Net Worth Ranker
What Is Billy Porter’s Net Worth?
As of February 2025, Billy Porter’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This figure is compiled from his extensive career across Broadway, television, film, music, and writing. While specific breakdowns of his earnings from each sector aren’t publicly available, we can examine his career milestones to understand how his net worth has evolved.
Early Career and Broadway Success
Billy Porter’s journey began in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he was born on September 21, 1969, as William Ellis Porter II. He honed his talents at Reizenstein Middle School, Allderdice High School, and Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts School. He furthered his education at Carnegie Mellon University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama, and later enrolled in the Professional Program in Screenwriting at UCLA. These formative years laid the groundwork for his diverse career.
Porter’s early career included summer performances at Kennywood amusement park from 1985 to 1987, where he entertained audiences with the groups Flash and Spirit. In 1992, he gained national attention by winning $100,000 on “Star Search.” This victory marked a pivotal moment, providing financial stability and recognition that propelled his career forward.
His Broadway career took off in the early ’90s with roles in productions such as “Miss Saigon” (1991; 1998–1999), “Five Guys Named Moe” (1992–1993), and “Grease” (1994–1998), where he played Teen Angel. Each of these roles contributed to his growing reputation and income. From 1995 to 2000, he was part of “Smokey Joe’s Cafe,” a long-running production that provided a steady income stream. However, specific salary details for these early Broadway roles are not publicly accessible.
A significant turning point in Porter’s Broadway career was his role as Lola in “Kinky Boots” (2013–2019). This performance earned him a Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Musical, along with a Drama Desk Award and an Outer Critics Circle Award. While the exact salary for his role in “Kinky Boots” remains undisclosed, lead roles in hit Broadway musicals typically command substantial salaries, significantly boosting an actor’s income. The success of “Kinky Boots” also led to increased visibility and subsequent opportunities in television and film.
In 2022–2023, Porter co-produced the musical “A Strange Loop,” which won a Tony for Best Musical in 2022. While his financial stake in the production and subsequent earnings are not detailed publicly, co-producing a Tony-winning musical would likely contribute positively to his financial portfolio.
Television and Film Roles
Porter’s transition to television and film broadened his income streams and solidified his presence in the entertainment industry. His role as Pray Tell in the FX series “Pose” (2018–2021) was a career highlight, earning him a Primetime Emmy Award in 2019. While the exact salary per episode for “Pose” is not publicly available, lead roles in critically acclaimed and award-winning television series often result in substantial compensation. The success of “Pose” also opened doors to other high-profile roles and projects.
He has accumulated over 30 acting credits, including appearances in films such as “The First Wives Club” (1996), “Like a Boss” (2020), “Cinderella” (2021), and “80 for Brady” (2023). Each film role contributes to his income, though the specific amounts vary depending on the size and scope of the role. For instance, his role as the Fabulous Godmother in “Cinderella” likely commanded a higher salary than smaller supporting roles in other films.
Porter’s television credits also include appearances in “American Horror Story: Apocalypse” (2018), “The Twilight Zone” (2020), and “That Damn Michael Che” (2021). Guest-starring roles in popular television series typically offer a fixed rate per episode, which can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the actor’s profile and the show’s budget.
In addition to acting, Porter has ventured into directing and producing. He directed and executive produced the 2022 film “Anything’s Possible” and directed an episode of the Fox series “Accused” (2023). He also produced the 2016 miniseries “Mess,” the 2022 films “Black as U R” and “A Tree of Life,” and the 2023 BET documentary series “Black + Iconic: Style God.” These roles behind the camera not only provide additional income but also allow him to exercise creative control and potentially share in the profits of these projects. However, the specific financial details of these ventures are not publicly available.
Musical Career and Published Works
Billy Porter’s musical career has been a consistent source of income and creative expression. He has released several albums, including “Billy Porter” (1997), “At the Corner of Broadway + Soul” (2005), “Billy’s Back on Broadway” (2014), and “Billy Porter Presents the Soul of Richard Rodgers” (2017). Album sales, streaming revenue, and performance royalties contribute to his overall income. However, exact sales figures and streaming numbers are not publicly disclosed.
In 1996, his song “Love Is on the Way” was featured in the hit comedy “The First Wives Club,” which provided additional exposure and royalties. He also lent his voice to the 1997 animated film “Anastasia,” which generated income through soundtrack sales and royalties.
Porter’s published memoir, “Unprotected” (2021), added another dimension to his income streams. Book sales, royalties, and potential speaking engagements related to the book contribute to his overall earnings. Bestselling memoirs can generate significant income, but the specific financial details of Porter’s book deal and sales figures are not publicly available.
Real Estate and Financial Challenges
In October 2020, Billy Porter purchased a property on Long Island for $1.4 million with his then-husband, Adam Smith. In February 2024, he listed the home for sale at $2.5 million, and it eventually sold in June 2024 for $2.2 million. This real estate transaction reflects both an investment and a potential source of income. However, the costs associated with owning and selling a property, such as mortgage payments, property taxes, and realtor fees, must be considered when assessing the financial impact of this transaction.
In August 2023, Porter publicly disclosed financial challenges stemming from the WGA and SAG strikes. He mentioned that the lack of work was forcing him to put his house up for sale. This candid admission highlights the financial vulnerability that many artists face, even those with significant success. The loss of potential income from a new movie and television show starting in September further exacerbated his financial situation. While these statements do not provide specific figures, they underscore the impact of industry disruptions on an artist’s financial stability.
Porter’s discussion about the streaming model and its impact on transparency and artist compensation further sheds light on the challenges faced by many in the entertainment industry. His critique of Disney CEO Bob Iger’s remarks about actors and writers demanding a living wage underscores the broader issue of income inequality within the industry. These factors collectively contribute to a complex financial landscape that affects Porter’s net worth and financial decisions.
Awards, Recognition, and Advocacy
Billy Porter’s awards and recognition have significantly enhanced his career and earning potential. His Primetime Emmy Award for “Pose” in 2019 elevated his profile and led to increased demand for his talents. Similarly, his Tony Award for “Kinky Boots” solidified his status as a leading Broadway performer.
His advocacy work and public speaking engagements also contribute to his income. In 2020, “Time” magazine included him on its list of the world’s 100 most influential people, further amplifying his voice and influence. His role as an Official Ambassador for New York Fashion Week: Mens in 2019 also reflects his broader impact on culture and fashion, which can lead to endorsement deals and other opportunities.
In September 2021, the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation honored Porter with the Elizabeth Taylor Commitment to End AIDS award, highlighting his commitment to raising awareness and supporting AIDS-related causes. Such recognition often leads to increased visibility and opportunities for partnerships and endorsements.
Personal Life and Financial Management
Billy Porter’s personal life and financial management decisions also play a role in his net worth. His marriage to Adam Smith in January 2017 and subsequent breakup in July 2023 involved financial considerations related to shared assets and potential settlements. While specific details of any financial agreements related to the breakup are not publicly available, such arrangements can impact an individual’s net worth.
In a May 2021 interview, Porter revealed that he had been diagnosed with HIV in 2007, the same year he was diagnosed with type-2 diabetes and filed for bankruptcy. These health challenges and financial difficulties likely influenced his financial decisions and priorities. While the specific details of his bankruptcy filing are not publicly available, it underscores the financial hurdles he has overcome throughout his career.
Porter’s open discussion about race and white supremacy in a 2020 “Vanity Fair” interview reflects his broader commitment to social justice and equality. While these statements do not directly impact his net worth, they reflect his values and influence, which can indirectly affect his career and financial opportunities.
