Net Worth Ranker
What Is Will Ferrell’s Net Worth?
Will Ferrell, a celebrated figure in American comedy, acting, and writing, has amassed a considerable net worth of $160 million. This financial achievement is a testament to his successful career spanning television, film, and production ventures.
Early Career and “Saturday Night Live” Success
Born John William Ferrell on July 16, 1967, in Irvine, California, Will Ferrell’s early life provided the foundation for his comedic sensibilities. Growing up in suburban California, he attended Culverdale Elementary and later University High School, where he participated in various activities, including football, basketball, and soccer. His interest in acting emerged during his high school years, leading him to create comic voices for school announcements and perform skits in talent shows.
Ferrell’s formal education continued at the University of Southern California, where he pursued a degree in Sports Information. Despite his academic focus, he remained active in campus pranks and comedic endeavors. After graduating in 1990, he briefly explored stand-up comedy before joining The Groundlings in 1994, a Los Angeles-based comedy/improvisation group. This pivotal move honed his improvisation skills and paved the way for his breakthrough role on “Saturday Night Live” (SNL).
From 1995 to 2002, Ferrell became a prominent cast member on “SNL,” revitalizing the show’s ratings and popularity. His memorable impersonations of figures like George W. Bush, Harry Caray, and Alex Trebek, alongside original characters such as Gene Frenkle and Steve Butabi, solidified his status as a comedic force. By 2001, his salary reached $17,500 per episode, totaling $367,500 per season, marking him as the highest-paid “SNL” cast member at the time. His contributions to “SNL” were so significant that he was later voted the best cast member of all time in a 2014 poll conducted by the show.
Film Career and Salary Highlights
During his tenure on “SNL,” Ferrell also appeared in several films, including “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery” (1997), “Superstar” (1999), and “Zoolander” (2001). However, his film career truly took off after leaving “SNL,” with his first starring role in the 2003 comedy “Old School,” where he played Frank “The Tank” Ricard. The role earned him critical acclaim and an MTV Movie Award nomination for Best Comedic Performance. Later that year, he starred in “Elf,” which became a holiday classic and further cemented his reputation as a leading comedic actor.
Ferrell’s subsequent film roles in “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” (2004), “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” (2006), “Blades of Glory” (2007), and “Step Brothers” (2008) solidified his status as a box-office draw. In 2005 alone, Ferrell earned an estimated $40 million. His success continued with “Talladega Nights,” which grossed $47 million in its opening weekend, marking his highest-grossing opening to date. For several of his movies, he was paid $20 million. A sample of his movies for which he was paid $20 million includes “Kicking & Screaming,” “Bewitched,” “Talladega Nights,” “Semi-Pro,” and “Land of the Lost.” In 2008, “Step Brothers,” co-starring John C. Reilly, earned $128 million worldwide. In November 2021, Ferrell revealed that he was offered $29 million to do an “Elf” sequel but turned it down.
Production Ventures and Other Endeavors
In addition to acting, Ferrell has also ventured into producing. In April 2007, he co-founded Gary Sanchez Productions with Adam McKay, a production company responsible for numerous films and television shows, including the critically acclaimed “Succession” series. Ferrell and McKay also co-founded the comedy video website Funny or Die. However, their professional relationship experienced a setback due to a disagreement over casting decisions for the Max series “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.”
Ferrell’s diverse portfolio extends beyond film and television. In January 2009, he made his Broadway debut with his one-man show, “You’re Welcome America – A Final Night with George W. Bush.” He has also lent his voice to animated films and TV shows like “Curious George” and “Family Guy.” Furthermore, he is part-owner of the Los Angeles FC soccer team, which won the MLS Cup in 2022.
Personal Life and Real Estate
Ferrell married Viveca Paulin in August 2000, whom he met in 1995 at an acting class. They have three sons: Magnus Paulin Ferrell, born in 2004; Mattias Paulin Ferrell, born in 2006; and Axel Paul Ferrell, born in 2010. The family divides their time between New York City and Orange County.
In terms of real estate, Ferrell’s primary residence in Los Angeles is a $9.9 million mansion in the Hollywood Hills, acquired from Ellen DeGeneres in 2007. This 2.3-acre property comprises multiple structures, expansive lawns, and gardens, and its current market value is estimated to be around $20 million.
