Executives

Matt Iseman Net Worth

Matt Iseman is an American comedian, actor, television host, and physician. He is best known for hosting ‘American Ninja Warrior’ and winning ‘The New Celebrity Apprentice’. Born in Denver, Colorado, on January 22, 1971, he pursued a medical career, earning a B.A. from Princeton University and an M.D. from Columbia University. He completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Colorado Hospital. After relocating to Los Angeles, Iseman transitioned to comedy, drawing on his medical experiences for stand-up routines. He joined The Groundlings improv troupe and became a full-time comedian in 2002. Besides comedy clubs, Iseman has performed for medical and health-related organizations and at USO shows in Afghanistan, South Korea, Bosnia, and Hungary. He also had a role in the film ‘Transformer 2: Revenge of the Fallen’. Iseman also hosted ‘Scream Play’, ‘Casino Night’, and ‘Live Rescue’. In 2017, he won ‘The New Celebrity Apprentice’, raising money for the Arthritis Foundation, as he was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2002.

John Landgraf Net Worth

John Landgraf is an American television executive, currently serving as the Chairman of FX Networks and FX Productions since 2005. He was born in California in May 1962 and has significantly contributed to the television industry, often referred to as the ‘Mayor of TV’ for his innovative approach to format and content. Before joining FX, Landgraf held the position of Vice President of Primetime at NBC from 1994 to 1999, overseeing the development of successful TV series such as ‘The West Wing’, ‘Friends,’ and ‘JAG’. His leadership at FX Networks has led to the popularity and critical acclaim of several shows, reshaping the television landscape, including ‘The Shield,’ ‘Nip/Tuck,’ ‘Rescue Me,’ ‘Sons of Anarchy,’ ‘Justified,’ ‘American Horror Story,’ ‘Fargo,’ ‘The Americans,’ and ‘Atlanta’. Landgraf earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Pitzer College and began his career as a freelance journalist before transitioning into film production.

Peter George Peterson Net Worth

Peter George Peterson (June 5, 1926 – March 20, 2018) was an American investment banker who served as United States Secretary of Commerce from February 29, 1972, to February 1, 1973, under the Richard Nixon administration. Peterson was also chairman and CEO of Bell & Howell from 1963 to 1971. From 1973 to 1984, he was chairman and CEO of Lehman Brothers. In 1985, he co-founded the private equity firm the Blackstone Group and served as chairman. He was also known as founder and principal funder of the Peter G. Peterson Foundation. In 2008, Peterson was ranked 149th on the “Forbes 400 Richest Americans” with a net worth of $2.8 billion. He has agreed to give at least half of his wealth to charity by signing “The Giving Pledge.”

Rosie Rivera Net Worth

Rosie Rivera is a Mexican-American television personality, businesswoman, and author. She is best known as the younger sister of the late singer Jenni Rivera. Rosie gained prominence through her appearances on reality television shows such as *I Love Jenni* and *Rica, Famosa, Latina*. Following her sister Jenni’s passing in 2012, Rosie took on the role of executor of Jenni’s estate and CEO of Jenni Rivera Enterprises, managing her sister’s legacy and finances. She is also an author, having written *My Broken Pieces: Mending the Wounds From Sexual Abuse Through Faith, Family and Love*, where she shares her personal experiences and journey of healing. Rivera is married to Abel Flores, and they have children. Rosie has made a name for herself balancing family life, business responsibilities, and her career in the entertainment industry.

Andreas Nikolaus “Niki” Lauda Net Worth

Andreas Nikolaus “Niki” Lauda (1949-2019) was an Austrian Formula One driver, motorsport executive, and aviation entrepreneur. He was a three-time Formula One World Drivers’ Champion, winning in 1975 and 1977 with Ferrari and in 1984 with McLaren. Lauda is considered one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time. Beyond racing, Lauda founded and managed three airlines: Lauda Air, Niki, and LaudaMotion. He also served as a consultant for Ferrari and team principal of Jaguar Formula One team. From 2012 until his death, Lauda was the non-executive chairman and co-owner of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport team, playing a key role in their success. He overcame a near-fatal crash in 1976, demonstrating incredible resilience and courage, becoming a sporting legend. Lauda’s impact spanned across motorsport and aviation, leaving a lasting legacy in both fields.

Cindy Barshop Net Worth

Cindy Barshop is an American businesswoman and television personality. She gained prominence as a cast member on Bravo’s ‘The Real Housewives of New York City’. Beyond reality TV, Cindy is a successful entrepreneur. She founded Completely Bare Spas, a chain specializing in hair removal and skincare. Completely Bare Spas specialized in lasting hair removal for both men and women. One of the most popular services and product they offered was Vajazzeling and other exotic embellishments for a female private body parts. After selling Completely Bare, Cindy founded VSPOT Medi Spa in 2017. VSPOT is an intimate health experience, bringing an innovative approach to women’s sexual satisfaction and health, treating changes safely and effectively, using new advances in technology for women’s intimate health. She has also developed her own line of personal hair removal care products that her clients can use at home.

Paul Buchheit Net Worth

Paul Buchheit is an American computer engineer and entrepreneur best known for creating Gmail. He developed the original prototype of Google AdSense as part of his work on Gmail and suggested Google’s former motto ‘Don’t be evil’. Buchheit was the 23rd employee at Google. After leaving Google in 2006, Buchheit started FriendFeed, which was acquired by Facebook in 2009. In 2010, Buchheit left Facebook to become a partner at the investment firm Y Combinator. He has invested in numerous startups and continues to oversee angel investments. He won the 2011 The Economist Innovation Award for the Computing and Telecommunications field. He graduated from Case Western Reserve University with a degree in computer science.

Mary Barra Net Worth

Mary Teresa Barra (born December 24, 1961) is an American businesswoman who has been the chair and chief executive officer (CEO) of General Motors since January 15, 2014. She is the first female CEO of a ‘Big Three’ automaker. Before becoming CEO, Barra was executive vice president of global product development, purchasing, and supply chain. Barra began her career at GM in 1980 as a General Motors Institute (now Kettering University) co-op student. She climbed the corporate ladder, holding multiple executive roles, including Vice President of Global Manufacturing Engineering and Senior Vice President of Global Product Development. Barra graduated from the General Motors Institute (now Kettering University) in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. She also obtained an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business in 1990. She is married to consultant Tony Barra and has two children. They reside in Northville, a suburb of Detroit, and she also owns an apartment in Downtown Detroit.

Paul Michael Teutul Jr. Net Worth

Paul Michael Teutul Jr., also known as Paul Jr., is an American motorcycle designer and television personality. He gained fame as one of the stars of the reality TV series ‘American Chopper,’ where he showcased his skills in designing and building custom motorcycles. Paul Jr. began working in his father’s steel business, Orange County Ironworks, at a young age, developing his metalworking skills. In 1999, he co-founded Orange County Choppers (OCC) with his father. As the chief designer and fabricator at OCC, Paul Jr. created some of the most iconic theme bikes. After a highly publicized departure from OCC, he founded Paul Jr. Designs (PJD). PJD specializes in custom motorcycles and product design, working with companies like Coleman. Paul Jr. has also designed custom bicycles and has authored a biography titled ‘The Build.’ His innovative designs and entrepreneurial ventures have made him a prominent figure in the custom motorcycle industry.

Dan Snyder Net Worth

Dan Snyder is an American businessman and former sports team owner. He is best known for owning the NFL’s Washington Commanders from 1999 to 2023. Snyder purchased the team, then known as the Washington Redskins, for $800 million. His tenure as owner was marked by controversy, including allegations of a toxic workplace culture and a losing record for the team. Before owning the Commanders, Snyder made his fortune through marketing and advertising. He founded Snyder Communications in 1988, which he later sold for $2 billion. In May 2023, Snyder sold the Commanders for $6 billion to a group led by Josh Harris. Beyond sports, Snyder has been involved in various business ventures, including investments in Six Flags and Johnny Rockets.

Anthony Malkin Net Worth

Anthony Edward Malkin is a prominent American businessman, born in August 1960 in New York City. He is best known as the Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Empire State Realty Trust, Inc. Malkin comes from a family with a long history in real estate, dating back to his grandfather, Lawrence A. Wien. He graduated cum laude from Harvard College in 1985. Before joining Malkin Holdings in 1989, he worked at Chemical Venture Partners, L.P. At Empire State Realty Trust, he has been instrumental in managing and modernizing iconic properties, most notably the Empire State Building. Malkin has spearheaded energy-efficiency retrofits, including a groundbreaking project at the Empire State Building in partnership with the Clinton Climate Initiative. He also leads the Malkin family office in various investments. He is actively involved in organizations such as the Urban Land Institute and the Real Estate Roundtable, where he chairs the Sustainability Policy Advisory Committee. Malkin also lectures on real estate and family businesses at the McIntire School of Commerce at the University of Virginia.

Kim Kimble Net Worth

Kimberly Kimble, most commonly known as Kim Kimble, is a celebrity hairstylist, beauty expert, and entrepreneur. Born on December 24, 1971, in Chicago, Illinois, she has built a notable career in the hair and beauty industry. Kimble’s journey began at a young age, working in her mother’s salon. She later honed her skills at Vidal Sassoon Academy and Dudley Cosmetology University. She opened her first salon, Phaze II, in Los Angeles in 1995. Kimble’s celebrity hairstyling career took off after working on the film B.A.P.S starring Halle Berry. Since then, she has worked with numerous high-profile clients, including Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Rowland, and Zendaya. Kimble has also launched her own line of hair care products and starred in the reality television series L.A. Hair. Currently, she is the head of the hair department of the HBO television series Euphoria. Kimble is recognized for her innovative styling techniques and knowledge of hair care, and she is considered a respected figure in the beauty industry.

John Quinones Net Worth

John Quinones is an American journalist, television host, and author. Born on May 23, 1952, in San Antonio, Texas, he overcame early challenges, including learning English as a second language, to achieve a successful career in broadcast journalism. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in speech communication from St. Mary’s University and a Master of Arts from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. Quinones is best known for his work with ABC News, where he has been a correspondent for “20/20”, “Nightline”, and “Good Morning America.” He gained widespread recognition as the host of “What Would You Do?”, a hidden camera show that explores how people react to ethical dilemmas. Throughout his career, Quinones has received numerous accolades, including seven Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award, for his reporting on a wide range of social and political issues. He is also a motivational speaker and author, sharing his experiences and insights with audiences around the world. Quiñones is a respected voice in journalism, known for his dedication to social justice and human rights.

Patrick Schwarzenegger Net Worth

Patrick Arnold Shriver Schwarzenegger, born on September 18, 1993, is an American actor, model, and entrepreneur. He is the son of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver. Patrick began his acting career with minor roles in the early 2000s and has since starred in television series such as ‘The Staircase,’ ‘American Sports Story,’ and ‘The White Lotus’. He graduated from the USC Marshall School of Business with a major in business administration and a minor in cinematic arts. Besides acting, Patrick is also an entrepreneur, having founded the clothing line Project360. He has also invested in real estate, buying and selling properties in West Hollywood and Santa Monica. He is also known for his role as Golden Boy in ‘Gen V’. Patrick is engaged to model Abby Champion.

Gavin Newsom Net Worth

Gavin Newsom is an American politician and investor currently serving as the 40th governor of California since 2019. Before becoming governor, he served as the 49th Lieutenant Governor of California from 2011 to 2019 and as the 42nd Mayor of San Francisco from 2004 to 2011. Prior to his career in politics, Newsom founded PlumpJack Associates L.P. in 1991, which later expanded to include the PlumpJack Winery in 1992. Over the years, the PlumpJack Group has grown to encompass wineries, restaurants, retail stores, and the PlumpJack Inn. While Newsom divested his shares in San Francisco businesses upon becoming mayor in 2004, he has maintained his ownership stake in the PlumpJack Management Group. Newsom’s annual salary as governor is $234,000 as of December 2023. His investments include Airelle Wines Inc., Moswen LLC, and Villa Encinal Partners, each valued at over $1 million. He is also invested in Falstaff Management Group, and Balboa Cafe Partners, a restaurant in San Francisco—both investments are valued at over $1 million.

Daniel Kottke Net Worth

Daniel Kottke is an American businessman and computer engineer, best known for being a college friend of Steve Jobs and one of the first employees of Apple Inc. He met Jobs at Reed College in 1972, and they traveled together to India. In 1976, Jobs hired him to assemble hobbyist computer projects, leading to Kottke becoming a part-time employee at the newly founded Apple Computer. He debugged the Apple II family, prototyped the Apple III and Macintosh. Steve Wozniak assigned Kottke some of his own stock after Apple’s IPO. Kottke’s signature is embossed inside the case of early production Macintosh computers. He also produces and hosts the “The Next Step” Public-access television cable TV interview show in Silicon Valley which focuses on high-technology, spiritualism, holistic endeavors, the internet and social networking.

Justin Mateen Net Worth

Justin Mateen is an American internet entrepreneur best known as the co-founder and former Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Tinder, the globally popular dating application. Beyond Tinder, Mateen has established himself as a prominent early-stage tech investor and advisor, contributing to various successful startups. He is also an angel investor. Mateen graduated from the USC Marshall School of Business in 2008. In 2014, Forbes listed Mateen in Forbes 30 Under 30 and Fast Company listed him as one of the most creative people in business. After departing from Tinder, Mateen shifted his focus to venture capital and early-stage investments. He founded the JAM Fund, through which he has invested in numerous startups. As of 2024, Justin Mateen’s net worth is estimated to be around $300 million.

Jeff Beitzel Net Worth

Jeff Beitzel was an accomplished American businessman, mechanical engineer, and reality television personality. He was best known for his innovative contributions to the automotive industry and his appearance on Bravo’s hit reality TV series, *The Real Housewives of Orange County*. Beitzel began his career at the Ford Motor Company after graduating from Lehigh University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish several successful companies within the automotive industry. One of Beitzel’s most notable ventures was Quantum Fuel Systems Technology, where he served as Chief Operating Officer starting in 2005. He played a pivotal role in developing specialized vehicles such as pace cars for racing events. Jeff Beitzel died on September 13, 2008. After his death, Jeff Beitzel reportedly left Gretchen $2.5 million.

Ralph Lauren Net Worth

Ralph Lauren (born Ralph Lifshitz on October 14, 1939) is an American fashion designer, philanthropist, and billionaire businessman. He is best known for founding the Ralph Lauren Corporation. Lauren began his career designing men’s ties before expanding into a full menswear line in 1968 under the name ‘Polo.’ His designs, characterized by their preppy aesthetic and American sensibility, quickly gained popularity. In 1971, Ralph Lauren Corporation introduced a line of tailored shirts for women, featuring the Polo player emblem and opened his first freestanding store in Beverly Hills, California. Lauren stepped down as CEO of the company in September 2015 but remains executive chairman and chief creative officer. His brand has grown to include clothing, accessories, home goods, and fragrances, shaping how people perceive luxury and casual elegance. Lauren’s legacy lies in his enduring impact on modern fashion and his ability to create a brand that transcends trends.

SallyAnn Salsano Net Worth

SallyAnn Salsano (born c. 1974) is an American television producer. She is best known as the founder, Executive Producer and CEO of 495 Productions. Her company has produced several television reality shows for MTV and syndication, including Jersey Shore, Snooki & JWoww, and The Real. She began her career as an intern for TV and radio personalities Howard Stern and Sally Jessy Raphael, then worked in various producer capacities on The Bachelor, The Bachelorette, Trista & Ryan’s Wedding, Extreme Makeover: Wedding Edition, and Surprise Weddings I & II. In 2014, Salsano sold 75% of 495 Productions to Freemantle Media for more than $50 million. Salsano named her production company 495 Productions after Interstate 495.

Ladd Drummond Net Worth

Ladd Drummond is an American cattle rancher with an estimated net worth of $200 million. He is widely recognized as the husband of Ree Drummond, the renowned blogger and television personality known as The Pioneer Woman. Ladd’s wealth stems primarily from his involvement in the Drummond Land & Cattle Co., a family-owned ranching operation with deep roots in Oklahoma. The Drummond family is one of the largest landowners in the United States, owning approximately 433,000 acres. Their ranching enterprise dates back to the late 1800s when Fred Drummond, Ladd’s great-grandfather, emigrated from Scotland and established the foundation for their successful cattle business. In addition to cattle ranching, the Drummonds also generate income by leasing a portion of their land to the U.S. government for wild horse and burro protection. Ladd’s contributions extend beyond the ranch, as he is also involved in some of the businesses associated with his wife, Ree Drummond, in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, including The Merc, a restaurant and retail store.

Edgar Miles Bronfman Sr. Net Worth

Edgar Miles Bronfman (1929-2013) was a prominent Canadian-American businessman, best known for leading the Seagram Company, a distilled beverage empire founded by his family. He served as President, Treasurer, and CEO, expanding Seagram into a global entity with interests in wines, spirits, energy, and entertainment. Beyond his business achievements, Bronfman was a dedicated philanthropist and statesman. He served as President of the World Jewish Congress from 1981 to 2007, where he initiated diplomacy with the Soviet Union, advocated for Soviet Jews, and secured a significant settlement from Swiss banks for Holocaust survivors. Bronfman was also involved in various philanthropic efforts, including establishing The Samuel Bronfman Foundation and the Bronfman Youth Fellowships in Israel. He received numerous accolades for his contributions, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Devin Nunes Net Worth

Devin Gerald Nunes, born on October 1, 1973, is an American businessman and former politician. He served as the U.S. Representative for California’s 22nd congressional district from 2003 to 2022. A member of the Republican Party, Nunes held several leadership positions, most notably as the Chair of the House Intelligence Committee from 2015 to 2019. During his time in Congress, he became known for his strong support of President Donald Trump and his involvement in investigations related to Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. In December 2021, Nunes resigned from Congress to take on the role of CEO of the Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG), the company behind TRUTH Social. Prior to his career in Congress, Nunes had a background in agriculture. He earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in agriculture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and was involved in farming. His estimated net worth is $4 million, and he earns an annual salary of $1,000,000 as CEO of TMTG.

Bryan ‘Birdman’ Williams Net Worth

Bryan ‘Birdman’ Williams, also known as Baby, is an American rapper, record executive, and entrepreneur. He co-founded Cash Money Records with his brother Ronald ‘Slim’ Williams in 1991. Cash Money Records has become one of the most successful hip-hop labels in history, representing artists like Lil Wayne, Drake, and Nicki Minaj. Birdman also gained recognition as an artist, both as part of the duo Big Tymers with Mannie Fresh and as a solo artist. His influence extends beyond music, as he has ventured into fashion, spirits, and oil exploration, though not all ventures have been equally successful. Birdman’s contributions have significantly shaped the landscape of Southern hip-hop, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry and popular culture. He began restoring his birth name to Brooks from Williams in 2023.

Osmel Sousa Net Worth

Osmel Ricardo Sousa Mansilla, born on September 26, 1946, is a Cuban-Venezuelan beauty pageant entrepreneur, widely known as the former president of the Miss Venezuela Organization. Often referred to as the ‘Tsar of Beauty,’ Sousa has significantly contributed to Venezuela’s success in international beauty pageants. He began his career in advertising before joining the Venezuelan Committee of Beauty in 1969, initially advising contestants and designing nightgowns. In 1981, he became the president of the Miss Venezuela Organization, a position he held until 2018. Under his leadership, Venezuela produced numerous international beauty queens, securing seven Miss Universe titles, six Miss World winners, nine Miss International crowns, and two Miss Earth wins. Sousa’s expertise and meticulous training have earned him international recognition as one of the best beauty pageant coaches in the world. Beyond his work with Miss Venezuela, Sousa has also been involved with Mister World, Miss Argentina, and Miss Uruguay. He has also appeared as a judge on Univision’s ‘Nuestra Belleza Latina.’

Donald Trump Jr. Net Worth

Donald John Trump Jr., often nicknamed Don Jr., is an American businessman, political activist, author, and television personality. Born on December 31, 1977, he is the eldest child of Donald Trump, the former U.S. President, and Ivana Trump. He serves as a trustee and Executive Vice President of the Trump Organization, working alongside his brother Eric in managing the company’s real estate, retail, commercial, hotel, and golf interests. Donald Jr. was actively involved in his father’s presidential campaigns in both 2016 and 2020. Beyond his work with the Trump Organization, Donald Trump Jr. has ventured into media and political commentary. In 2019, he authored ‘Triggered: How the Left Thrives on Hate and Wants to Silence Us,’ and in 2020, he self-published ‘Liberal Privilege: Joe Biden and the Democrats’ Defense of the Indefensible.’ He also hosts a podcast called ‘Triggered with Don Jr.’ on Rumble. In December 2024, he joined the board of directors of PublicSquare. Also In November 2024, Trump announced that he would be joining 1789 Capital as a partner.

Reid Hoffman Net Worth

Reid Garrett Hoffman, born on August 5, 1967, is an American internet entrepreneur, venture capitalist, podcaster, and author. He’s most famously known as the co-founder and former executive chairman of LinkedIn, a professional networking platform. He is also chairman of venture capital firm Village Global, a co-founder of Inflection AI, a co-founder of Manas AI, and a board member at Arc Institute. Before LinkedIn, Hoffman gained experience at Apple Computer and PayPal, where he served as Executive Vice President. He also founded SocialNet.com, one of the earliest online social networks. Hoffman is also known for his early investments in companies like Facebook and Zynga. He is a partner at Greylock Partners. Hoffman graduated from Stanford University with a Bachelor of Science in symbolic systems and cognitive science and later earned a Master of Studies in Philosophy from Wolfson College, Oxford University. He has also been involved in political funding and advocacy, and is a member of the Bilderberg Group and the Council on Foreign Relations.

DJ Drama Net Worth

DJ Drama, born Tyree Cinque Simmons on April 22, 1978, is an American DJ, record executive, and music producer. Hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he gained prominence as the DJ for Atlanta-based rapper T.I. and through his influential mixtape series, Gangsta Grillz. These mixtapes feature a wide array of popular hip-hop artists, solidifying his role as a key figure in the mixtape scene. DJ Drama co-founded Aphilliates Music Group in 2003 and later, Generation Now in 2013, a record label that has signed notable artists such as Lil Uzi Vert and Jack Harlow. His contributions to hip-hop have earned him awards, including a Grammy for Best Rap Album in 2022 for his work with Tyler, The Creator. Beyond his musical endeavors, DJ Drama has also made appearances in film and television, showcasing his versatile talents and solidifying his legacy in the entertainment industry. He continues to evolve in the music industry and nurture the next generation of artists.

Nolan Bushnell Net Worth

Nolan Kay Bushnell, born on February 5, 1943, is an American businessman, electrical engineer, and entrepreneur widely recognized as the “father of electronic gaming.” He is best known as the founder of both Atari, Inc. (1972) and the Chuck E. Cheese’s Pizza Time Theatre chain. Bushnell’s pioneering work in the video game industry began with his creation of Computer Space in 1971, followed by the groundbreaking arcade game Pong in 1972. Atari quickly became a dominant force, revolutionizing both arcade and home gaming. In 1976, Bushnell sold Atari to Warner Communications for $28 million. Later, he founded Chuck E. Cheese’s, combining pizza and arcade games into a family entertainment concept. Over his career, Bushnell has founded more than 20 companies, demonstrating his continued entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. He has received numerous accolades, including induction into the Video Game Hall of Fame and the Consumer Electronics Association Hall of Fame.

Will Wright Net Worth

William Ralph ‘Will’ Wright, born in Atlanta, Georgia, in January 1960, is an American video game designer renowned for creating the SimCity series. He studied at Louisiana State University, Louisiana Tech, and The New School in Manhattan. His foray into game development began with ‘Raid on Bungeling Bay’ in 1984 for the Commodore 64. In 1987, Wright co-founded Maxis with Jeff Braun, leading to the creation of ‘SimCity’ in 1989, a highly influential computer game. He further designed ‘SimEarth’ and ‘SimAnt,’ along with ‘SimCity 2000’ and ‘SimCopter.’ Maxis went public in 1995, reporting revenues of $38 million. Electronic Arts (EA) acquired the company in 1997. In 2000, EA released ‘The Sims,’ which became the best-selling computer game ever. By 2006, ‘The Sims’ franchise had generated over a billion dollars for EA. Wright’s more recent title, ‘Spore,’ launched in 2008 and sold over 400,000 copies within three weeks. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Game Developers Choice Awards in 2001 and became the first game designer awarded a fellowship in the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. In 2009, Wright left EA to head ‘Stupid Fun Club,’ an entertainment think tank.