What Is Burt Ward’s Net Worth?
Burt Ward, renowned for his portrayal of Robin alongside Adam West’s Batman in the iconic “Batman” TV series (1966–1968) and the 1966 film “Batman: The Movie,” has cultivated a substantial net worth of $20 million. This financial standing reflects a career spanning over 35 acting credits, coupled with entrepreneurial ventures and family connections. While specific details regarding the breakdown of Ward’s net worth into acting income, business investments, or other ventures aren’t publicly available, his multifaceted career contributes to his overall financial success.
Early Career and “Batman” Era
Born Bert John Gervis Jr. on July 6, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, Burt Ward’s early life laid the groundwork for his future success. His father’s ownership of “Rhapsody On Ice,” a traveling ice show, exposed Ward to the entertainment industry from a young age. As a child, he garnered attention as a professional ice skater, even being featured in “Strange as It Seems” magazine at the tender age of 2. Ward’s foray into acting began after meeting producer David Saul, who facilitated his connection with an agent. At 19, he secured an interview at 20th Century Fox Studios, leading to a screen test with Adam West and ultimately, his defining role as Robin/Dick Grayson in the “Batman” series.
During his stint on “Batman” from 1966 to 1968, Ward’s initial salary was $350 per week. The show, airing 120 episodes over three seasons, propelled him to national recognition. In addition to the TV series, Ward reprised his role in the 1966 “Batman: The Movie,” further solidifying his association with the character. While specific financial details regarding his earnings from the “Batman” franchise are not publicly accessible, the show’s popularity undoubtedly contributed significantly to his early financial success. Moreover, Ward’s commitment to performing some of his own stunts on “Batman” underscores his dedication to the role, albeit with occasional trips to the emergency room.
Post-“Batman” Career and Ventures
Following his role on Batman, Burt Ward took on a variety of acting roles. In 1970 he appeared in the horror movie Scream, Evelyn, Scream!, and in 1984 he appeared in the TV movie High School U.S.A. While the specific financial details of these projects are unavailable, they mark Ward’s continued presence in the entertainment industry. In 1985, he was honored by DC Comics in the publication “Fifty Who Made DC Great”. In 1990, Burt appeared in four films, Smoothtalker, Kill Crazy, Cyber-C.H.I.C., and The Girl I Want. Later, in 1991, he starred in Virgin High. In 2001, Ward launched Boy Wonder Visual Effects, Inc, although it has since closed.
Beyond acting, Ward’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch Boy Wonder Visual Effects, Inc. in 2001, indicating a diversification of his income streams. While this venture has since closed, its establishment reflects Ward’s proactive approach to generating income beyond acting roles. Details regarding the financial performance of Boy Wonder Visual Effects, Inc. are not publicly available.
Burt Ward’s continues to make appearances in various television shows and movies. He lent his voice to SpongeBob SquarePants in 2010, Futurama in 2013, and the “Robot Chicken DC Comics Special 3: Magical Friendship” in 2015, and he appeared in the supernatural drama Heaven & Hell in 2018. Burt has appeared at numerous conventions, including Dragon Con, Stan Lee’s Los Angeles Comic Con, and Wizard World, and in 2014, he reunited with Adam West at Comic-Con in San Diego to celebrate the DVD release of “Batman: The Complete Television Series.” Ward’s continuous involvement in the entertainment industry is a consistent source of income that has supported his $20 million net worth.
Marriage to Tracy Posner and Animal Rescue Efforts
Burt Ward’s marriage to Tracy Posner, daughter of business tycoon Victor Posner, introduces another dimension to his financial landscape. Victor Posner, a pioneer of leveraged buyouts (LBOs), amassed an estimated net worth of $600 million during his lifetime. While Tracy Posner’s inheritance or direct financial contributions to Burt Ward’s net worth are not publicly detailed, the family’s affluence has undoubtedly facilitated their philanthropic endeavors.
Notably, Burt and Tracy Posner co-founded Gentle Giants Rescue and Adoptions, Inc. in 1994, described as the “largest giant breed dog rescue in the world.” The couple’s dedication to animal welfare extends to operating a dog food company called Gentle Giants, with Ward claiming that their care and feeding program can significantly extend the lifespan of dogs. While the specific financial dynamics of the Gentle Giants pet food company are not publicly disclosed, its operation suggests another avenue of income generation for the couple, alongside their philanthropic efforts. The couple has saved more than 15,000 dogs.
Awards and Recognition
Burt Ward’s contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized through various accolades. In 2004 and 2005, he shared TV Land Awards with Adam West for Favorite Crimestopper Duo and Favorite Crimestopper, respectively. In 2014, Ward received Comic-Con International’s Inkpot Award, and in 2020, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. These accolades, while not directly contributing to his net worth in a monetary sense, enhance his public profile and potentially lead to further opportunities in the entertainment industry. The Hollywood Walk of Fame Star helps to preserve Burt Ward’s legacy in the industry.