Net Worth Ranker
What Is Art Bell’s Net Worth?
Art Bell, the renowned American broadcaster and author, best known for his paranormal-themed radio show “Coast to Coast AM,” had a net worth of approximately $10 million at the time of his death on April 13, 2018. Adjusted for inflation, his net worth in 2024 is estimated to be around $11.5 million. His wealth was accumulated through his successful radio career, book royalties, and strategic investments.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Arthur William Bell III was born on June 17, 1945, in either Jacksonville or Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, both his parents served in the United States military. Showing an early interest in radio, Bell became a licensed amateur radio operator at the age of 13. His initial call sign was KN3JOX, first listed in the Winter 1959 edition of the Radio Amateur Callbook. He soon upgraded to K3JOX, and he later held W2CKS, first listed in the Spring 1967 Callbook. Later he obtained an Amateur Extra Class license, which is the highest U.S. Federal Communications Commission amateur license class; his call sign was W6OBB. Bell also passed the Philippine amateur radio exams and became a Philippine Class A amateur radio operator with the call sign of 4F1AB. In the 1960s, Bell served in the U.S. Air Force for four years and was a medic during the Vietnam War. While stationed at Amarillo Air Force Base in Texas, he operated a pirate radio station, broadcasting rock music to his fellow GIs. After his military service, he worked as a disc jockey for KSBK, an English-language station in Okinawa, Japan. Upon returning to the U.S., Bell studied engineering and went back to radio as a board operator, before getting his own show.
The Rise of “Coast to Coast AM”
Art Bell’s career took a pivotal turn in 1988 when he and Alan Corbeth renamed a late-night political talk show on KDWN/Las Vegas, calling it “Coast to Coast AM,” and moved the broadcast to Bell’s home in Pahrump, Nevada. Initially a political call-in show, Bell shifted its focus to conspiracy theories, gun control, and other controversial topics, significantly boosting his overnight ratings. By the mid-1990s, the show embraced the paranormal, UFOs, and the occult, attracting a devoted audience. By the late 1990s, “Coast to Coast AM” reached an estimated 15 million listeners nightly. At its peak, the show was syndicated on over 500 radio stations. Bell’s studios were located in his home, leading to the catchphrase “from the Kingdom of Nye.” In 1993, syndication of the program began and reached 500 stations at its peak. Starting in 2003, Bell hosted only the weekend shows until he retired in July 2007.
Earnings and Revenue Streams
Art Bell’s primary source of income was his nationally syndicated radio show, “Coast to Coast AM.” The show generated revenue through advertising and syndication fees, significantly contributing to Bell’s wealth. In addition to his radio earnings, Bell was a successful author. His books, exploring similar themes to his radio show, added to his income. He also earned money from public speaking engagements and appearances at various events.
Investments and Assets
Art Bell was known to be a savvy investor, with investments in real estate and a diverse portfolio of stocks and bonds. These investments likely contributed to his overall net worth. He owned several properties, including his home and radio compound in Pahrump, Nevada. In 2024, Bell’s house and radio station still stand in Pahrump, Nevada. Bell purchased the house next door to his residence and converted it into his own KNYE 95.1 FM.
Retirement and Later Career
Bell semi-retired from “Coast to Coast AM” in 2003. He hosted weekend shows on Premiere Networks for four years. In 2007, he announced his retirement from weekend hosting. He occasionally served as a guest host through 2010. In 2013, he started a new nightly show, “Art Bell’s Dark Matter,” on Sirius XM Radio, which aired for six weeks. On July 20, 2015, Bell returned with a new show, “Midnight in the Desert,” on the internet Dark Matter Digital network. It also aired on 45 stations (20 of which signed on before the show started) from 9 p.m. to midnight PT. He also started transmitting on shortwave radio over WTWW on 5.085 MHz. Citing security concerns at his home in Pahrump, he permanently stepped down as host of “Midnight in the Desert” on December 11, 2015.
Personal Life and Marriages
Art Bell was married four times. His first marriage was to Sachiko Toguchi Bell Pontius from 1965 to 1968, with whom he had two children: Vincent Pontius and Lisa Minei. His second marriage was to Vickie L. Baker from 1981 to 1991, resulting in one child, Arthur William Bell IV. His third marriage was to Ramona Lee Hayes from 1991 until her death in 2006. Finally, he married Airyn Ruiz in 2006, and they had two children, Asia Rayne Bell and Alexandre William Bell. After Art Bell’s death, Airyn and their daughter, Asia Bell, were the sole beneficiaries of his will.
Legacy and Influence
Art Bell’s impact on the radio broadcasting industry is undeniable. His unique approach to late-night talk radio, focusing on the paranormal and unexplained, captivated millions of listeners. Despite his passing, his legacy continues to influence the industry, with “Coast to Coast AM” remaining a popular show.
