Net Worth Ranker
What Is J.B. Smoove’s Net Worth?
J.B. Smoove, the American comedian and actor renowned for his role as Leon Black on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” has amassed a substantial net worth of $6 million. This financial standing is a result of his diverse career spanning stand-up comedy, television, and film. Smoove’s journey in the entertainment industry began in the early 1990s, steadily building his reputation through various projects and culminating in his widespread recognition today. His financial success can be attributed to multiple income streams, including his work on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” various acting roles, stand-up performances, and voice acting in video games and animated series.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Born Jerry Angelo Brooks on December 18, 1965, in Plymouth, North Carolina, J.B. Smoove’s early life played a significant role in shaping his comedic persona. Moving to Mount Vernon, New York, at the age of three, he maintained strong ties to his extended family in Plymouth, who became a source of inspiration for his comedy. After graduating from Mount Vernon High School in 1983, he pursued graphic design and engineering at Norfolk State University in Virginia. Before fully embracing comedy, Smoove held a variety of jobs, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. These experiences undoubtedly provided him with a diverse perspective that enriched his comedic material. His career took off when he began performing stand-up comedy in the early 1990s, adopting the stage name J.B. Smoove. His appearance on Russell Simmons’s “Def Comedy Jam” marked a pivotal moment, bringing him into the public spotlight and paving the way for future opportunities. He continued to rise, securing recurring roles on television series such as “Everybody Hates Chris” and “Saturday Night Live,” where he also served as a writer.
Smoove’s work on “Saturday Night Live” culminated in a Writers Guild of America award in 2007, marking a significant achievement in his career. His three-year tenure on “SNL” allowed him to hone his comedic skills and gain valuable experience in the television industry. Another notable early role was his appearance in the 2001 cult comedy film “Pootie Tang,” where he served as the narrator, further solidifying his presence in the comedy world. Additionally, he had a two-year stint on the sitcom “‘Til Death,” expanding his acting repertoire. These early roles and experiences were crucial in building his foundation and reputation, ultimately contributing to his current net worth. The financial gains from these projects, while not explicitly detailed, played a significant role in his overall financial growth.
“Curb Your Enthusiasm” and Subsequent Projects
J.B. Smoove’s career reached new heights when he joined the cast of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” in its sixth season, portraying the character Leon Black. His portrayal quickly resonated with audiences, establishing him as a fan-favorite and a key component of the show’s success. Over the course of 14 years and six seasons, Smoove’s comedic timing and improvisational skills transformed Leon into an indispensable character. Initially introduced as part of the Black family who moved in with Larry David, Leon’s character stood out due to his blunt and hilarious demeanor, becoming an integral part of the series. Smoove’s portrayal is characterized by his sharp wit, confidence, and memorable catchphrases, significantly enhancing the show’s humor. His interactions with Larry David and the rest of the cast highlight a unique chemistry that has enriched the show’s narrative. The financial impact of his role on “Curb Your Enthusiasm” is substantial. While specific salary details are not publicly available, it can be inferred that his long-term involvement in the show, coupled with its success, contributed significantly to his $6 million net worth. In 2017, J.B. Smoove even authored a book in character as Leon, titled “The Book of Leon: Philosophy of a Fool,” further capitalizing on the popularity of his character.
Beyond “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Smoove has consistently pursued other projects, further diversifying his income streams. He served as a celebrity judge on a revival of “The Gong Show,” hosted by comedian Dave Attell, and was a cast member on “Cedric the Entertainer Presents.” In 2010, he hosted the Comedy Central stand-up comedy showcase “Russell Simmons Presents: Stand-Up at The El Rey.” In 2012, J.B. Smoove returned to Comedy Central to make his TV stand-up special debut with “That’s How I Dooz It.” This special likely generated revenue through viewership and sales, adding to his income. He has also taken on numerous feature film credits, appearing in movies such as “Movie 43” and “The Smurfs 2,” as well as more dramatic roles in films like “We Bought a Zoo” directed by Cameron Crowe. His work in these films contributes to his overall financial success. Additionally, Smoove’s distinctive voice can be heard in video games like “Call of Duty: Black Ops II” and “Grand Theft Auto V,” as well as in animated series such as “Harley Quinn,” “The Simpsons,” and “American Dad!” Voice acting roles, while often less visible, provide a consistent source of income. In 2014, Smoove hosted the eighth season of the stand-up comedy reality competition series “Last Comic Standing.” Hosting such a series can bring in a significant paycheck and increase public visibility, potentially leading to further opportunities. A few years later, he appeared in an episode of “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” hosted by Jerry Seinfeld, further cementing his status in the comedy world. J.B. Smoove also appeared as Santa Claus in a Christmas-themed Sia music video. The financial specifics of these projects remain undisclosed, but they collectively contribute to his overall financial stability and net worth. Additionally, Smoove has explored his culinary interests with shows like “Four Courses with J.B. Smoove” and “Hell’s Kitchen: Rookies vs Veterans.” His appearances as a talk show guest have been memorable due to his improvisational comedy skills, as well as public curiosity regarding his insights on Larry David. These various projects demonstrate his versatility and ability to generate income from multiple avenues, contributing to his $6 million net worth.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
J.B. Smoove has been married to singer Shahidah Omar since 2007, and the couple share one daughter. Unlike his character on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Smoove is known to maintain a healthy lifestyle, identifying as a vegan. Beyond his entertainment career, Smoove is actively involved in philanthropy, serving on the local Boys & Girls Club board of directors in Mount Vernon. His commitment to giving back to the community reflects his values and priorities outside of his professional endeavors. In 2019, he participated in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game at the Bojangles’ Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina, representing the “home team” alongside other North Carolina celebrities. In 2020, he was recognized for his generosity, with a “Page Six” story reporting that he left a $1,200 tip at the New York City eatery Brooklyn Chop House, while adhering to the vegan menu. These details, while not directly impacting his net worth, illustrate his lifestyle and character, which contribute to his overall public image and brand. While specific details about his personal investments or assets are not publicly available, his successful career and diverse income streams suggest that he has made sound financial decisions. It can be inferred that his $6 million net worth is the result of a combination of earnings from his work in comedy, television, and film, as well as prudent financial management and investment strategies. The exact breakdown of his assets and investments remains private, but his career trajectory and public persona indicate a stable and successful financial standing.
