Net Worth Ranker
What Is Katt Williams’ Net Worth?
Katt Williams, born Micah Sierra Williams on September 2, 1971, boasts a diverse career as an American comedian, rapper, and actor. His estimated net worth stands at $20 million, reflecting his success in various entertainment avenues.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Williams spent his formative years in Dayton, Ohio. Raised by politically and socially active parents, he excelled academically, receiving high grades and various academic honors. At the age of 13, he sought emancipation from his parents and relocated to Florida. To support himself, he worked as a street vendor. He initiated his comedy journey in Cincinnati’s Avondale neighborhood, gaining access to clubs through the comedians’ entrance despite being underage. Transitioning to San Francisco in his late teens, he refined his stand-up act at local nightclubs, marking the early stages of his comedy career.
Comedy Career: From BET to HBO and Netflix
During the late 1990s, Williams established himself as a stand-up comedian in San Francisco, performing at venues such as the Hollywood Park Casino, The Icehouse, and The Improv. His stand-up performances led to regular appearances on BET stand-up programs, including “Comic View.” His comedy often revolves around themes such as Michael Jackson, middle-American evangelism, Martha Stewart’s incarceration, and racial ironies in America. His first comedy special, “Katt Williams Live: Let a Playa Play,” aired in 2006. Later that year, he debuted on HBO with “The Pimp Chronicles, Pt. 1.” Mainstream recognition came with the critically acclaimed film “American Hustle” in 2007. In 2008, he released his second HBO special, “It’s Pimpin’ Pimpin’,” which featured more politically charged material. That same year, his comedy tour was recognized by “Billboard” as the best of the year. After a four-year break, he returned to stand-up in 2012 with “Kattpacalypse,” his third HBO comedy special. His “Growth Spurt” tour in 2013 preceded the release of his fourth HBO comedy special, “Katt Williams: Priceless: Afterlife,” directed by Spike Lee. Williams ventured into Netflix with his comedy special “Great America” in 2018, filmed in Jacksonville, Florida. In 2022, “World War III” was released on Netflix, further solidifying his presence in the comedy scene. In 2024, Williams’ comedy tour reportedly grossed $35 million, marking it as one of the top-grossing tours of the year, with 400,000 tickets sold across 60 shows. This significant income boost likely impacts his overall net worth.
Film and Television Career
Williams’s acting career began in 2002 with a role on “NYPD Blue.” He gained prominence on MTV’s “Wild ‘n Out” from seasons 1 to 4 and appeared in Nick Cannon’s “Gigolo” music video in 2003. He also played Bobby Shaw on ABC’s “My Wife and Kids.” As roastmaster for “Comedy Central Roast of Flavor Flav,” Williams further expanded his television presence. In 2018, he won an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his role on “Atlanta.” His film debut was in “Friday After Next” (2002), where he played Money Mike. Supporting roles followed in films such as “Ganked” (2005), “Norbit” (2007), “The Perfect Holiday” (2007), “Internet Dating” (2008), “Lonely Street” (2008), and “First Sunday” (2008). Later film appearances included “Scary Movie 5” (2013), “Father Figures” (2017), “2 Minutes of Fame” (2020), “The House Next Door: Meet the Blacks 2” (2021), and “For the Love of Money” (2021). These roles, especially his earlier work in films like “Friday After Next,” played a significant role in establishing his name and increasing his early earnings. Each role would have come with a negotiated salary, contributing to his net worth accumulation over time.
Allegations of Embezzlement and Financial Matters
In a June 2019 interview with Jemele Hill, Williams claimed to have lost $59 million due to embezzlement by former employees. The alleged scheme was uncovered during a Department of Justice investigation. Williams stated that after discovering the crimes, he terminated the employees, who then attempted to blackmail him. He also mentioned that authorities initially suspected him of money laundering. He also stated that his most recent Netflix special earned him more than his listed net worth. He also claimed to make $100k whenever he does a standup show in a “rinky dink town,” and whenever he does make that much, he gives $10k to a local charity. He also claimed to have “turned down $50 million four times” during his career to maintain his integrity. Despite these financial setbacks, Williams maintains a residence in Lawrenceville, Georgia, which he reportedly purchased in 2013 for $235,000.
Controversies and Legal Issues
Williams has faced numerous legal issues throughout his career. In November 2006, he was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport for carrying a stolen gun, eventually pleading no contest to a misdemeanor and receiving three years’ probation. In June 2011, he was arrested for allegedly assaulting a tractor driver, and in November 2012, he was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly beating a man with a bottle on his tour bus. These legal entanglements can impact earnings due to legal fees, cancelled performances, and damage to reputation, all affecting his net worth.
