Overview

Timothy Lee Reid Sr. (born December 19, 1944) is an American actor, comedian, and director, gaining fame for his roles in prime-time television. He is best known for his roles in prime time American television programs, such as Venus Flytrap on WKRP in Cincinnati (1978–82), Marcel "Downtown" Brown on Simon & Simon (1983–87), Ray Campbell on Sister, Sister (1994–99) and William Barnett on That '70s Show (2004–06). Reid also starred in a CBS series, Frank's Place, as a professor who inherits a Louisiana restaurant. Beyond acting, Reid has also directed and produced films, including "Once Upon a Time… When We Were Colored." He is the founder and president of Legacy Media Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to training emerging filmmakers. He graduated from Norfolk State University with a degree in Business Administration. Before fully committing to his entertainment career, Reid worked for DuPont Corporation. He initially gained recognition as part of the comedic duo Tim and Tom.

Legacy Media Institute

Founder and President

What Is Tim Reid’s Net Worth?

As of today, March 26, 2025, Tim Reid’s net worth is estimated to be $3 million. This valuation encompasses his earnings as an actor, comedian, and director, accumulated over a career spanning several decades. While specific breakdowns of his income sources are not publicly available, we can infer that a significant portion of his net worth stems from his work in television, given his extensive resume of starring roles and recurring appearances.

Early Career and Television Successes

Tim Reid’s career took off with his role as Venus Flytrap on the CBS sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati,” which aired from 1978 to 1982. While specific salary details from that period are not publicly accessible, a starring role in a network sitcom during that era would have provided a steady income stream. Subsequently, Reid secured another starring role as Michael Horne in the TV series “Teachers Only” in 1983. His role as Lt. Marcel “Downtown” Brown on “Simon & Simon,” which ran from 1983 to 1987, was another significant contributor to his earnings. Again, the exact compensation figures are not released, but a prominent role in a successful series like “Simon & Simon” would have substantially increased his income. The “Simon & Simon” series spanned over 156 episodes.

One of Reid’s most notable roles was as Frank Parrish in the critically acclaimed but short-lived series “Frank’s Place” (1987-1988). Although the show only aired for one season, it garnered Reid Emmy nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. While the show’s cancellation limited its long-term financial impact, the recognition and potential future opportunities that arose from the nominations likely added to his net worth indirectly. He served as executive producer for the series “Frank’s Place” from 1987 to 1988, broadening his experiences.

From 1994 to 1999, Reid starred as Ray Campbell on the popular sitcom “Sister, Sister.” Being a main cast member for five seasons would have provided a consistent and considerable income. While salary information is not disclosed, long-running sitcoms often offer actors increased compensation as the series progresses, contributing significantly to their overall net worth.

Recurring Roles and Production Work

In addition to his starring roles, Reid has had recurring roles on television series such as “Snoops,” “Highlander,” and “That ’70s Show.” Recurring roles can offer substantial income, even if the actor is not a main cast member. The frequency and length of these recurring roles would have directly influenced the financial impact on Reid’s net worth.

Reid’s experience extends beyond acting, as he served as executive producer for “Frank’s Place” from 1987 to 1988. As an executive producer, he would have earned a portion of the show’s profits, contributing to his overall income. The exact amount would depend on his contract and the show’s financial performance.

Financial Considerations and Net Worth Components

It is essential to understand the components of a celebrity’s net worth. In Tim Reid’s case, his $3 million net worth likely includes earnings from acting roles (television and film), potential residuals from past performances, income from producing credits, and any investments he may have made over the years. Residuals, which are payments made to actors for the reuse of their work, can provide a steady income stream, especially for successful shows that continue to air in syndication or streaming platforms.

While there is no publicly available information regarding Tim Reid’s real estate holdings, investments, or other assets, these would undoubtedly factor into his net worth. For instance, owning property that has appreciated in value over time would increase his net worth. Similarly, successful investments in stocks, bonds, or other ventures would contribute to his overall financial standing.

Detailed Look at Key Roles

Let’s delve into some of Tim Reid’s key roles to understand their potential impact on his net worth.

  • WKRP in Cincinnati (1978-1982): While specific salary figures are unavailable, leading roles in sitcoms during this period often commanded respectable salaries. For instance, established sitcom actors could earn anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 per episode, depending on their experience and the show’s success. Assuming Reid earned an average of $8,000 per episode, his total earnings for the series could have been around $1.1 million (approximately 137 episodes). Note that these figures are estimates and not confirmed data.
  • Simon & Simon (1983-1987): As Lt. Marcel “Downtown” Brown, Reid played a significant supporting role. Salaries for supporting cast members in successful dramas during this time could range from $3,000 to $10,000 per episode. If Reid earned an average of $6,000 per episode over the show’s 156-episode run, his total earnings would have been around $936,000. Again, this is an estimated figure.
  • Frank’s Place (1987-1988): As both the star and executive producer, Reid likely had a more significant financial stake in this series. While the show was short-lived, his dual role suggests a higher compensation package. Assuming he earned $15,000 per episode as an actor and an additional $5,000 per episode as an executive producer, his total earnings for the series (22 episodes) could have been around $440,000. Additionally, as an executive producer, he would have been entitled to a percentage of the show’s profits, although the show’s cancellation likely limited these earnings.
  • Sister, Sister (1994-1999): Playing Ray Campbell, Reid was a central figure in this successful sitcom. By the mid-1990s, salaries for leading actors in sitcoms had increased considerably. It’s plausible that Reid earned between $20,000 and $50,000 per episode. Assuming an average of $30,000 per episode over the show’s 119-episode run, his total earnings would have been around $3.57 million. This would have been a substantial contribution to his net worth.

Residual Income and Future Prospects

Beyond these primary roles, residual income from reruns and streaming platforms can contribute significantly to an actor’s long-term financial stability. Shows like “WKRP in Cincinnati,” “Simon & Simon,” and “Sister, Sister” continue to be broadcast and streamed, generating residual payments for the actors involved. The exact amount of these residuals depends on various factors, including the actor’s contract and the show’s popularity. Tim Reid’s ongoing involvement in acting and directing projects suggests that his net worth may continue to grow in the future. New roles, production opportunities, and continued residual income can all contribute to his financial success.

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