanced her marketability and ability to negotiate favorable contracts, contributing to her financial success. The role of Rudy Huxtable has provided income in the form of residuals and the steady work on ‘House of Payne’ has assisted in making her net worth what it is today.
