Net Worth Ranker
What Is Bobby Lee’s Net Worth?
Bobby Lee, an American actor, comedian, writer, and podcaster, has cultivated a multifaceted career that contributes to his estimated net worth of $1 million. This financial standing is a result of his work across various entertainment mediums, from television and film to stand-up comedy and podcasting.
Career Highlights and Earnings
Lee’s career took off significantly with his role on the FOX sketch comedy series “MADtv,” where he was a cast member from 2001 to 2009. While specific salary details from his time on “MADtv” are not publicly available, being a main cast member on a network television show for eight years would have provided a steady and substantial income. His diverse range of acting credits, totaling over 80, include roles in films such as “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” (2004), which grossed over $119 million worldwide, “Pineapple Express” (2008), which made over $102 million, and “The Dictator” (2012), with a gross of approximately $179 million. Although his individual earnings from these films are not disclosed, these roles contribute to his overall income and recognition. He has also appeared in television series like “Animal Practice” (2012–2013) and “Magnum P.I.” (2019–present).
Beyond acting, Bobby Lee co-hosts two successful podcasts: “TigerBelly” (2015–present) and “Bad Friends” (2020–present). The earnings from podcasts vary significantly based on factors such as listenership, advertising revenue, and sponsorships. While the specific financial details of these podcasts are private, it is known that successful podcasts can generate considerable income through advertising deals, merchandise sales, and live shows. Industry estimates suggest that a podcast like “TigerBelly,” with a significant following, could earn tens of thousands of dollars per episode through advertising and sponsorships.
Lee’s stand-up comedy career also contributes to his net worth. Comedians can earn income through live performances, ticket sales, and merchandise. The specific amount earned from stand-up gigs varies depending on the venue size, ticket prices, and the comedian’s popularity. Considering his long-standing career and established fanbase, Bobby Lee likely commands a respectable fee for his comedy shows.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Robert Lee Jr. was born on September 17, 1971, in San Diego, California. His parents, Jeanie and Robert Lee, were Korean immigrants who owned clothing stores in Encinitas and Escondido. Bobby grew up in Poway, California, and attended Painted Rock Elementary School and Twin Peaks Middle School. His early life did not directly involve the entertainment industry; however, his initial foray into comedy began in 1994 when he started working at The Comedy Store in San Diego after the coffee shop he worked at closed. This led him to try stand-up comedy during one of the club’s amateur nights. His talent quickly gained recognition, and within a year, he was opening for established comedians like Carlos Mencia and Pauly Shore.
“MADtv” and Subsequent Projects
Bobby Lee’s breakthrough came in 2001 when he joined the cast of “MADtv,” becoming the show’s first Asian cast member. He was known for his characters like Bae Sung, Tank, and Yamanashi, as well as his impersonations of Connie Chung and Kim Jong-il. While the exact figures for his salary on “MADtv” are not publicly available, being a main cast member on a popular sketch comedy show for eight seasons significantly boosted his career and net worth. During his time on “MADtv,” Bobby appeared in various films, including “Pauly Shore Is Dead” (2003) and “Killer Pad” (2008). He also co-starred in the 2008 comedy “Pineapple Express,” which grossed $102.4 million at the box office. His role as Kenneth Park in 2004’s “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” and its sequel, “A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas,” further added to his filmography and income.
Television and Film Roles
After “MADtv,” Bobby Lee continued to work in television and film. He had guest roles on shows such as “Curb Your Enthusiasm” (2005), “Mind of Mencia” (2005–2006), “The League” (2009; 2014), and “Arrested Development” (2013). He also had recurring roles as Dr. Yamamoto on “Animal Practice” (2012–2013), Truman on “Love” (2016–2018), and Jim on “Magnum P.I.” (2019–present). His film appearances included “Hard Breakers” (2010), “Paul” (2011), “The Dictator” (2012), and “The Wrong Missy” (2020). While specific earnings from these roles are not disclosed, they contribute to his overall income and career stability.
In addition to live-action roles, Lee has also lent his voice to animated projects such as “Wish Dragon” (2021) and the TV series “Family Guy,” “The Awesomes,” “Nature Cat,” and “Inside Job.” Voice acting can provide a consistent stream of income, and these roles add to his diverse portfolio.
Podcast Success and Revenue
Bobby Lee co-hosts the “TigerBelly” podcast with his former girlfriend, Khalyla Kuhn, and the “Bad Friends” podcast with Andrew Santino. While the precise revenue figures for these podcasts are confidential, industry estimates and comparisons with other successful podcasts can provide some insight. For example, a podcast with a substantial listenership and consistent ad revenue can generate tens of thousands of dollars per episode. The “TigerBelly” podcast, which launched in 2015, has built a significant following and likely generates a substantial income through advertising, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. Similarly, “Bad Friends,” which started in 2020, has quickly gained popularity and likely contributes significantly to Lee’s income.
Personal Life and Challenges
Bobby Lee has been open about his struggles with addiction. He started using marijuana and methamphetamine at age 12 and heroin by age 15. He got sober at 17 after multiple rehab programs. After 12 years of sobriety, he relapsed on Vicodin and later relapsed again after his father’s death in 2019. In 2022, Bobby and his girlfriend/”TigerBelly” co-host, Khalyla Kuhn, separated after 10 years together. Despite personal challenges, Lee has maintained a successful career, showcasing resilience and determination.
Legal Matters and Business Ventures
In May 2023, Lee sued Wondery after the company cancelled a distribution and ad sales deal with “TigerBelly.” Wondery cited a “morals clause” related to a story Lee told in 2013 about using the services of “a young-looking sex worker” in Tijuana. The lawsuit alleges that “TigerBelly” did not agree to a morals clause and that Wondery was aware of the Tijuana story before signing the deal. The financial implications of this lawsuit are not publicly available, but such legal disputes can affect an individual’s net worth through legal fees and potential settlements.
While specific details on real estate assets or other investments are not publicly available, it is common for entertainers with a net worth in the millions to have diversified investments. These may include real estate, stocks, and other business ventures. Such investments would contribute to the overall financial picture of Bobby Lee.
