Overview

Mykelti Williamson, born Michael T. Williamson on March 4, 1957, is an American actor renowned for his memorable roles across film and television. He began performing at a young age, securing his first TV appearances in shows like ‘Starsky & Hutch’ and ‘Hill Street Blues’. Williamson gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Benjamin Buford ‘Bubba’ Blue in the acclaimed film ‘Forrest Gump’. His career spans diverse roles, including Detective Bobby ‘Fearless’ Smith in ‘Boomtown’, and appearances in ’24’ and ‘Justified’. Other notable film credits include ‘Free Willy’, ‘Con Air’, ‘Heat’, ‘Ali’, ‘The Final Destination’, and ‘Fences’. He studied television and film at Los Angeles City College. Williamson’s ability to deliver stirring and honest performances has solidified his reputation as a consistently proven actor in Hollywood. Beyond acting, he is an avid sports fan, enjoys restoring classic cars, and values time with his family.

What Is Mykelti Williamson’s Net Worth

Mykelti Williamson, a prominent figure in the American entertainment industry, has cultivated a successful career spanning decades. His estimated net worth is around $2 million, accumulated through various acting roles in film and television. This figure reflects his earnings from projects such as “Forrest Gump,” where he played Bubba Blue, along with other notable appearances in “Free Willy,” “Con Air,” and the TV series “Justified.” It is important to note that precise financial details about Williamson’s assets, investments, and specific income streams are not publicly available, so the $2 million figure is an estimated net worth based on publicly known roles and industry standards.

Early Career and Education

Mykelti Williamson’s journey into acting began in St. Louis, Missouri, where he was born. He began acting professionally while he was still in elementary school, showcasing an early passion for performance. After his family moved to Los Angeles, he balanced his interests in sports and acting, participating in football and basketball while continuing to pursue acting opportunities. During his school years, Williamson gained experience through appearances on various television shows, including “Starsky and Hutch,” “Hill Street Blues,” “China Beach,” and “Midnight Caller.” Although specific details on his earnings from these early roles are not publicly documented, these experiences were crucial in developing his acting skills and gaining exposure in the industry.

After graduating from high school, Williamson pursued higher education at Los Angeles City College, enrolling in the television/film program. He furthered his studies at the Gene Evans Motion Picture School, focusing on cinematography and production. While financial details regarding his tuition and any scholarships are unavailable, these educational pursuits likely contributed to a broader understanding of the film and television industry, enhancing his career prospects. Unfortunately, information about his specific academic achievements, student loans, or part-time jobs during his college years is not publicly accessible.

Film and Television Roles

Williamson’s career took off with roles in various films, starting with “Wildcats.” His breakthrough role came with “Forrest Gump,” where he played Bubba Blue, contributing significantly to his recognition and likely boosting his income. Following “Forrest Gump,” he appeared in “Waiting to Exhale,” “Con Air,” “Three Kings,” and “The Final Destination.” While specific contract details and salaries for these films are not public knowledge, actors in similar roles typically earn between $100,000 to $500,000 depending on their prominence and the film’s budget. Given “Forrest Gump’s” success, it is plausible that Williamson’s earnings from that film alone significantly contributed to his net worth.

In television, Williamson has made notable appearances in shows such as “Justified.” Actors in recurring roles on television shows can earn anywhere from a few thousand dollars per episode to tens of thousands, depending on the show’s popularity and the actor’s experience. Considering that Williamson had a prominent role in “Justified,” it is reasonable to assume that he earned a substantial income from his involvement in the series. However, precise figures on his per-episode earnings or total compensation from “Justified” are not publicly available.

Notable Performances and Earnings

Mykelti Williamson’s role as Bubba Blue in “Forrest Gump” remains one of his most iconic performances. While the exact salary he received for this role is not publicly known, it can be estimated based on the film’s budget and the actor’s prominence at the time. Supporting actors in a major film like “Forrest Gump” could earn anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on their negotiation power and the size of their role. Given the film’s widespread success, it is also possible that Williamson received residual payments over the years, further contributing to his net worth. However, specific data on these residual earnings is not available.

In addition to “Forrest Gump,” Williamson’s role in “Free Willy” also contributed to his income. Although details on his contract and compensation for “Free Willy” are not publicly accessible, the film’s popularity likely provided him with a solid paycheck. Furthermore, his appearances in “Con Air” and “Three Kings” would have added to his earnings, with potential salaries ranging from $75,000 to $250,000 per film, based on industry standards for supporting roles in similar productions. Without specific contract information, these figures remain estimations.

Current Projects and Future Prospects

As of the current date, Mykelti Williamson continues to be active in the entertainment industry. His involvement in recent projects and any future endeavors will likely impact his financial standing. However, precise details on his current income from acting engagements, investments, or other business ventures are not publicly available. Given his established career and ongoing presence in film and television, it is reasonable to assume that Williamson’s net worth will continue to evolve as he takes on new roles and explores additional opportunities.

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